Change. It’s hard. It’s important. Do you agree?

Change requires introspection and pushing outside of comfort zones, and finding new ways to do things. When I suggest that patients make changes specific to treating their health complaints, I support them. If they are really ready, we start big. If they are not ready, we start small. Gathering information, recognizing thought patterns and outlining real and perceived barriers is all part of this process.

Last week, a patient who has hypertension and all of the lab markers for diabetes and increased cardiovascular risk told me that her doctor simply told her that she needs to lose weight. This patient is so highly motivated to improve her health, but she completely lacked the tools that she needed to make it happen. In 4 weeks, with a solid plan, she has already improved her lab values and reduced her metabolic syndrome risk factors, and we have the numbers to show it. Change doesn’t always come so quickly, but with determination, it’s possible.

The article linked below provides a teaser – what you think, you become. A solid plan is a necessity. Equally important are positive affirmations, re-framing negative and limiting thoughts, recognizing what is possible. Seek out a partner to whom you can become accountable, and who will be a mirror for you as you figure out what works and what does not work. I spend a lot of time with patients working on these plans and figuring out workable solutions.

“What You Think You Become” from Success magazine.