Defining Supportive Environments

Physical and social environments are important determinants of long-term behavior change. When the environment supports the desired change it is easier to commit to change and to stay on track. Therefore, it is important to assess the current environment and to find and/or create more supportive environments.

What comes to mind when you think of a supportive physical environment? Maybe a tropical paradise comes to mind. However, we are looking for something far less exotic. For example, if healthy eating is the goal, we want attractive, nutritious and tasty foods readily available. We want the vending machines, restaurants and grocery stores to feature foods that are consistent with our goals. Consider some of the following factors when thinking about finding appropriate physical environments.

Cultural Norms

The desired healthy lifestyle practice would be "the way we do things around here." People would be surprised if someone were to violate the health norm. The positive norm would be integrated into policies and procedures such as reward systems, training, modeling and communication systems. In a supportive fitness-oriented household culture, for example, housemates would talk about their daily exercise plans and share responsibilities so that everyone gets time for physical activity. Housemates would share tips about running, biking and other interests. Fitness achievements would be rewarded and recognized.

Cultural Climate

Personal change is much easier in a friendly and cohesive social environment. When people don't get along, it is difficult to focus on personal growth. Three climate factors (a sense of community, a shared vision and a positive outlook) facilitate individual and organizational change. The sense of community provides for trust and openness. A shared vision enables people to be inspired by a common direction. A positive outlook makes it possible to use individual and collective strengths in meeting challenges. Finding or creating a healthy climate is a critical skill for lifestyle improvement. In addition, these factors have their own health and quality-of-life benefits.

Health Buddies

A health buddy is someone who will be making a similar lifestyle change at the same time. Adopting positive practices is often easier and more enjoyable with someone else. For example, someone beginning a new exercise routine could join a friend or family member in their exercise routine. Such a joint commitment tends to increase the likelihood of staying with it. In a supportive environment people have one or more such health buddies. 

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Learn more about supportive environments by clicking on the Wellness Mentor Training Video link below.

© 2007 Human Resources Institute, LLC

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