Many years after I had my kids, I wished and wanted to get back into shape so badly. I wanted to fit into my clothes again and enjoy the process of buying new outfits, and feeling pretty after getting dressed up and ready to go out on the town like I did all those years ago. I just wanted to feel good in my skin and more like myself. More importantly, I knew I needed to get healthy again, for myself and for my family. However, that required change. Changing my lifestyle, my habits, my routines. It required work on my part. Work in the gym, work in the kitchen, and work in my mind. But, at that time, I only dreamt of just magically transforming into the body I desired, without changing my poor eating habits or stepping foot in the gym. I kept telling myself that I would start my health and wellness journey when I was less busy. I didn’t think I had the time to focus on myself. I had ALL the excuses why I had to wait. Finally, one day I had an “aha” moment and decided that it was now or never, and here are 5 things I learned as a result of embarking on my health and wellness journey.

1. Self-care isn’t selfish. Rest and self-care are vital to our overall health. When I take the time to replenish my spirit and care for my body, it allows me to serve others from the overflow. I cannot serve from an empty vessel. It is essential to practice daily self-care. Yes, I said, DAILY. It’s a way of telling yourself that you are valuable and worthy of care, love and respect. It is time that you make yourself a priority. It is time that you give yourself the love and care that you deserve. Remember that when you practice self-care you are showing compassion to yourself. You feel better, your mind is clearer, and it ultimately improves your relationships with others

2. It’s not about how badly you want it. It’s about how hard you’re willing to work for it. You can want it all you want, but if you don’t consistently put in the work, it won’t happen on its own. Wishing, wanting, and waiting doesn’t do anything. You must act and you must be willing to do what is needed to attain the results you desire. You don’t have to be 100% perfect every day, but you need to be 80% consistent over time. Start slowly with small realistic goals and increase them overtime. It isn’t easy, but it is worth it.

3. Nothing changes, if nothing changes. If what you have been doing hasn’t been working to this point, you can’t expect to see different results by continuing to do the same thing. You have to change your habits and mindset. This means you will WANT to make healthier food choices, you will WANT to increase your physical activity, and you will NEED to practice restraint and portion control. Though I don’t believe in a lifestyle of restriction or deprivation, you will need to practice moderation when it comes to those fun foods and beverages. I recommend starting your journey by making small changes; increasing protein and water, moving your body daily (even if for only 15 minutes), add more vegetables to your meals, etc. Over time, these small changes will add up to big results.

4. There will never be a perfect time. We are always going to be busy and there will always be holidays and vacations throughout the year. Life doesn’t stop. It is important to learn how to create good habits, discipline, and a healthy mindset that allows you to work through these times. It is about making the time and your health a priority in your life. If you learn how to live a healthy and sustainable lifestyle during the busiest of times, the rest of the year will be a piece of cake!

5. It is a slow process. It doesn’t happen overnight and there are no quick fixes. If you are losing weight quickly, chances are that it won’t stay off long-term. True fat loss and building muscle is a much slower process that requires far more precision and patience. I know many people would like to reach their goals in 1 or two months, however it may take months to see real signs of progress. For many, it will take years to ultimately reach their final goal. Don’t get frustrated, just know that slow and steady wins the race!

The key to seeing progress and reaching your goals; don’t give up! If things get hard, take a breath and keep moving forward! Be consistent, be disciplined, be patient, be kind to yourself, you will get there!