In today's fast-paced world, making positive changes to our lifestyle can seem overwhelming. Whether you're aiming to quit smoking, reduce alcohol consumption, or achieve a healthier body weight, the journey requires commitment and strategy. In this blog, we explore valuable insights from Sophie Zang, an accomplished organisational change manager and executive leadership coach, on how to effectively implement and sustain positive health changes.

The Three-Step Approach to Change

Sophie recommends a simple yet powerful three-step approach that works in both professional and personal contexts:

1. Knowing: Understand why you must change now

2. Taking Action: Start immediately and maintain consistency

3. Evaluating: Regularly check your progress and celebrate successes

Finding Your Compelling Reason

Transformation typically happens quickly through one of two catalysts:

1. Crisis: A significant event like a serious health diagnosis or job loss

2. Necessity: A strong desire to achieve a future goal, such as wanting to walk your daughter down the aisle in 20 years

Sophie shares the example of Steve Jobs, who after being forced out of Apple in 1985, used this crisis as a catalyst for growth. During this period, he founded Pixar and later returned to Apple, transforming it into the company we know today.

Without a compelling reason, change often doesn't stick. Sophie suggests this simple exercise to clarify your motivations:

• Write down why you want to be fit and healthy now

• Explain why being fit and healthy is important for your relationships

• Describe why being fit and healthy is crucial for your finances

Understanding Resistance to Change

Our brains are naturally wired to seek comfort and avoid uncertainty. That little voice saying "it's too cold to go to the gym" is just your brain doing its job. Recognising this resistance as normal can help you move past it.

Practical Strategies for Implementation

Sophie recommends keeping things simple and manageable:

1. Start small: Begin with achievable actions like two-minute breathing exercises every hour, five minutes of meditation before bed, or a 10-minute online workout during lunch

2. Write it down: Each morning, identify three simple actions you can take that day

3. Be consistent: Think of your efforts as planting seeds in a garden – with regular care, you'll be amazed at how they flourish

Embracing Setbacks

Sophie uses the powerful analogy of an electrocardiogram to illustrate the natural rhythm of change:

• A normal heartbeat shows ups and downs – just like life

• A flatline isn't progress – it's a sign of no life

When we experience setbacks, Sophie suggests we view them as moments to "take a breath and draw wisdom from the situation." Rather than beating ourselves up, we can approach challenges with compassion and learn from them.

From her personal experience of losing 40 kilograms, Sophie emphasises that transformation is possible with the right mindset. The key was making a real decision backed by a compelling reason – wanting to provide the best life possible for her daughter and parents.

Conclusion

Remember that transformation is a journey, not a destination. As Sophie beautifully puts it, "You deserve the very best this life has to offer. All you have to do is decide you want it, take that first step, and believe in your ability to make the change."

For personalised guidance on your wellness journey, consider booking a 1:1 consultation at roslindsey.com/bookings.

To listen to the full podcast episode featuring Sophie Zang, visit The Wellness Nurse YouTube channel.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding making changes to your health regime.