What is it that pushes us to achieve our wildest and most unlikely goals? Grit, defined by Angela Duckworth and her colleagues, is the combination of perseverance and a passion for life’s important goals. Leaders in art, medicine, law, journalism, and other fields have it. More important than the diet, exercise plan, or yoga class you choose, it’s following them. Building your resolve will help you stick to your wellness program, even in the face of setbacks.
Here are some suggestions for getting grittier.
* Find your passion. Before choosing a diet or exercise plan, read, study and experiment. Nutritionists, personal trainers, and other experts are good sources of information. Do you like to exercise with a friend? Find one. Can’t live without pasta? There are diets that include it. You will have to try different approaches until you identify something that you can embrace with enthusiasm. Enjoying your plan will help you stick to it.
* Emulate successful models. Talk to people who maintain a healthy lifestyle. Your success can be inspiring. Try to learn not only what they do, but also how they stick to it. Some are worn first thing in the morning, to start the day’s workout. Others prefer the structure of a class. Use only those strategies that you can be positive about and that fit your lifestyle and preferences.
* Dedicate yourself. Dedication to a goal involves a combination of unwavering commitment and persistence with the goal over time. If you decide you’re going to walk every day or three times a week, make it happen. If eating yogurt and fruit for lunch every day and getting at least 8 hours of sleep at night works, keep going. If you’re a sucker for novelty, change it, as long as you’re dedicated to the overall goal.
* Learn from setbacks. There’s no need to dwell on the chances of failure, but don’t be surprised by setbacks. Face problems head-on and use them productively to change your approach. Did you get injured riding your bike or cancel your meditation class? Rehab, rest, or substitute other activities, but don’t give up the changes you’ve already made. Using your setbacks as growth opportunities will keep you optimistic.
* Run the marathon, not the sprint. When you start to get fatigued, bored or run into obstacles, it’s not time to give up. If your schedule changes and you can’t get to the gym at lunchtime, decide when you can get there. Don’t overdo it, but keep it interesting. Challenge yourself by gradually raising the bar. Remember you are in this for the long haul.
Once you reach your goals, use the determination you’ve developed to maintain your achievements. A courageous approach to sticking with your program will provide you with a lifetime of wellness.
Copyright 2010 Judith Tutin, Ph.D.