Written by Madison Jasperson, A.C.E. Certified Personal Trainer
It's 8:30pm and you just got your kids into bed for the night after a day of errands, cooking, cleaning, soccer practice, pick ups, drop-offs, etc... and nothing sounds better than a big ol' chocolate bar and an 4+ episodes of America's Next Top Model to unwind. Can you relate? If so, you're not alone. We all have snacks, habits, or routines that bring us comfort even if they're not particularly healthy choices.
When it comes to fitness and food, our choices are often driven by different reasons. Knowing why we make these decisions can be a game-changer in our journey toward healthier lives by helping us see possible barriers ahead and make plans to work with or around those difficulties. It's like having a roadmap to navigate the twists and turns of your wellness adventure. In this guide, we're going to unpack what four functions of behavior and what they mean in the world of fitness and nutrition.
E.A.T.S.- Four Functions of Behavior
In the fascinating realm of psychology, understanding human behavior is like solving a complex puzzle. Our actions are driven by a multitude of factors, and one powerful lens through which psychologists analyze behavior is by examining its functions. These functions provide insights into why we do what we do, and they serve as fundamental building blocks in understanding our choices. There are four primary functions of behavior: escape, attention, tangible rewards, and sensory satisfaction. They act as the driving forces behind our decisions, shaping our responses to various situations. Now, let's delve into how these functions matter not only in psychology but also in the practical domains of fitness and nutrition, where they hold the keys to making healthier and more informed choices.
Escape: Avoiding the Unpleasant
Imagine you skip a workout because it feels too hard or pass up a healthy meal because it's not your favorite. This is like escaping from something you don't like. While it's okay to take a break sometimes, doing it too often can slow your progress.
To tackle this, set more manageable fitness goals and explore different healthy foods until you find what you enjoy. This way, you can make your fitness and food choices more enjoyable and feel less of a need to escape them. You can also hire a trainer to help you stay on track and hold you accountable.
Attention: Seeking Recognition
We all like some attention, right? Sometimes, people make unhealthy choices to get noticed or receive sympathy from others. But this can be a sign that you need emotional support.
Instead of making unhealthy choices for attention, try talking to friends, family, or a support group. Share your fitness and nutrition journey with people who care about your well-being, and you'll get the support you need in a positive way. If you're looking for a supportive fitness community, join the Happy and Able Facebook Group- a collective of busy women looking to improve their health and fitness so they can take care of the things and people that matter most. Other options include Meet Up groups, community-based health clubs, and the many virtual communities designed to uplift and support your fitness goals.
Tangible Rewards: Getting Something Good
Have you ever treated yourself to a tasty dessert after a workout? That's the tangible rewards function in action. It's about rewarding yourself with something nice when you achieve a fitness or food goal. But be careful not to overdo it.
Instead of reaching for unhealthy treats, think of other rewards that match your healthy lifestyle. Maybe it's a new workout outfit or a day at the spa. These rewards can help keep you motivated without derailing your progress.
Sensory Satisfaction: Pleasing Your Senses
Lastly, some choices are all about making your senses happy. This includes mindless snacking because you like the crunch of chips, or picking workouts that you find fun. It's important to satisfy your senses, but it should be balanced.
To make the most of this function, try out different healthy foods and exercises that you genuinely like. Explore tasty fruits and veggies, and find workout activities that excite you, like dancing or hiking.
In the grand tapestry of life, our choices around fitness and food play a significant role. By recognizing the driving forces behind our actions - be it the need to escape, seek attention, enjoy tangible rewards, or satisfy our senses - we can pave a smoother path to healthier living.
As we wrap up our exploration of these behavior functions, remember that you're not alone in this journey. Many individuals, including other busy women and anyone with a hectic schedule, face similar challenges. The key is to acknowledge these functions, embrace the positive aspects, and adapt where necessary. Take small steps, set achievable goals, and build a support network that can provide the encouragement and accountability needed to thrive.
With these insights in your toolkit, you're well-equipped to make more informed choices in your fitness and nutrition journey. So, go ahead, embrace a healthier, happier you, and share this knowledge with others on a similar path. Together, we can create a world where wellness is not a destination but a way of life.
-Madison
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