Embracing Change: My Wellness Journey and Its Transformative Impact
- Janet Yaa
- Feb 17
- 5 min read
Understanding the Equation of Progress
By Janet Yaa
I love it when I come across something that I've been doing that has plenty of evidence based research behind it. Don't you? On my IG post recently I wrote a snappy heading: "Intention + environment + action + consistency = progress." to sum up my conscious decision to address my wellness challenges.
As I was preparing to write this blog, I thought I'd Google it and see what comes up. Not surprisingly, there are already theories about my little succinct formula. Two prominent approaches are by Martin Fishbein's and Icek Ajzen's Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) (1975) and Theory of Planned Behaviour (TRB) (Azjen, 1985).
The Theory of Reasoned Action
The Theory of Reasoned Action (TRA) provides insight into how people's attitudes and social influences shape their intentions and behaviours. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:
Key Concepts
Intentions: According to TRA, individuals are likely to act based on their intentions. These intentions are influenced by their personal beliefs and the expectations they perceive from others.
Attitudes: A person's attitude towards a behaviour is shaped by their beliefs about the outcomes of that behaviour. If a person believes that a behaviour will lead to positive results, they are more likely to have a favourable attitude towards it.
Social Influences (environment): The opinions and behaviours of others also play a significant role. If individuals feel that important people in their lives expect them to engage in a certain behaviour, they are more likely to intend to do so.
Importance of the Theory
The Theory of Reasoned Action is particularly valuable for understanding decision-making in various contexts, including:
Health: It can help explain why individuals choose to adopt healthy behaviours, such as exercising or quitting smoking.
Relationships: The theory can shed light on how people make decisions about their relationships based on their attitudes and social expectations.
Everyday Life: TRA applies to many daily decisions, from consumer choices to lifestyle changes.
In summary, the Theory of Reasoned Action emphasises the connection between beliefs, social influences, and behaviour, making it a crucial framework for understanding how we make decisions.
The Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB)
The BFF of TRA is Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) and is often discussed alongside the TTRA. TPB suggests that a person's choice to participate in a specific behaviour, such as gambling or quitting gambling, is largely determined by their intention to perform that behaviour.
Understanding Intentions
Intentions are seen as key indicators of the motivational factors that drive behaviour. They reflect:
How hard individuals are willing to try to engage in the behaviour
The level of effort they plan to put into performing the behaviour
In essence, the stronger the intention, the more likely a person is to act on it.
This delightful little shorthand, "Intention + environment + action + consistency = progress.", was meant to capture the heart of my personal growth and development, especially in my exciting journey of fitness and wellness. Each piece of this puzzle plays a vital role in crafting a well-rounded approach to achieving our goals.
Intention: This is the spark that ignites our journey, helping us define what we truly want to achieve.
Environment: The surroundings we create—be it physical, social, or emotional—can either lift us up or hold us back.
Action: Here’s where the magic happens! It’s all about stepping out of our comfort zones and making things happen.
Consistency: This is the secret sauce that ensures our efforts pay off over time, leading to sustainable progress and lasting change.
The Power of Personal Training
My one-on-one training sessions with my personal trainer, along with the small group sessions she conducts, are like a gentle breeze guiding me along my wellness journey. These sessions are not just about breaking a sweat; they encompass a broader spectrum of wellness that includes mental and emotional health.
Each session is like a tailor-made suit, perfectly fitting my individual needs. This personalised approach allows me to focus on my goals while receiving the support and encouragement I need to stay motivated. Plus, the small group sessions add a sprinkle of community spirit, which I hope I will soon be able to share my experiences, challenges, and victories, creating an environment that fosters growth and accountability.
Meet Personal Trainer Josie
In my IG post about my PT's approach, we shine a spotlight on her approach to fitness and wellness. Josie’s philosophy revolves around understanding the individual needs of her clients, ensuring that everyone feels seen and supported on their journey.
She emphasises building a strong foundation based on trust and communication, which allows her to create personalised workout plans that align with her clients’ goals and lifestyles. Josie isn’t just about pushing limits; she’s all about empowering her clients to discover their strengths and capabilities, fostering a positive relationship with exercise and self-care.
The Benefits of One-on-One Training
One of the primary reasons I adore my one-on-one sessions with Josie is the exclusive attention I receive. This individualised focus allows her to closely assess my form, technique, and overall performance, ensuring I’m executing movements safely and effectively.
Moreover, she crafts a bespoke plan tailored specifically to my needs, taking into account my fitness level, personal goals, and any physical limitations I may have. This level of customisation is incredibly beneficial, helping me progress at my own pace while still being challenged.
And let’s not forget the flexibility! Scheduling these sessions around my busy life as a working mother of a 6-year-old is a lifesaver. It allows me to prioritize my health without compromising my responsibilities at home and work.
Investing in Myself
Engaging in bespoke one-on-one personal training has proven to be immensely beneficial for both my physical and mental wellbeing. As a working mother, it’s essential for me to recharge and invest in my health. After all, I can’t effectively support my family and fulfil my professional obligations if I’m running on empty!
This time dedicated to myself isn’t just self-care; it’s a necessary investment in my overall quality of life. By prioritising my wellness, I’m better equipped to handle the challenges of motherhood and work, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Take the Leap!
If any of the issues discussed resonate with you, I encourage you to seek professional input. Whether you’re struggling with motivation, unsure of how to start your fitness journey, or simply looking for guidance and support, reaching out to a qualified personal trainer or wellness coach can provide you with the tools and resources you need to succeed.
Remember, investing in your health is one of the best decisions you can make for yourself and those around you. So why not take that leap? Your future self will thank you!
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