Your Health Is a Journey, Not a Destination

Health-and-Wellness-Coach-Suzan-Rawlins-shares-Health-Journey-Tips

“Life should not be a journey to the grave to arrive safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, rather, to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming “Wow! What a Ride!” ~ Hunter S. Thompson

The above is one of my favorite quotes of all time. If you know me, I mean really know me, you know that I am all about making memories and enjoying experiences. I do plan to slide in yelling “What a helluva ride!” However, if you know me, you also know that I am all about taking care of this temple of a body that God gracefully blessed me with. So, for me, it is all about balance, and that means staying healthy and creating joy all at the same time. It can happen, I promise.

So, let’s dig in on what I mean by your health is a journey and not a destination. In today’s fast-paced world, we want instant gratification and results right now. That is just not going to happen when it comes to being healthy and living your best life. It is the daily intentional choices we make that add up over time to create either healthy or unhealthy habits. Your health is all about a conscious process of growth, learning, and self-discovery.

Often, we approach health with a specific destination in mind - a certain weight, a particular fitness level, or even a complete absence of illness. However, this mindset can lead to frustration and disappointment, ultimately hindering our progress. I always say to my clients, “Let's go for progress, not perfection.”

You might be young and feeling invincible, you might be starting to age and wondering how your health will hold up, or you may be up there in age and trying to reverse some things. It is never too late to make yourself a priority and nourish your body. You are going to encounter obstacles and challenges as well as wins and accomplishments. The journey to living your most intentional and healthiest life will require patience, perseverance, and willingness to embrace the highs and lows.

Life is about balance. Health is about nourishing our bodies with food, getting intentional movement in our daily lives, and rest or good sleep. It is also about our mental wellness, creating healthy relationships, managing stress, finding joy, and creating memories.

So, as you embark on your health and wellness journey, your mindset is going to be key to success. Start with a willingness to try new things, create sustainable habits, and start small. Small consistent progress will add up to big results. Often, we get caught up in the result we are looking for and forget that the daily work will produce results in time.

Your health journey is yours and unique just like you. Do not get caught in the comparison of how someone else is doing, that will not benefit you. Setting goals for your health is great. I would encourage you to be realistic in your timeline and your abilities, track your progress, and always celebrate your wins. Again, I remind you to go for progress, not perfection. So, if you have a tough day or you don’t do something that aligns with your health goals today, remember, that tomorrow is a new day and a great place to start again. Start over as many times as you have to live your best life. You got this; I believe in YOU!