This is one of the most common questions I hear- Why can’t I stick to the program? The following reasons are not all the possible reasons, but a few may surprise you.

For some, they want instant “microwave” results. They feel that after 2 weeks on the program, they should see “more” results. They get discouraged and that discouragement sends them straight to the buffet, the cigarettes, or the couch.

Unfortunately, they forgot that it took several months or even years to reach their current state of health, and most folks find that 5 or 6 weeks is a more realistic time frame to see change happen in how they look and feel.

Another reason might be that the program they selected was not right for them. Particularly, if the person selected an off-the-shelf program to follow, or gave their coach very little input about what works and doesn’t work for them.

Every person is unique and their preferences are just as unique; even in brothers and sisters. Following a program just because it worked for someone else may not be the best idea unless you are open to experimenting to see if you like the program and your results.

Still another possibility is the person’s stage of readiness to change their behavior. There are 6 stages of readiness to change: 1-Precontemplation 2-Contemplation 3-Preparation 4-Action 5-Maintenance and 6- Termination.

The Action stage is number 4 in the sequence (not number 1). Perhaps the person’s readiness to change is at stage 1, 2, or 3. Guess what? Not being at number 4 and ready for action in changing behavior IS OK.

Learning to trust yourself and the process of lifestyle change takes time, trial and error, learning, and trying again.

In addition, many see themselves as being either ON or OFF the program. And in this clear and distinct ON or OFF, they also have unrealistic expectations and perhaps unrealistic goals set for themselves.

Nobody is 100 percent ON the program ALL the time. That would be a problem all by itself. The thing is to work towards being consistent 80 percent of the time with your lifestyle choices (movement, food, sleep, managing stress, & social connection).

If you do that, you may find the other 20 percent takes care of itself.

So, these are just a few reasons for the frustration so many experience when attempting to change their daily behaviors.

Yes, lifestyle change is difficult. No doubt about it.

But for those who have reached their health and wellness goals, I’ve NEVER heard one of them tell me that they regret reaching their goals.

If you have experienced one or more of these frustrations, this is a very good reason to work with a board certified health coach.