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Most of us want to be better, in some way or another. Whether it’s physique, habit, energy-related, or even a bucket list item to check off, we have aspirations of some sort. While you may be seeking change or perhaps just thinking about it, how do you know if you will follow through? Do you just “wing it” and hope for the best? Or do you strategize?
I have found that asking a few simple questions allows insight into whether or not clients will find success. First of all, most of us need a strong “why” or reason for initiating change or a new habit. Secondly, we also are more likely to succeed when we are receptive and ready for that change. Lastly, it is helpful for the goal or task to be realistic in order to incorporate it into our lives. How do we know if we are ready and receptive to change, and whether our goal is realistic? Read on to find out the five questions you can ask yourself before deciding to move forward!
The 5 Questions
1. What is my “why” or reason for wanting to make this change?
Be honest with yourself here. It’s okay to be specific and real. Is it coming from
somewhere within yourself? Did your doctor tell you to? Do you feel pressure from
someone/something else, or is it something YOU want for yourself? Are you making this
change so you have more energy? Feel better? Look better? Are healthier? Are
happier? Dig deep into why you want to do this. The more information you can gather,
the better. There is not a distinct right or wrong answer here, as long as you are being
honest with yourself!
2. If I decided to make a change, what makes me think I can do it?
No, this is not meant to be snarky at all. Think about all the times you have honed in on
a goal or aspiration. What went well? What didn’t? How can you use those lessons to
reach this particular goal?
3. If I decided to change, on a scale of 1-10 (from not confident at all to exceptionally confident), how confident am I that I can achieve this?
Don’t sugarcoat this one. Even if your number is low, it does not mean you cannot
achieve it. You may need some support or assistance to reach your goal, and that is
completely okay! Even coaches need coaches!
4. What would my life look like 5 years from now if I made this change? And if I did not?
For some goals or aspirations, this may appear silly. But our lives are quite literally a
series of habits, day in and day out. One seemingly small habit can yield huge results
over time. Take this question and seriously contemplate how your life would be
changed. Then flip it and consider what life would be like if you do not take initiative.
5. Do I have and/or need support to initiate and sustain this change? (spousal support, trainer/dietician, workout buddy, etc)
Many of my clients’ goals do require some outside support. For example, If someone
wants to drastically change their nutrition and they have a significant other, 98% of the
time they need their SO on board, especially if they live together. No support equals a
much greater challenge long-term. Maybe you need a workout partner for
accountability. Maybe you need us. Perhaps you post to social media for your friends to
cheer you on. This is subjective to what your wants and needs are.
The Takeaway
After answering these questions, take some time to determine how you are feeling. Then ask yourself a bonus question:
What is the tiniest, easiest step I can take today or this week to move forward with this goal/aspiration?
Write it down. Begin within (see what we did there?). Then get started!
Need a little extra push? Send me your answers to our 5 questions to jessica@beginwithin.fit and I will give you some feedback!
Jessica Corkin is a certified personal trainer at Begin Within. She holds a Master’s Degree in Exercise Science and has spent the last seven years working in the fitness and wellness industry. When she is not virtually training clients, she enjoys strength training, running, being outdoors, and spending quality time with her husband and dog. Oh, and also making educational content like this.
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