What holds us back from achieving optimal health? Are we neglecting our most valuable asset?

As a seasoned health coach, I've seen firsthand the struggles, people face in their pursuit of optimal health. Despite knowing how vital health is to every aspect of life - relationships, career, happiness – it often takes a backseat to other priorities.

I'll dive into some of the challenges I have witnessed and explore a few reasons why we sometimes neglect our most valuable asset.

The All or Nothing Mindset

A common theme I've noticed is the "all or nothing" approached to health. Many clients feel they have to overhaul their entire life overnight – perfect nutrition, intense workouts, flawless sleep routines, or they don't bother at all. This mindset leads to burn out and discouragement when perfection isn't achieved. The truth is, it's not about extremes. It's about consistent, yet sometimes small daily rituals, that build up a substantial 'health portfolio'.

Too Much Information

Another barrier I see is confusion caused by conflicting health advice. Clients often come to me, overwhelmed by the sheer volume of information available. This overload leads to paralysis or misguided efforts that don't align with their unique needs. This can be a especially stressful for the person who is starting a health regime later in life.

The Quick Fix Trap

I've watched countless people fall into the trap of quick fixes. Crash diets, detox programs, weekend retreats, etc. which rarely address the root cause of poor health. They offer temporary results but leave people feeling defeated when they realize it's not that easy to make such drastic changes for any length of time. Sustainable change takes time and trust me, it's worth it. The idea that faster is better is completely false. Again, it's a temporary fix, with no longevity or sustainability.

Cultural Conditioning

Sometimes cultural norms often discourage self-care. Many people have felt pressured to prioritize productivity over personal well-being, believing that taking care of themselves is selfish or indulgent. Similar to those who take care of everybody else first and leave little to no energy for themselves. There's a good reason why when you're on a plane you're instructed to, "put your oxygen mask on first, then your child's." It's about making sure you are healthy and taken care of so you can caretake others. Shifting this mindset is one of the most important steps you can take to achieving optimal health.

Emotional Blocks

Health isn't just physical – it's deeply emotional. I've worked with a vast number of clients who carried unresolved trauma, limiting beliefs, or a false narrative that kept looping in their mind about themselves. Believing such narratives instead of changing the story to a positive one, ultimately can sabotage success. When we're willing to look at root causes versus pushing through situations, we can actually change how we feel about ourselves on a much healthier level.

A Coach's Call to Action

Here's a few ideas to get you started in the right direction

1. Start small and stay consistent – forget perfection! Focus on progress. Small changes – like drinking more water or walking or moving 10 minutes a day to build momentum overtime.

2. Prioritize self-care without guilt – prioritizing your health is not selfish; it's essential. When you take care of yourself, you show up better for your family, work, your spouse and community.

3. Seek Support – you don't have to do this alone. Whether it's hiring a coach, joining a supportive community, or working with a healthcare professional, accountability can make all the difference.

4. Address emotional barriers – if unresolved emotions are holding you back, take time to explore them. They are nothing to be ashamed of or hide from. Seek out ways to start breaking these barriers by either journaling, therapy or mindfulness practices. If you are better with a group, there are several online or in person support groups with individuals going through similar emotional pain. Don't be shy, reach out.

Lastly, It's Never too Late to Start

Time and time again, I've had clients share their worries about stepping out of their comfort zones, fearing they were "too old" to make a change. While aging may require some adjustments, it's far from a barrier. The saying "you can't teach an old dog new tricks" simply doesn't hold true. I've witnessed incredible transformations in clients who once doubted they could ever feel better – and they prove themselves wrong. They achieved it and so can you.

Remember, it's never too late to take the first step toward a rich life of wellness.

Angelese~