The Trump Election Campaign Guide to Health & Wellness.
5 Takeaways from the Trump Presidential Campaign you might as well use to deliver on your health & wellness goals
Love him or hate him, he won convincingly. So, what did I learn?
Not in the political or campaign sense. But what can the collective learn from an experienced and smart team, and their strategies that helped deliver a US presidential election?
We applied the Trump campaign playbook to health, and these were the parallel results. You be the judge.
Trump campaign playbook - Top 5 takeaways
- Understanding core needs.
- Clear and direct messaging.
- Consistency and reinforcement.
- Using media and technology.
- Building a strong support network.
1. Understanding and appealing to core needs
CAMPAIGN #1Trump’s campaign tapped into the core concerns and desires of a significant portion of the American population. He created a movement based on shared values and beliefs. He didn’t try to appeal to everyone. His core question that resonated was "Are you better off now than you were four years ago?"
HEALTH #1
What are your core motivations for getting healthier?
- Do you want more energy to keep up with friends or kids?
- Looking to feel more confident with your shirt off?
If reducing cholesterol levels for example is important, focus on reducing junk food in your diet, and ask yourself: will I be better off in 4 years time if I reduce my junk food intake? We both know the answer already.
2. Clear and direct messaging.
CAMPAIGN #2
Trump was able to deliver very, very simple messages that resonated.
Think, "Make America great, again". By keeping the messaging direct and simple, he made complex issues approachable and understandable, and he created an emotional connection.
HEALTH #2
We know setting clear goals is essential. Now try adding a simple, but clear and memorable mantra that supports #1 above, such as: “Fitter stronger every day, every year”, or “Fuel. Walk. Sleep. Repeat”. Don't overcomplicate it. Focus on a straightforward approach that aligns with your needs and values in #1. Take a few days to settle on one that works for you and resonates with you.
For example, committing to, and adding “10,000 steps a day” or “a healthy breakfast every morning” to your routine is both clear and achievable, leading to longer-term success.
3. Consistency and reinforcement.
CAMPAIGN #3
Repeating core messages, everywhere. The repetition ensured key points stayed top-of-mind for supporters. This made it easy for people to remember the vision and goal.
HEALTH #3
Consistency is key. Reinforcing and delivering healthy behaviours will keep goals on track. Write down your mantra, and put it in a visible area, like on your fridge or bathroom mirror.
Plan your exercise workouts and do them consistently. The more you repeat, write down, and do your health actions, the more likely they are to become ingrained habits.
4. Using media & technology.
- Use a smartwatch, a smart scale, or fitness and wellness apps to develop workout plans, track progress, set goals, and stay motivated.
- Decide what works for you, and what you need. Do some research if you're not sure. Ask a friend.
- Engage with online health communities, where you can find support, share achievements, and get advice.
5. Build a strong support network.
HEALTH #5Having a support system can make all the difference in reaching your health goals.
Find friends or family members who share your health aspirations, or join a local fitness group, for example, a walking group or triathlon club. A support network provides organised events, accountability and motivation, and celebrating small victories together can be hugely rewarding.
Summary
Health and politics may seem worlds apart, the principles behind successful campaigning and achieving better health are not that far apart.
Have clear goals, be consistent, use technology, and build a support network.
In the same way a campaign rallies for votes, rally for your own health.