Listen to Your Heart

It’s also the month of love, with Valentine’s Day reminding us to cherish those closest to us. But what better way to show love—not just for others, but for yourself—than by prioritizing your health?

The truth is, we don’t need just one day or one month to focus on our loved ones and our well-being. Our hearts and minds must work together. The desire to lose weight and adopt healthier habits needs to be as strong as our desire for food. Do you see the image in the mirror the same way you see yourself in your mind? Which version of yourself do you want to embrace and become?

‍

Keep Your Motivation Strong

Motivation needs to last longer than a few moments, a few days, or even a few weeks. That’s why it’s crucial to constantly revisit your reasons for wanting to be in a healthier body.

• Don’t focus on obstacles—focus on possibilities. As you lose weight, you’ll lighten your emotional load, gain self-respect, and feel both physically and mentally stronger.
• Shift your mindset to what you can have, not what you’re giving up. Learning about nutrition and making healthier versions of your favorite foods can make all the difference. My Thursday morning meetings always end with food finds, and members love it!
• Celebrate what you gain while losing weight. A healthier body, better-fitting clothes, more energy, confidence, and improved well-being—all of these are wins! Guilt, self-doubt, and loneliness no longer have a place in your journey.
• Make small successes count. Some days, baby steps are all we can manage, and that’s okay. Perfection isn’t the goal—progress is.

‍

Find Balance in Your Nutrition

To succeed in what may be the most important endeavor of your life, commit to learning how to think, eat, and live in a new way. Nutrition, portion control, and making informed choices can transform your health.

While some diet plans promote eliminating entire food groups, this isn’t always advisable unless discussed with a physician. Of course, if you have allergies, food sensitivities, or medical conditions, you must prioritize your overall health. But a balanced approach—including the right proportions of fats, proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals—is key.

Years ago, I followed a very restrictive diet that labeled carbohydrates as the enemy. Other than one serving of fruit a day and a few vegetables, my meals were almost entirely protein-based. Did I lose weight? Yes. But it wreaked havoc on my body. Many members of the program experienced hair loss and hormonal imbalances. That’s when I realized the importance of understanding what my body truly needed for long-term health.

‍

Your Health is the Best Gift

No one can stop you from succeeding except yourself. Every thought and intention can turn into action—helping you build a body, heart, and mind that are in harmony. The best gift you can give yourself and your loved ones is a healthier, happier YOU.

‍