The Law of Average And Your Health Journey
Sep 26, 2022
Before I discuss the Law of Averages quote by Jim Rohn’s “We are the average of the five people we spend the most time with”, and how it applies to your health journey, I want to explain to you the reason why I first started writing this blog over two years ago.
I have been taking care of patients for 20 years and my passion remains the same - helping people avoid preventable diseases. Our healthcare system has the daunting task of treating an ever-increasing number of people with chronic diseases and most of these are preventable with the right adaptations to your lifestyle. The rise in cases of type II diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer’s/Parkinsons), cardiovascular disease, and cancer are overwhelming our healthcare system and I fear that they will not be able to keep up. So I am suggesting that if our healthcare system cannot effectively expand its capacity, then we need to reduce the number of people who rely on it. This is where you come in!
I’m just one person. How can one person make the difference that is needed to correct this situation?
Yes, you are one person. BUT you are one person in a group of friends, one person in a core or extended family, one person in a group of co-workers, one person on a sports team, and one person in a community organization. Anything you do to improve your health will not only positively impact your journey, but will also help others positively adapt their health journey too. Simply put, this is the definition of the Law of Averages.
Now, unfortunately, we also need to look at the not-so-positive side of group connection. This is when the people we surround ourselves with do not set the best examples when it comes to healthy choices and creating long-lasting good health habits. It would be great if the positive habit maker always influenced those with not-so-great habits, but traditionally it is the other way around.
I’m ready to make a change. What should I do next?
- Get clarity on where you are and where you want to be. The journey does not have to be perfect, but in order to reach your goal, you need to take steps that move you toward it. It’s important that you realize that you cannot keep making the same choices and then expect to experience a more favourable outcome.
- Get inspired. Find a mentor that has already succeeded in achieving the goals you are striving for and read their book, take their online courses, listen to their podcasts, etc.
- Set yourself up for success. Be aware of social situations, friend groups or even family relationships that may make it difficult for you to reach your goals. You do not want to exhaust all of your energy by swimming against the current. Identify ways to set yourself up for success if you find yourself in these situations or make the hard decision to limit your interactions until your new healthy habits are second nature.
- Make a new connection. Introduce yourself to someone who exhibits the health habits that you are trying to achieve. Maybe there is someone in your extended circle that exemplifies the goals you are striving for. Why recreate the wheel for success if they have tips and tricks that have already worked for them. I can guarantee you, they will be excited to share their experience with you.
- Spend time in new environments - grocery shop at local markets instead of big-box department stores, look for walking groups to join, and attend community events to meet people with the same interests and hobbies.
Last, but not least….
Encourage others to join you on your journey. We need more leaders and it starts with YOU. We must start to take personal responsibility for our health and the decisions that we make every day if we want to enjoy good health for many years. Having like-minded people for accountability, guidance, support, and to celebrate with when goals are achieved will most certainly ensure your success. Maybe you don’t have anyone to join you - then lean on us. Perhaps you work in an office dynamic - then check out our new Corporate Wellness Program and talk to your employer about implementing it today!