Fit For Life: Be The Change You Want To See
Matt Espeut, GoLocalProv Health +Lifestyle Contributor
Fit For Life: Be The Change You Want To See

The good news is that we all have the ability to make changes that will result in self-improvement. Many people just need to change their daily habits, and create a positive mindset. You have two choices, either do something now, or wait until you have no choice, and by then it becomes more difficult.
I prefer being pro-active rather than being reactive, but others don’t always see it that way. They wait until they get sick, or can’t fit into their clothes before changing their lifestyle. I try to encourage people to get and stay healthy BEFORE this happens.
Sometimes it’s a matter of needing something, rather than wanting something. Many folks need pressure in order to correct the problems they have. I always tell people that I can’t want it more than you. Meaning that I can’t want you to be fit and healthy more than you want to be, or the program here at Providence Fit Body Boot Camp won’t work.
Are you worth it?
The people that are most successful are the ones that wake up and look in the mirror, and say to themselves “you are worth it, I am going to take better care of you, before it’s too late”. It works this way with earning money also. Some won’t work hard or change jobs they hate until they are in debt, broke, or so stressed out they require medication. Then they are forced to step up, and make some changes. But others make the choice to not let that happen to them, and they work their butts off to prevent it.
The fact is that you are not alone, and whatever problems you may have, others share your pain. Life is difficult for many of us, and we are going to run into roadblocks that could potentially bring us down daily. Don’t let this be an excuse to let things get out of hand.
First you need to realize the things that need fixing, and if you can’t do it alone, get help. Focus on your goals and what you can do to make yourself better. Don't compare yourself to others. There will always be someone that has it worse than you. Don't compare yourself to them. Stop telling yourself, “I’m 50lbs overweight but my friend is 100lbs overweight, so at least I’m better than that.” This will keep you from accomplishing anything.
Look for positive influence.
When setting goals, you need to look up to someone that will have a positive influence on you, not someone that makes you feel content. Someone always has it better. Also, don't compare yourself to them, either. Not only is that discouraging but you don't know everyone's situation and what appears great on the outside could be fatal on the inside. Someone could look fit, but have family and financial issues. I know a lot of millionaires, and sometimes I let myself feel inferior to them, but when you look deeper, money is all they have, and that’s not the most important thing in life.
I am not a financial advisor, nor am I a therapist, but what I specialize in is getting people both physically and mentally healthy. I do it through movement and good nutrition. I know for a fact that when your health and physique improves, it creates a domino effect in your life for the positive. I also know for a fact that everyone is capable of better health and fitness, and the most common thing that stands in the way, is the way we think. Or don’t think.
So – THINK!
Yes, think - think about where you are now, and think of where you could end up if you continue the lifestyle you are living. Then think of how you can improve it before it’s too late. If it’s fitness and health you are after, drop me a line. Remember it’s better to be pro-active than reactive.

