I usually suggest to clients that they consider (how's that for non-directive) adding exercise to the daily routine. Research has shown that exercise is the magic pill for what ails you. It lowers depressive symptoms, anxiety, the risk of Alzheimer's's disease, blood pressure, cholesterol, increases endorphins, improves memory, etc. The results of research is strongly indicative that exercise is a modern day panacea for what ails us. So why aren't we following this wonderful advice. I listened to my own self-talk, and it went something like, "it's cold outside. I'll go to the center later." Another one was "I'm too tired, have too much to do, don't want to go." The last one is all encompassing!
So how did I get myself out the door? A trainer. I'm fortunate in that my fitness center (www.NIFS.org) has a program for weight management. I get two 30 minute sessions with a trainer 2x a week for a small fee per month. Accountability gets me out the door.
I've used accountability buddies for other tasks. The challenge is to find someone who does not align with you in not doing the tasks. I've had good friends who would collude with me to have fun instead of complete the tasks. So finding someone who is serious about his/her own tasks is important. This person would be someone to whom you would feel embarrassed if you didn't keep your word.
Ideally you would be that person to yourself. The question of why we need to rationalize not doing what is healthy for us is an important one to answer. When we don't keep our word to ourselves, we compromise our self esteem. Think about how you compromise your self-esteem this week.
