As if.

“Lead, follow, or get out of the way.”

Someone close to me says this regularly in the best way possible. I wish more people had the chance to have this as a mantra in the back of their minds, because collaboration, vision, and moving forward for the greater good while having personal success are related to this.

It’s ok to lead, assuming you are going somewhere good and want everyone involved to succeed.

It’s ok to follow, assuming who you’re following cares for you.

It’s ok to get out of the way if you don’t want to be in charge, just don’t be a roadblock.

What/who motivates you?

Are you afraid or excited?

Angry or curious?

Have a little sass with your class as you consider why you are making the choices you do.

It’s ok to say goodbye to a situation where you are not valued or can’t care for yourself/others.

It’s ok to stumble while you are trying to transform your eating and/or activity habits. Routine and habit are comfortable. Starting a weight training program makes your muscles “sing” in ways you may never have imagined.  Saying no to food that is delicious because you don’t need the extra portion means you have to have restraint. Some of these choices are a challenge, especially when others around you aren’t ready to make them for themselves.

I saw a fun quote on pinterest that said something like never let someone be in charge of your decisions who doesn’t have to deal with the consequences. Remember those two words: “as if” the next time someone tries to tell you how to manage your health if they have no business doing so. Mentally push their “advice” out of your head.

Assume good intentions from most, and simply smile as they tell you what to do. No need to get into it. They probably mean well.

Learn from your healthcare providers. You aren’t going to an accountant for foot surgery, and you certainly wouldn’t take a cooking class from someone who doesn’t know how to cook.

You deserve an expert team.

You deserve to make your own health-related choices and allow others to do the same.

You deserve to take the time to eat well, exercise, and sleep enough.

Do your thing. Learn what you need to so you feel good about your choices, and remember you are human and there are certain things we need to do to take care of ourselves. Yes, doing things differently means things will be, well, different. Isn’t that what you want if you are “always” talking about food/exercise/health?  Yep. And you know what? You’ll still be you, regardless of what path to health you choose to take. That’s what’s awesome and weird all at the same time.

How will you be you this week?