Many of us say we want to make changes in the way we live our lives — whether it’s losing weight, eating healthier or living a more active lifestyle. Many of us follow through with those changes, others, not so much.
And, when it comes to making a lifestyle change that endures — one that can ultimately improve one’s health and quality of life — it’s even more elusive.
“Making a lifestyle change that endures requires commitment and effort sustained over time,” says Tim Cline, senior director of clinical training and program development for health promotion at UPMC Health Plan.
Smart Business talked with Cline about wellness and sustainable lifestyle change and how to get started.
What makes lifestyle change an issue of importance to employers?
Encouraging meaningful, sustainable lifestyle change through employee wellness programs is important to employers because such programs help to raise employee morale and improve employee retention. Such programs have also been shown to reduce ‘presenteeism’ and unplanned absences. Wellness programs have been shown to improve the health and productivity of the work force and stem the radically escalating costs of chronic diseases.
What is the key to making sustainable lifestyle changes?
Beware of products and services that tout a ‘quick fix’ or unheard of results. There is no single, magic key to success. A well-executed plan of small, progressive changes is the best way to achieve big, long-term goals.
However, one factor that has caught increased attention from the scientific community is social support. Involving others who can be receptive and responsive to your need to make a change can have a significant impact on your success.
What if you need to change more than one lifestyle behavior?
It’s still important to work on one lifestyle goal at a time. Your doctor or other health care provider can help you prioritize. It’s a good idea, however, to keep other lifestyle risks in check while you focus on your main goal. For example, rather than trying to lose weight while quitting smoking, focus on minimizing additional weight gain until you’re comfortable with your new nonsmoking lifestyle. Then you can tackle the weight issue.
