All month I have shared some of what I think are the scariest topics facing the U.S. in the Wellness arena: Obesity, Mental Health, Physical Activity, and Memory. If you missed them, make sure to go back and read them.
After reading them, perhaps you're thinking, "What can we do?"
Well, I don't know what we can do, but I do think each person needs to take ownership of where he/she is at, what's working, and what's not. Truly, honestly, answer these questions. Then take a look at where you want to be. From here ask yourself what's standing in the way. In my experience the first round of answers tend to be money, time, work, and family obligations. Now, there may be some truth to that, but here's a fun tip: the true answer is not external. This part is where the hard work comes in. It's time to get real and face those stories that you're telling yourself (perceptions and interpretations - instead ask yourself, "What else could it mean?").
As I said, this part is the hardest part because we have to overcome our own B.S. (blind spots, but also the other kind). That's where Coaching can be so valuable. Just like a football coach really. We practice some plays that will hopefully be useful during the game. Sometimes they're not and we have to course correct. But just like football, sometimes the Quarterback can't see the end zone. He can't see that his running back is wide open because he has a defensive line running right at him. You're the Quarterback. Your goal is the running back. And that defensive line is life: work, family obligations, time sucks, bills, etc. A coach is there to help you get the bigger picture. A coach is there to say, "I know you can't see around that big wall (blind spot), but from where I am standing I can see some more options". And just like a Quarterback you have a choice to make: keep doing what you're doing or perhaps try some different options. A coach will not tell you what to do. A coach is simply there to listen to what you're saying, listen to what you're not saying, reflect back what you're saying, and perhaps provide some insight to some blind spots you're experiencing. A great coach will say the things that most people will not dare to say. A great coach will support you and your choices, but they are not the cheerleaders.
As a coach, I work with people who are operating with all the tabs open in the browser. When asked how they're doing the response is usually, "Good" or "Ok". They're surviving, but not thriving. They're doing all the things and staying afloat, and even though they're not lonely, they feel very alone. They're not unhappy, but they're not where they want to be. Quite often, they're not sure where they want to be. These are my people.
I am that person.
I am third generation to grow up in my farm house. I have 7 best friends, most of whom are from childhood. When I say I have 7 best friends many people respond with, "I don't think you understand the concept of a best friend" and I say, "How do you choose between people you've known your entire lives?". It wasn't until college that I realized that most people don't have this experience. I love being a best friend.
I am a small town girl, who loves her small town and close family, but has big dreams. I've always been a dreamer. I've never been afraid of a big goal. I've never been terribly good at the follow through of the big goal. The details. Thinking big is a talent of mine. Positivity is a talent of mine. Details, not so much. Which is why I started working with my own Coach. Details was my blind spot.
So, perhaps you see some of yourself in this. If so, lets chat.
Perhaps you see someone you know in this. If so, I'd love for you to put us in contact.
You can follow me on my Facebook Business Page Lindsey Schwahn Wellness.
I have a free Facebook community (sorry men, this one is ladies only) where we ask questions, share tips, and I'll go LIVE and chat about topics that are weighing on us. It's called Women Upleveling Their Health And Wellness. I'd love to have you join us.
Finally, if you think Coaching may help you, please reach out. I'd love to schedule a time to speak with you and see how I can help.
All Good Things,
Lindsey