One of the biggest challenges to those of you reading this who are keen to maximise their health and fitness is the fact that it now requires you to swim against the social current!
It requires you to say no when others say yes, take the long road not the short cut, opt out not in, and constantly staying mindful with your decision making.
Almost 70% of the population in the UK are now classified as overweight or obese which means the majority of the population are not living health conscious lives or making regular health focused decisions.
Which automatically means you are in the minority if staying a healthy weight and focusing on your fitness is your goal.
We are living in a world that is focused on instant fixes, reduced human connection, increased screen time, sedentary lifestyles and processed food. None of this screams fit and healthy!
In fact, we live in what can be described as an obesagenic society, which is an environment that promotes weight gain and obesity by making unhealthy choices the easiest, most convenient, and most socially normalised options.
So if you are currently finding your journey to health and fitness challenging, thats because it is, as it demands you become an outlier instead of following the masses.
It comes with a heavy cognitive load, having to constantly make decisions that go against simple default options.
After all, it is far more difficult to say no to alcohol at a wedding or evening work functions, and having to face explaining yourself to friends, family or colleagues than to say yes.
We can also feel like we’re being difficult asking for alternative food choices.
It can feel isolating not to join in with popcorn or take away whilst watching a film, or miss an event centred around unhealthy habits.
And it takes money, time and energy to prep your meals with decent food for the week instead of eating what you get provided at work or can grab from your local Starbucks, Costa or Pret!
So firstly, well done if you are currently on a journey to improve your health and fitness!
But secondly, let’s look at 5 ways in which we can make this feel as easy as possible!
1. Be the person who suggests active meet-ups. Why not plan walks, hikes, or active hobbies instead of defaulting to food-centred activities with your friends.
2. Find your tribe of people who share similar health priorities. Spending more time with people with similar values reduces the chances of friction, or interrogation at your health conscious behaviours and instead, encourages them. This can help you feel more comfortable making health focused decisions.
3. Get comfortable saying no! Practice simple, non-defensive responses: "I'm not drinking tonight" or "I'm good with water, thanks." Remember, you don't owe anyone an explanation, but having a calm, clear and confident response can be helpful and reduce anxiety.
4. Find forms of pleasure that aren’t food or drink focused. A good book, quality time in nature, hobbies that engage your body and mind, or investing in experiences can be great alternatives.
5. Instead of feeling like you're missing out, focus on what you're gaining. Better sleep, sustained energy, weight loss, mental clarity, or simply feeling happier. Remember that most people admire discipline and consistency, even if they don't express it and you will most likely become an inspiration for those around you.
If you want more support creating a healthy lifestyle or to join a health focused community, please drop me a message HERE!
Have a great week!
Lizzie
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