3 Reasons Why You Continue to Fail at Being Fit

 

    Since the advent of the internet we live in a world where information is just a click away.  If you want a new workout routine you can just find one on Pinterest. You want a new diet you can get one from the hundreds of fitness sites that will give you the low down on anything from Keto to carb cycling. Yet, why do so many people find it so hard to achieve a fit body and establish healthy lifestyle habits? Is it a lack of information or is it deeper than that? The following are three reasons why I believe most people fail at their fitness journeys:

1.     Identity: One thing that separates humans from animals is that we have the power to choose whom we want to become at any moment.  So often when embarking on a fitness journey you look at yourself through the lens of your current body or health state. You may say things like, “I am out of shape” or “I am diabetic”. Yes, those things may be part of your current situation, but they are not who you are!  By simply seeing yourself as a fit individual you will start to try and align your actions to meet your new identity.  When you’re out to dinner you may find it harder to over eat or skip on workouts because doing so will not align with your new identity.

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2.       Burnout: Anytime we start something new we tend to overestimate our abilities and level of motivation to see things through.  I see it all the time. A new client will want a five-day workout routine, a structured meal plan, and a supplement list. At times, this works in the short run, but it’s very likely to cause burnout in the long run.  Although you may be motivated to start, life will ultimately chip away at your desire to workout five days a week and follow a rigid meal plan. For this reason, starting off with short term wins will give you the positive reinforcement you need to keep the motivation to continuously optimize your fitness goals. For Instance, committing to two days a week at the gym and removing sugary drinks may be a good place to start. Once you get the hang of that, add something else.  Remember, motivation is limited and stress is cumulative. Not overloading to start will establish the foundation of habits you need to be successful.

3.       Lone Wolf Mentality:  Today it is so easy to try and do everything on our own.  We get in the state of mind that I can just download this app or go to the gym on my own and I will be alright.  Nevertheless, this way of thinking will ultimately hinder you. Most people who achieve success will attribute their success to the help of others.  Finding a community of like-minded individuals will allow you to grow and to contribute to the group. Additionally, your community will keep you accountable and motivated.  Don’t underestimate the power of connecting with others. Whether it be hiring a fitness coach, going to group class, or simply finding a workout buddy, GET CONNECTED!

Lastly, health and fitness is a continuous journey. Aim to get just a bit better each day.  There will be times where life will throw you a curve ball, but you can choose to react differently by adopting a new identity, take it one step at a time, and rely on your community. Enjoy the process, because in the process you will learn commitment and perseverance!

Author Rudy Pinzon, MBA is a health coach and fitness expert who helps busy professionals get fit and crush it.