Well, they say everybody needs somebody and that’s never been more true than when you’re trying to make lifestyle changes. You’re in your sidekick phase of the Progress Journey and the most important thing right now is social connection. You’ve taken the first steps but now you need someone or a lot of someone’s on your side to share the journey with. Find people who support you, challenge you and help keep you accountable. These connections as a sidekick don’t have to be long, maybe just a few seconds or a minute or two is enough for you to get the direction or support you need to keep moving. It could be a coach, partner or friend. It just helps to have someone know what you are striving for and why it’s important and where you are up to.
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Emily wants to improve her nutrition. She’s struggling to stay on track with her healthy eating habits and is constantly buying takeout and eating way too much sugar than she wants to. Em decides to recruit her partner as her sidekick. They make a plan to cook meals together and keep each other accountable for sticking to their healthy eating goals. Emily also finds a local nutrition group on social media where she can connect with other people who have similar goals. This support system helps her stay motivated and on track with her healthy eating habits.
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Alex wants to improve their fitness. They feel intimidated going to the gym alone, so they decide to find a workout buddy. Alex asks a co-worker who has similar fitness goals to be their sidekick. They start going to the gym together during lunch breaks and encouraging each other to push harder during their workouts. This support system not only helps Alex stay accountable but also makes their workouts more enjoyable and social.
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Jack is in the Sidekick phase and is working on his mental health. He’s dealing with anxiety and depression and feels isolated. Jack decides to join a support group for people with mental health issues. He finds a group that meets online and connects with other people who are going through similar experiences. Jack starts attending the meetings regularly and finds comfort in sharing his struggles with people who understand. He also starts building connections with some of the members outside of the meetings and starts feeling less isolated and more supported in his journey towards better mental health.
CHALLENGES YOU MIGHT FACE
We understand that making lifestyle changes can be a daunting task, especially when you're in the Sidekick phase. There are a few common challenges that you might encounter on your journey, but don't worry – we've got your back. Let's take a closer look at them:
UNCERTAINTY - It's easy to feel lost and overwhelmed when you're not sure what direction to take. But remember, it's okay not to have all the answers right away. Take it one step at a time, and keep an open mind. You never know what opportunities might present themselves when you're open to new possibilities.
TAKING ON TOO MUCH TOO SOON - It's tempting to jump in with both feet and try to make all the changes at once. But this can be overwhelming and often leads to burnout. Instead, focus on taking small, manageable steps forward. Celebrate each small win, and before you know it, you'll have made significant progress.
FOCUSING ON THE WRONG THINGS - It's easy to get caught up in the details and lose sight of the bigger picture. Stay focused on your priorities, and make sure the actions you're taking are relevant to them. Remember, the journey is unique to you, so don't compare yourself to others. Keep your eyes on the prize and enjoy the ride.
Focus ON PRIORITY
Knowing your true priorities is important when it comes to making a lifestyle change because it grounds you and helps filter out unrealistic expectations. It can be dangerous to take on big health and fitness commitments while you are studying full time, or building a career, or raising a small family or dealing with an illness.
Figure out what really matters to you now by ranking different aspects of your life, so you can focus on what's most important and urgent. If Health and Fitness isn’t your top priority now, its ok to keep that ticking over with small improvements while you focus on other things. A time will come when you can take on more.
Movement MINDSET - Social Connection IRL
As a Sidekick, it's important to remember that progress isn't a solo journey. Embrace the power of social connection and find someone who shares your goals, can hold you accountable, and can support and challenge you along the way. Don't be afraid to reach out and connect with others.
SIDE QUESTS
SOCIAL BUTTERFLY
Strike up a conversation with a stranger at a coffee shop, grocery store or anywhere else you find yourself. Make a connection with someone new.
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FORCED FRIENDS
Con a friend or family member into joining you for a workout by telling them you’re going for coffee or to Ikea. Instead, take them to the gym or hiking trail, they might hate you but also you’re their ride so they have no choice but to accompany you. The important thing is to get moving together.
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GRATITUDE GURU
Take a moment each day for a week to write down three things you are grateful for. They can be big or small, but the act of acknowledging them will help you stay positive and focused on the good.
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MINDFULNESS MASTER
Take five minutes each day to practice mindfulness meditation. Find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Let your thoughts come and go without judgment.
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QUESTION TIME
THE PROGRESS JOURNEY POSITIONS INTENDED USE IS AS A GUIDE FOR YOUR GOALS, EXPECTATIONS, EDUCATION & TRAINING. CLICK BELOW TO SEE THE MORE JOURNEY POSITIONS THAT MIGHT BE MORE RELEVANT.