Re: Changing Behaviors

[Guest guest]

I've been following the chain related to the topic of change. Although my

involvement in

the fitness/wellness arena has come later in life, I can tell you from a

fundamental

perspective that the issues surrounding the ability to change can be addressed

in a very

logical fashion...of course, that doesn't mean it is easy to accomplish. If you

look at human

behavior from a purely logical view...we are one of the few species that acts

based upon

knowledge and understanding (primarily), as opposed to instinct. Given that we

as humans

have this unique ability, the first step is true understanding. For me, like

many others, the

desire to change can be predicated upon some dramatic experience (in my case, I

was on

deaths doorstep). When confronted with the ugly realizations associated with my

health

issues a few years back, I decided I had nothing to lose and everything to gain

by

attempting to restore " balance " with regards to my health and wellness.

For others, who may not have experienced such an event, there still is the

inherent ability

to make the choice...

That part is easy. When speaking to groups or individuals about my story, I

frequently ask

if they brushed their teeth today? Often met with an odd look, the answer is

" yes " . I then

ask them why they did? The responses vary, but in general indicate they did

because

that's what they do everyday, they are supposed to. Creating change with

regards to

exercise, nutrition, etc..is no different. Make the choice and then you

continue because

" you are supposed to " . Again, that doesn't always make it easy, but it is the

first step.

And, if you can get someone to stop for a moment, reflect, be logical (i.e don't

fall prey to

our societal views and corporate marketing), then an individual can begin to

make choices

and transitions.

In the case of personal trainers...it is support, involvement, continual

communication,

enforcement and modification that will compliment the " shift " one makes. As far

as

measurement, that has to be individualized. For some, it will come easier...and

others will

struggle. But, the measurement needs to be specific to the individual and their

current

goals. Once an accomplishment is made, it is far easier to make antoher

" change " .

Change is a constant. Reminding, and in many cases teaching people that the

power to

change/choose is their own is key. It's built into our DNA.

Best,

Josh Neimark

> >

>

> > One point - we aren't interested in measuring vague concepts of

> > 'motivation'. My interest is actual behavioural change. So my measure

> > is very simple - activity (using the Godin instrument). And the

> > problem is defined simply - 75% of the Canadian population is not

> > active enough for health benefits.

> >

>

> >

>