Why the connection between activity and identity matters
How you think really matters when it comes to working your way to exerciser status.
Weekly Technique: The activity/identity connection
No matter what hat we’re wearing at any given moment (parent, cook, doer of all the things...), how we think about ourselves and our abilities impacts what we actually do. It even helps determine what we take on in the future.
Physical activity is no different. How much we’re willing to label ourselves “exercisers” plays a direct role in our fitness routine. If we think of ourselves as an exerciser, we’re more likely to get moving. Then, once we start regularly moving, we’re ready to call ourselves the next Serena Williams or The Rock (reader’s choice).
3 fast facts
Studies show that our personal identities impact what we plan to do, and what we actually do. This is true for a lot of things, from what we eat to how we spend our free time.
Studies suggest that when we think of ourselves as “exercisers” we’re more likely to be active, which leads us to identify ourselves that way even more. It’s a continuous cycle!
When we seed aspects of physical activity into other areas of our life, we’re also more likely to think of ourselves as exercisers. That means incorporating talking about activity and wearing workout gear can help us think of ourselves that way.
Try this technique
Reframe your way of thinking to focus on your physical activity skills this week.
Maybe you want to start running, or conquer completing 10 push ups. You also might just be trying to exercise on a more consistent basis. Pinpoint your answers to hone in on what you truly want to do.
No matter how small, think about those past times when you’ve been active. Running a full mile regularly might not be your thing, but you’ve probably found yourself running to catch a train or flight before.
These are called your proof points. Use them to form a new thought based on that evidence. It’ll help you reframe your thinking of yourself as an exerciser: “I am a short-on-time-don’t-be-late runner.”
Once you’ve identified that thought, repeat it to yourself at least once a day. Be sure to pay attention to any shifts over time in how you’re thinking or what you’re doing. And don’t be afraid to try out another proof point if you need!