I don’t know why, but accountability seems like such a heavy word. Doesn’t it? Probably why it can be so effective: the fact that one will have to tell someone else if they’ve completed the thing s/he said they would complete. Or didn’t. Who wants to admit to not completing something? But there are ways of making it fun or making it more a commitment to one’s self.
It’s January. So coming from the point of view of getting back to – or starting – a yoga practice, the fun pieces can come from connecting with classmates and teachers. There have been times over the years where something’s come up and I thought I might miss class. Then I thought about how I told a friend I practice next to or the teacher that I’d “see them next week” in the last class.
Certainly in life, unavoidable things can – and will – come up. But when they do, I think of that “see you next time” comment and it’s encouraged me to really evaluate what came up against the benefits I’ll feel if I go (movement, calm, community)? Can the thing wait?
Often for me…yes.
Making plans to take a class with friends is also a great way to try a new studio (you’ll already know someone in class!) or taking classes during a very busy period, like the holidays. Make an afternoon of it! See what’s around the studio to take a class and then get coffee or lunch after.
When it comes to the self, commitment can be encouraged by a financial component. Many studios offer class packs for X number a month or over a few months. There’s often an option for unlimited classes at monthly rate. Since I’ve paid for the classes, I definitely want to take them. The set number per month or for say, 3 months, already tells me how many I need to take to have met my financial commitment. With trying an unlimited pass, I’ll estimate the minimum number of classes that I need to meet if calculated by the drop-in rate (at least, this is how I’ve done it in the past).
This has encouraged me to get to class even during those busy periods (I want to not “lose out” on what I’ve paid!). But it’s also a fantastic way to commit to a studio introduction: take different class styles, different teachers to really get introduced to the new studio. It can take more than one visit and/or one class to see if a practice and a studio are for you.
There are numerous articles popping up this time of year about how long it may take to develop a habit. Not only are these ideas to be accountable to one’s self when life happens, but also if trying something new and wanting to make sure to give the “thing” a good chance.
Since I practice at and write for The Mat, I can highlight their pricing page online or for information on class packages and monthly rates. And talking with a teacher after a first class is a great way to learn more, and also ask other questions you may have about the studio or classes.
This is the part of a series of posts for The Mat Yoga Studio, sharing my thoughts and observations as a student only. The views and opinions are my own experience.
