Take a few minutes to think about these questions in relation to your own personal health and wellness.

 Where are you now? Where do you want to be?

How do you feel now? How do you want to feel?

 Now, How will you get there?

 Let’s start with this simple yet perfect phrase – ONE DAY AT A TIME. You will get there, one day at a time. – WITH HELP.

1. Count on you: The hardest part about making a change to living a more health-focused life is taking the time to be honest with yourself about where you really are. Reflect on how you got there and then admit that change needs to occur. Once you’ve done this and said it out loud to yourself, it’s out there. By putting it out there, you bring it out into the light, drawing attention and focus to the issue and your readiness to do something about it. It’s time to take action!

2. Tell your peeps: The most important element to your self-improvement is to have support. Though some may be able to do it “on their own” there is absolutely no reason to do so. Why limit yourself to being alone with your challenge? Whether it is weight loss, improving diet, or another health-related goal, you absolutely don’t need to climb that hill solo. First, tell your family what you’re going to do and why it is important to you. Do the same with your friends or co-workers that you’re close with. If you don’t feel like sitting down with them, put it in an email. If you share your goals with them, they are way more likely to encourage and support you. Some may even decide to join you!

3. Find a #fitfam community: There are countless communities dedicated to self-improvement. Social media has exploded with support networks for weight loss and people across the globe are cheering for each other as body or behavior transformations occur. It’s really quite awesome to see people supporting complete strangers on their journey.  Instagram is amazing for this. If you’re following this blog, you are now part of the MindBodyBespoke community and I can promise you, you’ll find support here!

4. Connect with a gym/studio: If you have the financial means to join a gym or studio (Yoga, Pilates, Spin, etc), do so! With the right attitude (positive, friendly, and open) there are immediate supportive relationships awaiting you. For some this may take some extra effort but take the time to get to know the staff, teachers, and trainers at your gym. The person that checks you in, isn’t just a person that checks you in. They are part of your support system. Introduce yourself and learn their name. They will more than likely do the same. This only further enhances the environment of your gym as being YOUR community. One caveat; do take the time to research gyms and studios. There are definitely cultural vibes to each one and you’ll want a place where you feel comfortable.

5. Lastly, Buddy Up: This is truly icing on the cake. Find someone, a family member, a friend, a co-worker, anyone, and make them your workout buddy. Having someone else to help keep you accountable and on track, particularly if they have similar goals, it is incredibly helpful on your journey. Make health and fitness a social affair by doing fun things together that are associated with reaching your goals. Take classes together, cook together, read literature and discuss it together, and most importantly – celebrate your victories together. * If you are pregnant, hit up a prenatal yoga class. You are sure to find women there who will want to buddy up for walks and other activities.

Support can come in a variety of places. Whether it’s working with a coach or trainer, becoming part of a gym community, or setting up “walking” dates with your BFF, it’s all good. You’ve got to find what works for you –but remember, there’s no good reason for going after it alone. You’re more likely to have success and reach your goals with caring people supporting you every step of the way!

Feel free to comment or share below what has worked for you!