5 minutes of laser-like focus

In addition to my private health coaching practice, I occasionally have the pleasure of being a part of a team which goes into companies/organizations to promote the health of its employees.

We start by administering a few standard biometric tests (blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, etc.) which are known to be indicators for heart disease, diabetes and other not so pretty conditions.

Once an employee’s numbers are determined, we spend a few minutes offering an interpretation of those numbers.

My role as the coach is to give each employee an opportunity to identify one health goal and help them create a strategy for converting their goal into action.

The challenge is that I only have about 5 minutes to get down to the nitty gritty with each person.

Not an ideal time frame.

Especially for a guy like me who loves the experience of connecting with people, one-on-one, and who knows that the most productive coaching session, optimally, lasts 30-45 minutes.

What I’ve found, though, is that it’s amazing what can be accomplished in a few short minutes when two things are present.

1) You’ve got a compelling reason for making a behavioral change (see last week’s post).

2) You’ve got a realistic plan which starts by taking small steps today.

Most of the people I work with have goals which are remarkably universal: lose a few pounds, figure out how to fit exercise into a busy day, or manage the stress that’s killing them slowly.

The beautiful thing is that it is possible to make progress on these goals in a short amount of time, if we approach them with true commitment and a laser-like focus.

Much like Stephen Sondheim says in “Bit by bit”,

“Putting it together –

That’s what counts!

Small amounts,

Adding up to make a work of art.

First of all you need a good foundation,

Otherwise it’s risky from the start.

Takes a little cocktail conversation,

But without the proper preparation,

Having just a vision’s no solution,

Everything depends on execution.

The art of making art is putting it together”

OK, back to you.

What’s your burning desire regarding your health?

What small step can you take in the direction of your goal, starting right now?

If there’s anything I can do to help you experience more vitality and greater health – I’d love to help!