Hang Around with Like Minded People

If you hang around with people who think exercise is reaching for a doughnut or doing the 12 oz curl after work, you might want to reconsider who you hang out with.

Does that mean you have to change all your friends? Of course not.

If you have a strong desire to change you life and you can be around others who don't support that, then good for you. For me, I find it much easier to make healthy choices when I surround myself with people who are also interested in being healthier--and do more than just talk about it.

It doesn't mean you can't see your friend Sue or buddy Bob ever again. I'm suggesting that you cultivate some additional, new relationships. When you are out walking, say hello to others. If you see them regularly, you could suggest you walk together for a bit.

Or it may be that there is someone you work with or who lives down the street who has also been talking about wanting to be more healthy. See if he or she would be interested in being a walking partner, or how you can support one another in a different way. That support might be in sharing tips you learned, a great recipe you tried, a great place you went to for a walk over the weekend.

Don't be surprised if, as your body starts to change along with your new habits, people don't start approaching you and asking what you are doing. These just might be some great new support buddies!