Storming, Norming and Performing

There comes a point, sooner or later, where you accept the fact that you can’t go it alone. And then you turn to someone, a friend, a family member, or a program like RevEx, because you’re down for a serious overhaul. 

But there are obstacles that will crop up, one way or the other, on the way to your transformation. If Moses can get through it on his way through the Red Sea, you can get through it on your way to a new you.

Way back in 1965, a guy by the name of Bruce Tuckman came up with the stages of group development: Forming – Storming – Norming – Performing. His theory was that a group had to go through these stages in order to become a kick-butt, cohesive team.

The same idea applies to making a transformation in your life, whether it’s a new job or a new exercise and diet regimen.

Storming

Like the name implies, this one is all about raging against outside forces. People fear change, and let’s face it, your body and your life are going through a heck of a change.

You’ve got all these workouts you’re doing. You’ve got this new food plan you’re eating. The kids are screaming and you only had six hours of sleep last night. It’s natural to want to rebel.

“Hold up. I can’t eat ice cream? Not even on my cheat day? WTF???”, you might ask of your RevEx client manager. “Why do we have to run before and after burpees? F burpees!”

Norming

So you’ve been doing this for a few weeks now. And it’s not so bad. It’s become second nature to look for a source of 30 or so grams of protein with every meal. A gallon of water a day? No sweat.

You’re getting used to those workouts that used to make you want to throw up. Heck, you’re looking forward to them. It’s getting to the point where you almost need them in order to get through your day.

You’re weekly photos are starting to show some results. You actually start to crave cottage cheese.

Performing

The Red Sea is closing behind you and it’s time to sink or swim. But that’s OK, because you are starting to FEEL this. Like a distance runner who has found his groove, this is starting to feel easy.

You’ve received diet and workout tweaks from your client manager and you’ve got your eating down. More veggies? Yeah, I’ve got your veggies right here. You say I need more protein in order to keep up with my lean body mass? Here you go, food log. More protein.

The burpees aren’t bad at all. Where before, 10 made you wish you were dead, now 15 feel downright comfortable. You look forward to heading over to Gold’s or 24 to get your homework in. You’ve got your eyes on the prize.

The pounds are just falling. That weight goal is within sight!

Check It

Whether it’s your first transformation or your 15^th, the key is knowing what to expect and accepting that it’s not a reflection on you. Just knowing you’re in one of these stages will help you get through it.