A new year has begun and along with it, another long list of resolutions for how things will be different in 2012. Like many, number one on my list is to exercise more in order to improve my fitness level and overall health. Oh, I’ve been here before, resolving to curb snacking, exercise every day and increase my overall activity level. So, what really makes me think that this year will
by any different? Without some type of plan to change my behavior, it just isn’t going to happen.
Wait, did I say “change my behavior?” Don’t we have a whole process around behavior change here at Eagle’s Flight? Don’t we stress its importance with every client who comes to us hoping to make some improvements in their organization? What if I take these principles and apply them to my personal fitness goal? Will I have more success?
Let’s see…
- Define the problem (I’m just not getting enough exercise and I could stand to lose a few pounds)
- Define the desired goal or end state (Regular activity at least 4 times a week and better overall conditioning; ability to fit into my “skinny” jeans)
- ID barriers and enablers to reaching the goal (Barriers – time, lack of motivation, boredom; Enablers – supportive spouse, also embarking on his own fitness regime)
- Define the steps to reaching the goal (join a gym; get a personal trainer; schedule fitness into my day)
- “Pre” Measurement (how much do I weigh; how often am I exercising; how tight are my jeans…?)
- Faithfully follow the steps
- Apply what I learn along the way to my day to day reality (multiple activities with kids in the evening so exercising in the morning is better)
- Support and Reinforcement (exercise with a friend and celebrate wins along the way)
- Benchmark and “Post” measurement (so – did I achieve my goal?)
- Course Correct as required
This is all new - I’ve never actually written down a plan for
how I’m going to keep my new year’s resolutions! While not as detailed as a
behavior change strategy for your organization, I think this may just set me up for personal success. Check back with me next year and I’ll let you know.
In the meantime, what are your 2012 resolutions – either personal or business? Do you have the necessary behavior change strategies in place to ensure success?