360 Degree Health, Part 5: COMMUNITY

Haven’t read part 4? Go here: Part 4: ACCEPTANCE.

For almost all of us, the truth is that we can't reasonably face all of these barriers without support. We have loved ones gunning for us behind the scenes. Maybe a group at work all on the same journey, Crossfit coaches and fellow members, online support groups, family, life coaches, therapists, nutritionists, best friends...the types of community that exist to encourage us and help us along are endless. And they're so important.

Photo by Tim Marshall

How else can you voice your secrets? Or learn about different strategies in overcoming a bad habit? How else can you push yourself past your limits, or experience competitive edge? Where will you find motivation when it seems to dip from time to time? Who's there to help brighten things when you're feeling down? 

A lack of community makes it difficult to maintain what you've decided to do. The hardest moments are a month in when the shiny newness wears off, the weight loss slows, the energy seems to wain, the cravings make their way to the forefront of your mind seemingly every moment of the day. Those are the times when our acceptance and strength of mind are tested. But we don't have to endure them alone. In fact, I'd encourage you avoid that at all costs.

Photo by Helena Lopes

Who can you call in those moments? Set that expectation ahead of time so that your best friend/ coach/ gym buddy can talk you off the ledge. Realizing you can make the choice against the bad habit, and then doing it, is like a visit to the gym for your resolve. It strengthens bit by bit every time you make the healthy choice, until your resolve is built like The Rock (yes, even the pretty face!). Having a network of support will ensure that you eventually have killer willpower!

After getting to know ourselves and our goals, and accepting who we are and what we're willing to do, this journey is all about maintenance. After facing the last 4 barriers, you've stripped away all of the old defenses and thought patterns. You've looked at your life and chosen that you love who you are, you deserve better, and you've accepted the work you must do to make it happen. There aren't any illusions left, no false truths to hide behind. 

My heart is exploding with excitement for you. What can/ WILL your best life look like? Let’s get started and find out.

xo