I am a big believer in the buddy system. In fact, it’s one of the ways I stay on track in a number of areas of my life from business to healthy-living. Angela, God bless her, wears both hats when it comes to keeping me on track to achieving my goals.
Each Sunday Angela and I email each other our goals for the week and then we talk, Twitter, and email each other throughout the week to make sure we’re staying on track. And, it works. If you don’t have someone like this in your life, FIND ONE. I’d suggest finding someone that has a similar (or better) training style and work ethic that you do, that way you can help one another set and achieve realistic, yet challenging goals.
Week 4 of the BetterU program focuses on the importance of creating social support…the two legged or the four legged kind. In fact, in our lesson this week they reminded us that:
Research shows that dog owners who walk their dogs are more active and have a lower Body Mass Index (healthy weight for height) than people who don’t own or walk their dogs.
I have to say, I’m pretty lucky to have Ang and my dog, Bella, in my life to keep me on the fast track to a BetterMe!
Now I really must go take Bella for a walk and call Angela for a pep talk!


angela says:
March 5th 2010awww…I HEART you 2! i won’t get all mushy on your blog – but i can truly attest to the fact that having you as an accountability buddy has made a positive difference both in my business and in reaching my fitness & nutrition goals. between you and mylo (my 4-legged-furry-friend!), i’m just pretty darn blessed! and to all joanna’s loyal readers: take note. whether it’s a sister, cousin, friend, co-worker, or neighbor – find someone who shares similar goals and values in life and make a pact to help each other get to that next level. we only have one shot here on this earth, so surround yourself with people that help you be your best YOU!
Lance says:
March 5th 2010Very cool Joanna! The buddy system is a great way to stay focused and committed to our goals. And it really sounds like you have a winning relationship with Angela! (and Bella too!!!!)
Miz says:
March 5th 2010I LOVE THAT. And was thinking yesterday how I need more face to face acct partners in my life right now…
Jess (Fit Chick in the City) says:
March 5th 2010You are lucky to have a workout buddy! I know when I just had someone meeting me at 6 am in the park for a run, I was less likely to skip out.
Jessica@HowSweet says:
March 5th 2010I have one friend that seriously keeps me accountable ALL the time. Couldn’t live without her!
Trish @IamSucceeding says:
March 5th 2010Hmm makes me ALMOST want a pooch. :)
The Candid RD says:
March 5th 2010Aww, I can’t wait to get a dog!! I love going on walks with Nick, but when we were dog-sitting for his mom we walked SO MUCH MORE! Once we move and have a nice big yard, we will start saving for a dog. We’re already talk about it and I get so excited just thinking about it!
Have a great weekend Joanna.
Nancy says:
March 5th 2010My buddy is my husband! He’s just as focused as I am in work, finances, fitness, and FUN! :-) He’s my best friend and my best support system. Luckily, I can be the same for him! Plus, he’s a great spotter at the gym! :-) He calls me out if he thinks I’m not working to my potential, and YES, I have no problem calling him out, too. Life wouldn’t be as great if he wasn’t here to share each minute with me.
Samantha Angela @ Bikini Birthday says:
March 5th 2010I definitely wish I had someone to keep me accountable for my workouts.
Heather (Wheres the Beach) says:
March 5th 2010Your pup is so cute! It’s great to have a workout buddy (or buddies)!
Tracey @ I'm Not Superhuman says:
March 5th 2010I could use a new accountability partner. No offense to my husband, but he’s more likely to talk me out of going to the gym than help me get my butt there. Too bad none of my friends go to the same gym as I do. Maybe if my husband gets a personal trainer he’ll be held accountable to him, and I’ll get the benefits of him having a gym appointment.
april says:
March 5th 2010Your lucky to have a workout buddy! I’m one of the only girls at the gym who lifts heavy weights. Ugh!! If you ever wanna text me, I’ll be glad to give you my number! LOL
Heather Morgan says:
March 5th 2010I have so much fun emailing Kas about workouts. Even right now being injured I email if I ran, how I did in the new shoes (trying out Five Fingers), and that I did my mobility and myofascial release and shoulder rehab. So, even if you aren’t full bore at the moment, it still works! I actually have a hired dogwalker during the week. And it sort of makes me jealous that they have that time with MY babies. LOL
Jody - Fit at 52 says:
March 5th 2010A lot of people really need that buddy system & you are lucky to have found one! And that doggie is sooooooooooooo cute!
carrie says:
March 5th 2010that is one fit canine! too cute.
Diane Fit to the Finish says:
March 5th 2010You are very blessed to have friends, both the two legged and the four legged kind!
empower me photo guy says:
March 6th 2010Putting down your goals at the start of every week is such a great idea, it really helps you focus on what you want to achive. I’m glad you have a buddy to help you out, and Im sure you’re providing her with great support in return, too!
FatFighterTV says:
March 9th 2010I totally need an accountability partner, especially in the winter! I am a total slacker when it is cold…