It was Jim Rohn who once said, “You are the average of the five people you spend time with.”
I used to chalk up that statement as silly self-improvement mumbo jumbo.
That is, until I began my health and fitness journey.
I preach a smart nutritional approach that considers food to be both fuel for activity as well as fun.
I suggest sensible exercise solutions that are appropriate for various fitness levels.
I emphasize sustainable behavior changes to serve as the glue for remaining consistent with nutrition and regular activity.
Nutrition, fitness and behavior change are the trifecta of my focus as a coach.
Only, Rohn also has it right. For, there is another vital component that shouldn’t be ignored.
Support.
Some have it.
Many don’t.
And still others fail to understand the impact a positive support system, or the opposite, has on one’s ability to be successful in whatever venture they seek to tackle.
It’s important to be aware whether those with whom we spend the majority of our time serve as fuel to foster growth and improvement or whether they frequently douse our spirit and enthusiasm — intentionally or unintentionally.
Those in my circle have been given a front row seat to my life, while others are purposely shown to seats in the balcony, a location offering a farther, and at times, obstructed view. Others, still, are relegated to the lobby. While everyone remains in “my theater,” for I find value in having variety of friends and business acquaintances, the belief that not everyone deserves a front-row seat is valid and supports healthy boundaries.
My front row is made up of friends and colleagues who have played significant roles in my spiritual, creative, emotional and professional development. They have offered a shoulder on which to cry, a kick in the pants when I doubt my abilities, a gentle rebuke for dreadfully wrong decisions, an offering of grace following those screw-ups, a positive push toward making improvements, partnership while exploring new directions, applause for a job well done, guidance for tasks that seem insurmountable, an open door when I feel shut out and laughter — lots of laughter.
As I write, I’m currently sitting at my son’s tennis lesson. He loves the sport.
“I feel joy when I play. Tennis makes me happy!” he shares — before, after and in between each lesson.
It’s fun, but he also wants to improve his game.
While I would like to believe I can help him up his game, I can’t. At this point, his skills are better than mine. I’m the weaker player. The only way for my son to continue improving his game is to meet with his coach who will drill techniques and to practice his skills by facing stronger competitors on the court. This is his tennis circle.
As a writer, I may think the words you are reading make sense, but these words pass by an editor or two before being published. I expect these professionals to ask for clarification if something sounds off, correct my spelling and grammar, and come directly out to say, “Joline, this piece doesn’t work” when I’m making no sense. I have a writer circle.
Those who have the knowledge and tools for smart, sensible and sustainable fitness and nutrition, but continue to yo-yo in their consistency, may be lacking that fourth vital component of support.
Both in fitness and life, a supportive circle will have a positive impact on one’s life.
The adverse is also true.
Fill your front row wisely.
Joline Pinto Atkins is a certified fitness professional (ACE, NAFC) wellness coach, lifestyle weight management specialist (NESTA) and also represents Team Beachbody, the makers of proven in-home fitness programs like P90X, 21 Day Fix and Beachbody on Demand — our all access fitness streaming package. She teaches P90X and PiYo locally at B-Well Nation Fitness Center and offers complimentary consultations for developing a personal fitness/nutrition strategy. Along with coaching and teaching, she writes on a variety of topics on her personal blog, www.thecuppajo.com. Questions may be emailed to shapeupwithjo@gmail.com or at thecuppajo.com/contact.