Movies for inspiration
Last weekend I watched the movie Brittany Runs a Marathon, currently available on Amazon Prime. It is based on a true story and wonderfully demonstrates the processes and emotions involved with making lifestyle changes.
Without giving too much of the movie away, (WARNING: SPOILERS AHEAD) Brittany’s identity at the beginning of the movie included being quick-witted, easy going and fun, and perhaps a little irresponsible. Some of her habits that were linked to that identity were heavy drinking, overindulging in less healthy foods for celebrations and comfort and staying out very late while getting little sleep. As one can imagine, those habits are not conducive to running a marathon. Realizing that, Brittany gradually embarked on a training schedule.
The first part of the movie shows Brittany making changes with relative ease. Alas, for entertainment value and to reflect real life, change is rarely that easy. After a while, Brittany started to struggle. She had bad moments and bad months, backtracked with her habits, questioned her values and strengths and swallowed her pride. She struggled with her purpose in making changes, and went through an emotional rollercoaster that ended with the recognition that she could still be quick-witted, easy-going and fun, but with healthier habits.
Two key environmental changes that supported Brittany’s new identity were moving apartments to escape a toxic friendship and making new friends. So why is this important? I recently attended a webinar hosted by the International Coaching Federation on a new-to-me coaching model that includes identity, environment, mindset and aspirations as part of the behavior-change formula. This movie reinforced the connection between environment, identity and change showing the emotional turmoil Brittany experienced while trying to balance her old identity that was expected by her roommate and then surrounding herself with people who were truly supportive and accepting of who she was.
I am not saying that one needs to move or rehaul their social network in order to be happier and healthier; I am, however, saying that making behavior changes without addressing one’s environment (and identity, aspirations and mindset) is likely to result in a power struggle between new habits and old, familiar habits that keep the status quo.
At the end of the movie, Brittany was happier, healthier, more confident and felt like she was in control of her life.
I can help you move toward the identity that reflects your values and strengths. We can channel your inner-Brittany so that you have a clear picture of who you want to become and set up your environment to support your behaviors that set the foundation, allowing you to live your best while being your best.
