Resiliency

Did you know that when twins are born one is typically more resilient than the other? Why is this and does it have to do with genetic or environmental factors?

Resiliency is the ability to bounce back quickly from adversity or stress. Whether or not a person is resilient depends largely on their personality. I bring this topic up because it is important when reaching health and fitness goals.

Someone who has low resiliency is more likely to suffer from health problems like heart attacks, diabetes, anxiety, and depression. If you are someone who can identify with these characteristics then you are a resilient person:

1. You have positive thoughts
2. You see problems as opportunities
3. You have a deep rooted faith in a system of meaning
4. You have a wide comfort zone
5. You have a healthy social support network

Environmental factors can often cause a person to lose sight of their health and fitness goals. For example, someone who is overweight and begins working out at a gym may lose all desire to finish the workout when they see someone who is already at the fitness level they want to be at. However, someone who is resilient would look at that person as a role model and motivation to get where they want to be.

Another example would be giving in to your favorite cheat meal after working hard at the gym all week. This isn't the end of the world! Use this as an opportunity to identify what you might be doing wrong. What are you cutting out of your diet that your body might need? Are you getting proper nutrition post-workout? Also, think positively! Your body most likely needed that meal.

I would recommend setting very small goals for yourself if you are not typically a resilient person. Take it day by day and don't set too many goals that will overwhelm you.

Here are a few examples of small goals that would be great to start out with on your health and fitness journey:
1. Eat a couple pieces of fruit throughout the day
2. Finish at least 30 minutes of cardio. Break it up into three 10 minute sessions if you have to.
3. Learn a new strength exercise
4. Start your day with a big glass of water before you eat anything
5. Get rid of everything in your cabinets with high fructose corn syrup or partially hydrogenated oil in the ingredients list

By having 1 or more of these small goals each day, you are less likely to fail. The goal allows you to take control of your life little at a time. Remember that you are human, just like everybody else in the gym. We had to start somewhere too! The difference is, when we fell down we may have cried a little, dusted ourselves off, but we stood back up! Never lose sight of a healthier you.