When you let people know you are choosing a path for healthier living, it helps to make you accountable. Set up your own support system with friends or family to stay on top of your goals. Why are healthy lifestyle choices important to you? Keep those reasons top of mind.
You want to live longer? Research says you can start by surrounding yourself in support and engaging in healthy behaviors more often. It can be hard to ask for help, but reaching out to your friends, family, neighbors, or people in community organizations can help you build a support team that will push you to reach your goals.
There are many types of people you can choose to recruit for your support team. Each can help you in a unique way. Who in your life matches the descriptions below? These are the people you need to recruit for your support team.
Informational Supporters — provide helpful information/suggestions on health, nutrition and physical activity
Emotional Supporters — provide motivation and encouragement to keep you going on your
road to heart health
Participatory Supporters — provide a partner with whom you can be active or eat healthy
Logistical Supporters — provide practical assistance such as childcare, transportation, or help
getting other tasks done so you can make time for yourself.
Healthy activities can be more fun if you do them with your support group. You can:
- Get a walking partner or start a walking club in your neighborhood or workplace
- Play active games or go on a bike ride with family or friends
- Walk your dog (a furry friend can offer support too!)
- Participate in local charity walks, such as the American Heart Association's Heart Walk
- Organize a heart-healthy potluck lunch or dinner party
- Go to a farmer's market with a friend to find local fruits and vegetables in season
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