Childhood obesity is such a problem in today’s world and a huge concern is that there are currently so many children who are over weight, that it is hard to tell what is normal, anymore. Isn’t that sad! We can roll that over into adults as well. What is normal anymore? Our ego or body based intellect is always in the process of comparing ourselves to others around us. As with many things in life, if everything looks “normal” then it’s hard to see that there are any “problems”. However, if we look a little deeper into ourselves, we begin to see things in a different light. And, if we look still deeper, we can see things even clearer.
We need to be the ones to set the examples of what is “normal” and “healthy” of our body through intellectual and spiritual awareness. Our approach to how we see health and fitness is not just a temporary change but rather a life lasting lifestyle that leads to a healthier, more robust and happier way of life, all around. As a personal trainer, nutritional specialist and fitness professional, I have seen that the single most important part of achieving a successful health and fitness lifestyle change is setting realistic goals. Here is the R in “s.m.a.r.t”!
Goals are personal choices, which we set to accomplish individual desires. Goals are widely varied, and are set by us for many different reasons. But a goal to is only a wish unless we actively put into motion those things that need to be done to proceed toward that goal. It is that part of our mind that determines whether or not we have the genetics to achieve our goal; the determination to find out what to do and the dedication to stick with our plan. For ultimate success in achieving our goals we need: Desire, Determination and Dedication.
Our bodies are predestined to live, grow, be active and stay healthy. What prevents us from achieving a specific desire or goal is our selves. We place obstacles in the path of that dream or goal. What is stopping us from removing that obstacle, tackling it and taking on the challenge to move beyond it?
Goals are based on the wants and desires of each individual. If you decide that you cannot achieve a particular goal or desire, you are ensuring that you will not achieve it. You are then setting up a self educed obstacle that will stop you from accomplishing your personal goal.
If we focus on developing our own body to its optimum potential, then we stand a high chance for success. If we try to make our body look like someone else’s, then we leave ourselves open to failure, disappointment and unhappiness. Focus on your own abilities and unique characteristics to achieve maximum results. In this way, you are allowing that personal desire and goal to become a reality and not just a wish!
Great post Gina! When I was at my BF;s folks place this weekend, we were driving around the city and this world in designed for everyone to be obese. There is a donut shop, fast food place, convenience store, and what ever else on EVERY corner! No wonder obesity is such a huge problem. I live in a small town and I should be thankful that we do not have this situation. There is not a temptation everywhere you look…that would drive me crazy. I think for me I am learning just to ignore temptations. LEARNING being the key word!
Kerri, Isn’t it crazy when you look around at how many people are over weight!! Although, if our sport and lifestyle was easy, everyone would do it!! Fast food is everywhere and with everyone so busy all the time, it is ALL about convenience!! That is why we learn how to make it work and cook foods that are convenient and healthy!!
We are so lucky and fortunate to be aware of healthy living and how to avoid the convenience stops, even though our lives are beyond busy!! You do have to avoid those temptations but soon enough they will not be temptations because you wont even have to think twice about avoiding them.. Yes, this is a learning experience… oh so fun 🙂
I totally agree Gina! It saddens me to see all of the children who are innocently being brought up with a “fat” mentality… not knowing the joy of playing all day in the yard and riding bikes all day until the street lights came on… those were the days!
When I go home (a small CO town) and visit my family, whom are mostly overweight, it reminds me of the “old” me and makes me so thankful to be in my present mindset (b/c that’s all it is!!)
That was actually my most important resolution this year: Be Comfortable in MY OWN SKIN!!! Always strive to be the best “ME” I can be, and not compare myself to others. Be true to myself every single day. Aaahhh….. truly accepting that has lifted a HUGE weight off of my shoulders.
Self Trust is the most valuable possession anyone can have.
I know, talk about the old days… play in the street until you hear your parents yell that dinner is being served… Now it is computer games and XBOX… It is so sad. I want to keep the “old days” alive in my family and when I have kids. I am actually excited to be able to raise a child in such a healthy, active family!! I just know how much this does for them in every way!
I am so excited for you and your present mindset, accomplishing your goals every day!
I love your new year’s resolution and if you can stick to it, you will be that much happier of a person. It is amazing how when we take that stress of our shoulders, we feel free!! You go girl! Be you, be real, accept yourself for you and SMILE! 🙂