The question I'm asked the most: "What's your secret?"

Lately it seems I keep hearing the same question over & over.  "What's your secret?" People will whisper that question to me as if I'm hiding something from the world or they'll ask someone close to me looking to learn the "real reason" behind my decision to get healthy.  I admit this has shocked me.  Not sure that I ever thought anyone would ask that.  It's as if they're looking for a magic bullet or pill to make it easier. 

The truth is there is no secret.  It's good old fashion hard work.  Nothing glamorous...nothing spectacular...nothing special. We're talking about exercise & healthy eating habits.  I know that's boring & lacks pizazz but it really is a simple as that.  At least it sounds simple.  We all know that the hard part is committing to it & taking those first few steps each and every day.  Deciding to take care of myself & achieve my long time goal of completing the 3 day was simple.  Committing to it was the hard part.  It's what challenges me every day. 

Funny thing is that the physical strain seems so much easier than the mental changes & challenges in this.  I hear people say they're inspired by me or in awe of what I'm accomplishing.  While that's flattering it's not anything special.  It is simply the decision to make a change, to take care of myself, love myself, and give back to a cause so close to my heart.  Yes, I feel powerful & proud each time I meet a new challenge in this journey but it's nothing special.  Fighting cancer is special.  Putting on the brave face necessary to live through treatment is special.  Choosing to live is special. 

So in case you're wondering what my "secret" is to getting healthy, don't.  Instead look inside yourself  & find what makes you want to be better.  Commit to loving yourself enough to treat your body with respect & care.  Set goals that will push you to go just beyond what you think you can reach & reward yourself with healthy choices.  Remind yourself that eating right and exercising isn't punishment, it's how we take care of ourselves & how we build strong bodies/spirits that can take on anything.  And stop looking for "the secret" & instead simply do the work.