There comes that day when a program must move on from a coach. For those involved behind the scenes, it is never an easy process. During the coaching search, athletic directors commonly speak about finding a replacement that fits the culture, understands the school, and aligns with the values of the institution. Similarly, your health strategies should align with your values. Here are a few tips for aligning the two.
Choose Health Based on Values
You can tell a lot about a fan base by what sports an institution is annually good at. Fans push departments to uphold success in certain sports. Duke basketball. Alabama football. Oregon track and field. Their fan base demands the school put a high value on those sports. With your health, the key is to find out what you value most then apply it to your strategies. If relationships are a value, group classes in spin, yoga, or a workout partner would be great choices. If resourcefulness is a value you hold, body weight circuits and free YouTube workout videos are a good answer.
Bridge Your Passions
College athletics is known as a passionate industry. What’s great about college sports is the sheer number of ways a person can show their passion. You can donate. You can wear your team colors around town. You can attend sporting events. The options are endless. When developing health strategies, the key is to find ways to bridge your passions, values, and fitness. If you have a passion for charity, local 5k are great events that raise money for a good cause. If you have a passion to educate, find a friend just beginning his/her health journey and be their mentor.
Find What Connects You to Others
When I was recruited for college track, I took my 5 official visits to various colleges. They were all nice trips hosted by welcoming coaching staff and university leaders. None captured the value of culture like the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. I love my Cajun French ancestry and culture. That connection is why I became a Ragin Cajun. When choosing health strategies, find what connects you to your loved ones. If you value a partnership, join your significant other on various workout days. If you value exploration and adventure, find time to take a hike with a friend.
Your health will be easier to sustain when you align your strategies with your values. Choose your health strategies based on your values. Bridge your passion and your health. Find out what connects you with the others you love in terms of health strategies. Developing strategies with your values in mind will add another layer of fulfillment to your health goals.