I know it’s the time of year for resolutions but personally I’m not a fan! However, I certainly appreciate the need for renewed inspiration. My motto for 2013 is substitution not resolution!
Having grown up with a father and brother that spent many years as basketball coaches, I have a huge affinity for a coaching framework. One component that sticks hard and fast in my brain is the philosophy of a “strong bench.”
For those not up on the lingo, the bench or substitute players are not in the starting line up, they do however, contribute immensely to the success of the team. In my Dad’s words, “you can’t win consistently without a strong bench.”
I think this is a fabulous way to think about a wellbeing strategy for 2013! Put together a bench team for yourself for the New Year!
In other words, find some key players to substitute for other activities in order to boost your health and wellness. It’s not a question of guilt, but rather a change up in roster for the New Year’s Season! What do you think?
Here are 6 suggestions for a potential substitute player list:
- 30 minutes of reading will sub for 30 minutes of television
- 20 minutes of walking will sub for 20 minutes of surfing the internet
- 10 minutes of quiet time will sub for 10 minutes of news
- 5 minutes of moving will replace 5 minutes of sitting
- Breakfast will substitute for running out the door
- Calling a friend will sub for emailing or texting a friend
Final note
It goes without saying that a successful program, whether in basketball or wellbeing, is about the total package. A combination of strong coaches, dedicated players, supportive fans and community all working together towards the same goal. Gathering your own health and wellbeing bench team might just be a great place to start the 2013 season.
The basketball photo above is courtesy of The Quincy Hearld-Whig, “Stand Up and Cheer: A century of Blue Devils basketball” author Matt Schuckman.
