of the 5 people you spend the most time with.
Yes, we’ve all heard this expression to some degree and probably rolled our eyes a time or two when hearing it!
There’s some truth to it when it comes to your health. The people you surround yourself with can have a significant impact on your own habits and behaviors, and this can ultimately affect your overall well-being.
We all learn at an early age about peer pressure and making decisions that are best for us rather than what others want us to do. That said, over the years we can all think of instances where we did things because others did something.
This is called social comparison and it’s a real thing all of our lives.
As we get older, wiser, and more confident in ourselves, it’s easy to forget just how much of an impact this social comparison can have both for positive and less than positive outcomes on something like our health.
If you’re constantly surrounded by people who make healthy choices, you may be more likely to do the same. On the other hand, if you’re surrounded by people who engage in unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking or overeating, you may be more likely to adopt these habits as well. If they go to the gym and eat nutritious foods, you’re more likely to do the same.
There can be a similar effect with regard to stress levels and those you spend the most time around.
If you’re surrounded by positive and supportive people, you may feel less stressed and more able to cope with challenges. On the other hand, if you’re surrounded by negativity and conflict, you may experience higher levels of stress, which can have negative effects on your physical and mental health.
Another way that the people you spend time with can affect your health is through their influence on your social network. If you’re connected to a large and physically active network of people, you may have access to a wider range of resources and support, which can help to improve your overall well-being.
On the other hand, if you’re isolated and disconnected from others, or only connected to folks with poor lifestyles, you may lack access to these resources and support, which can have negative effects on your health.
We’re not saying drop everything and find new friends, but think about the habits you’re working on building for your own health and well being, and whether those values and goals are shared by those around you.
It’s likely you already have some great sources of motivation and support around you that you can pull in closer. Moreover, there are likely people close to you in your life for which you could be an example of positive and healthy habits.
Surrounding yourself with positive and supportive individuals who prioritize their health can have a positive impact on your own habits and behaviors, and can ultimately improve your overall health and well-being!
Click here to book an intro to talk with a coach about building healthy habits!
Read about how we help you build new routines at Capacity here.