As a personal trainer since 1994, I have partnered with countless individuals on their journey to a fit and healthy lifestyle.  Many of them achieve their goals and decide to proceed on their own to live their new lifestyle. I see them a year or two down the road and they are as out of shape and overweight (or worse) than when we began.  What happened?

If you can relate to this then you are in good company.  Research suggests that 50% of persons starting an exercise program will drop out within the first six months.  (Wilson & Brookfield 2009).

It’s not because you are weak or have no willpower. It’s not because you’re not good enough or don’t have time. It’s because your brain patterns are stuck in the rut of habit and lifelong programming.  You have to reprogram your brain to maintain long- term success.  You have to be mindful of your negative self-talk and treat yourself with the same love and compassion you would a dear friend.

In his concluding summary at the Mind and Human Potential Conference (2009), (You Tube: The Brain and It’s Potential), Dr. Evian Gordon states that BIG changes can only be achieved through very SMALL steps.

Take it one day at a time. One habit at a time. One step at a time. Be patient with yourself.  Be easy about it.  Life is supposed to be fun.