I was reading an email the other day that was going on and on...and on...about how to use conflict to improve your message.
The emailer laid out a simple formula to justify a conflict:
Present an enemy
Present an obstacle
Present motivation (a reason to overcome)
I like!
In fitness speak, the enemy could be being out of shape.
The obstacle could be comfortable, modern, mainstream lifestyle (poor nutrition, lack of exercise habits or not prioritizing exercise, laziness, tv, social media, alcohol, work-life balance, etc).
The motivation is to feel, look, and perform our best in all areas of life.
This can be individualized down to your exact scenario.
For example, a new parent may have a conflict scenario like the following:
The enemy: kid --- I'M JUST JOKING, you sensitive scally wags. I know kids are a blessing and great and all. I like all of my nieces and nephews. But the fruit was hanging too low for me not to pick it.
Let's get serious here.
Okay, so, new parent fitness conflict scenario, take 2:
The enemy: being in worse shape than you were before the birth of your new child.
The obstacles: mainstream acceptance that parents don't need to be in shape. That being fit is for the young and responsibility-free. Limited time compared to before having kids, and increased overall stress (keeping this little bugger alive, less sleep, less free time).
The motivation: you want to be a superior example for your kids that living a healthy lifestyle is important. Looking and feeling healthy is vital to quality of life. You want energy and the ability to play with your kids, and eventually grandkids, for the rest of your life. Finally, you are motivated to handle the stresses of life better by being more physically fit.
See? That was simple.
When I meet with potential new clients, I try to walk them through their specific conflict scenario. It can really clarify things.
What's your fitness conflict scenario?
Identify your enemy. Figure out your biggest obstacles. Understand your motivation to overcome these enemies and obstacles.
Write it down.
Tell a friend or hire a coach.
Take accountability and get to work.
This is NOT a temporary game. It's a lifelong game. So buckle up, buttercup. Embrace the suck to enjoy the rewards.
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