The second part of the ABC of SDT is………. Belonging. That feeling that you are a part of something. That you are welcome and wanted. A group you actually want to be part of. When you join a gym you don’t feel that you’re ‘part of anything’ usually. Just another number. Other than wanting you to pay them a weekly or monthly subscription, there isn’t much to suggest that you are wanted there. And the atmosphere in many gyms, slimming clubs and classes doesn’t always seem that welcoming from the outside. Doesn’t mean you’re not welcome. You probably are. But most FitPros don’t put as much thought into this sort of thing as I do. It’s part of the reason I structure our ‘on boarding’ process like I do. Reading some of these blogs, requesting info, having a chat on WhatsApp, answering questions and, if it’s a good fit, getting people booked in for a first Session and starting the induction process. It’s designed to attract a certain type of person. To make you feel that you’re wanted for reasons other than just helping me feed my kids. That we don’t just take on anyone with a wallet and a pulse. And that you’ll be part of something when you’re here. Doesn’t mean if you don’t / didn’t like what I have to say that you’re a bad person. Just maybe we’re not quite the right fit for what you’re looking for. Your belonging can come from many ways when related to this ‘health and fitness’ journey. From us. From other members (the members that speak to others the most and come to the most socials always stay the longest). From doing it with a friend or partner. From an online group. Or wherever else is appropriate. When you’re doing it by yourself………. Or as part of some community you don’t necessarily want to belong to……….. Your Belonging will be thwarted. Your motivation won’t be what it could be. If any of that rings true………. That could be holding you back. Look for places where you actually feel part of something. It might mean getting a bit more involved in something you’re already doing. It might mean trying something new (possibly us, if you haven’t already –> www.myrise.co.uk/apply) Get that belonging and we’re two thirds of the way to motivated. Tomorrow…… the world! No, sorry…….. I meant Competence. Much love, Jon ‘Jess Copplestone’ Hall
