I totally agree, and thanks for that imput, and all the helps listed out there. The think I am learning with coaching, is that no one is perfect, and everyone struggles with areas in their lives. I think one of the most helpful ways to connect with our patients is for them to also realize change is not easy, and we all have our struggles in areas. There are usually helpful organizations or individuals to address almost any area of difficulty.

I know in my own life, I struggle with craving bad carbohydrates. I am very transparent and honest about that in all my writings. So, when I have a patient who wants to lose weight, it is very easy for me to talk to them about my food struggles, and how they can take small steps toward changing that. I still have about 30 pounds to lose, and it is the hardest 30 pounds to take off.

I was out the other day walking with my three year old grandson, who is about 30 pounds. He grew tired, and I had to carry him. I immediately felt the effects of carrying around 30 extra pounds. It made my think of how much it slowed me down. And, wow, really got me a little more motivated to lose that extra weight.

The nice thing about being human, is we are all much more similar, than we are different. We all are these holistic beings, where one area affects the other. Taking time with our patients to talk through some of the areas with our patients would be very helpful. You know, we all have the answers deep down inside. Pulling those answers out takes time, and usually only after trust has been built.