Just Start!

I'm often inspired by the people I see on a day-to-day basis; whether they have discovered strategies to change their eating patterns or have overcome a great obstacle, I'm constantly amazed at the power of positive thinking and the ability to change. Making choices is what drives our everyday lives...we make hundreds of choices each day: what to wear, what time to leave the house, how to approach a colleague, etc. While many of these choices are almost subconscious, there are certain choices we make that take a lot of time, effort and emotional energy. The choice to begin the journey towards a healthier lifestyle is one of these 'tough choices.' It takes determination, willpower and strength, but the end result is worth every moment of the journey.

Over the past couple of months, I've been inspired by a group of individuals who made the choice to increase their physical activity. Each Saturday morning, we all met to walk through the experimental farm and arboretum. Despite things like time constraints, injuries, nerve damage and sickness, these people persevered and walked as a group with one common goal: to enhance their journey towards a healthier lifestyle! On May 24, some of these individuals participated in the National Capital Race Weekend, completing either the 5km or 10km distances. I walked the 5k with a group of our patients, and was honoured to share in the adrenaline, excitement and exhilaration of crossing the finish line with them.

Amongst a sea of over 7000 people, 9 of us huddled together anticipating the starting gun. One lady, a high school teacher, had never experienced anything like this before in her life. Despite painful sciatica, she braved the crowds and walked her first 5k race at a pace that I could barely keep up with! Another lady and her boyfriend accomplished the race together, and she even sprinted at the end! Another lady walked so fast I lost track of her within the first 5 minutes of the race; she crossed the finish line with her own cheering section in the sidelines: her kids and husband had come out to show their support! Yet another lady took off in a run up the initial hill in the first 500m of the race. This woman has lost 150 lbs, and is one of the most inspiring, motivating individuals I have ever met. She not only "pumped up" our group before the race, but continually supported and energized our weekly walking group as well. Her two friends also finished the race with outstanding results. Another lady, the only one of our patients to accomplish the 10k, braved a sea of over 8000 people even though she "doesn't like crowds!" Well, she finished that 10k despite foot pain and cool conditions, and crossed the finish line at an outstanding time to receive her medal with pride!

Each and every one of these individuals reminded me that we can accomplish any goal if we put our mind to it. It's making the CHOICE to move towards that goal that's tough. Once you make the CHOICE, and DECIDE to take action, the next step is to make small changes in your life that move you towards your ultimate goal.

It's difficult to push ourselves out the door, but the inherent rewards are huge. It's not just about burning calories; it's about decreasing stress, clarifying obstacles in the brain and just plain feeling good about our physical selves. The hardest part, for all of us, is STARTING. Think beyond your fatigue. Think beyond the T.V. Think beyond your present situation. Look at the long-term results of increased muscle strength, better balance, stronger bones and improved mood. For many of us, the thought of "exercising" seems daunting and intimidating. Start off small: try walking around the block or to the end of your street. Once you've accomplished that, increase your time and distance in small increments. You'll be amazed at how much you'll improve, just by taking small steps in the right direction.

So, first make the CHOICE to change your lifestyle habits. Once you've made that choice, write down the GOALS you want to achieve. Then, make the small CHANGES in your life that will move you in the right direction. Never lose sight of what you want to achieve. You can accomplish anything if you think positively and tell yourself YOU CAN DO IT! Don't ever give up on yourself despite life's untimely setbacks. You can ALWAYS get back on track, no matter what!