How to motivate a friend to lead a healthier lifestyle!

So you are either fit and fabulous or well on your way but you see your spouse, children or friends that would benefit from the healthy choices you’ve been making and think “how do I get them motivated to follow my lead?”

The first thing you should NOT do is nag or brag.  I have long believed that nagging and belittling is not a good motivator because it doesn’t evoke people’s free will into changing unhealthy habits.  Being direct in a kind and honest way will probably get you further than making the person feel bad about themselves.  The key is to set them up for SUCCESS not failure.

As you prepare to engage your fitness-challenged friend keep these 3 things in mind:

1) You should be focused on the person’s overall health rather than just the physical appearance.   Looking good is a natural byproduct of a change to a healthy lifestyle, but it should not be the only goal.  Often people give up when they fail to fit into those skinny jeans within a few weeks into their program.  If the focus is placed on health versus appearance, your friend will be less likely to quit when they experience those normal negative body-issue days!

2) Encourage them to adopt eating and fitness habits that are well within their comfort zone – not yours.  Just because a diet and exercise routine works for you does not mean it will work for your friend.  Be supportive of whatever positive efforts they make in order to get healthy and fit.

3) One of the best way you can help a person to seek a healthier lifestyle is through example and encouragement.  Share with them your journey.  Your ups and downs.  The benefits you have experienced now that you are making healthier choices such as feeling better, experiencing less aches and pains, better flexibility.  And share with them how you conquer those set-backs and temptations. 

By being their mentor and biggest cheerleader you are more likely to inspire someone you love to a happier, healthier and longer life.