"M" - Motivation is the Key
by LuAnne Steininger
What one thing could you do that would improve your health?
"I don't know" is not an answer to this question." I suspect there is at least one thing we all know we could do today for improved health but don't. Some healthy habits we might want to practice are to; maintain a healthy weight, exercise, clear out clutter, spend more time outdoors, drink more water, eat more fruits and vegetables, just to name a few.
Now, what are the reasons you tell yourself that you can't do what you know would improve your attitude and health? Some common excuses might be; I've tried and know it won't work, I hate to exercise, I don't have time, I don't have the energy, it's hopeless, I'm lazy, I don't have any money, I'm in pain, why even bother to start, I've never been able to drink water, I don't like fruits and vegetables, or I just don't want to.
I'm reminded of Henry Ford's famous quote "Whether you think that you can, or that you can't, you are usually right."
So, if you are of the belief that "you can't" or if you really answered "I don't know" to the first question, you can stop reading. If you are thinking about a lifestyle change and just haven't started yet, read on.
Congratulations. You're motivated. If you are sitting on the fence, begin thinking about the pros and cons of your intended action. For example, if you have been diagnosed with diabetes, or if you have been told you are at high risk for developing diabetes, you need to find out how this chronic condition can affect your life. Once you do this, the fear of developing diabetes might motivate you to make some lifestyle changes. Even though fear can get your attention, it's important to develop some internal and positive reasons to change.
Now it's time to test the waters. Take small steps and try not to put a timeline on your intended action. If you put on 40 pounds over five or 10 years, don't set a weight loss goal of 40 pounds in one year. Take as much time as you need to find resources to take action. Monitor negative self-talk as it has an internal defeat button built in. Work through the obstacles by using problem solving techniques. Ask for help. Just begin to find out what you need to do. Don't rush into action but don't get stuck just thinking about it either.
Take action. Become confident that you can do one thing. Don't listen to the inner critic. Focus on the long term benefits and goals you have for your life. Deal with the obstacles. Keep doing the positive behavior for at least six months.
Oops. You slipped back into old habits and/or you stopped doing the new ones. Recommit to what your internal motivation was in the initial stages of change. Allow yourself to slip. Don't let that inner critic beat you up. Identify what the triggers and obstacles were that had you slip. Create a plan to overcome those triggers and obstacles.
Repeat the cycle. Life gives us chances to start over anytime.
Here are some community classes to help you get started;
Healthy Aging Class for People with Chronic Conditions
If you are 55 or older and have a chronic condition, such as arthritis, heart or lung conditions, high blood pressure, cancer or other chronic condition, Saint Mary's is offering free, six-week workshops that can help you take charge of your disease. Healthy Aging: Up2Me was developed at Stanford University and offers participants tools and skills to manage their chronic disease through exercise techniques, communication, setting personal goals, problem solving, learning about community resources, and how to optimize their relationship with the health care provider. Additionally, all participants will receive a copy of the book, Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions upon completion the program. All classes are taught by trained leaders.
Classes are scheduled each month through the end of 2011 at various locations around the community. Call 775- 770-7100 or visit https://www.saintmarysreno.org/Classes_ And_Events/index.htm to register or for more information.
Osher Lifelong Learning, OLLI, will be offering a 6-week workshop beginning Wednesday, February 1, 2012 from 2 – 4:30 p.m. This class is open to OLLI members only. Check out OLLI membership at www.olli.unr.edu or call 784-8053.