If Mamma Ain’t Happy, Ain’t Nobody Happy!
Some time ago I read the book, Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. One of the methods the book used to help decide the priorities in your life was a what if you died question. What would your family say about you at your funeral? What would your friends, your boss, your co-workers, your church, etc say? Then the question, what would you like them to say? Then, what do you need to change about yourself and your life to make sure these important people say these things about you? Thus, the conclusion is a mission statement.
As I think back, I have to admit that my mission statement said nothing about my health. I never said, "I want people to think I was really fit, or really pretty, or worked out really hard". Most of my mission was to be a respectable, caring, strong, intelligent person. Someone who promised something and followed through on that promise.
I have pondered how my new habits of eating and working out, that feel so selfish at times, fits into raising my five kids, loving my family, being loyal to my boss and church, etc. This is my conclusion. When I am taking good care of myself physically I have clairity of mind. My focus and drive are stronger. I am a better example to those around me of how to live with strength and freedom.
I am not bettering myself physically so that others will be in awe, or praise my efforts. I do it because I can accomplish goals and be proud of myself. Having low self esteem is more self focused than being healthy. Being comfortable with myself helps me take the focus off myself and direct it towards other people. Being healthy physically is just another important piece of the balance I have found in life.
Perhaps I should add a new statement to my mission for life.
"I will honor my personal commitment to care for myself so that I will be available both physically and mentally when I am called upon to fulfill my duties as a wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend and employee."
August 26, 2008 at 8:43 am
Great post, and very well put.
August 28, 2008 at 10:50 am
Nice, reminds me of right before take off on any airplane they tell you in case of an emergency the oxygen masks will fall, put your own on first before helping others.
I think the idea is once you are solid you will be more available to help the others around you.
Henry Ford,
Before everything else, getting ready is the secret to success.
August 28, 2008 at 11:56 am
Sonya, you might be surprised to know that I am putting this post on the FRONT PAGE of our monthly employee newsletter for September. GREAT JOB! It really moved me, and I think you are 100% right. Bodybuilding and fitness is about much more than just how you look.
Ryan
August 28, 2008 at 3:41 pm
Awesome blog! What a great mission statement.
August 28, 2008 at 3:57 pm
Totally awesome blog!! I have always thought that is the best way to live your life…with the ‘how’ you want to be remembered!! (note: I want my ulogy to also read: Died due to parachute failure while jumping from a plane at 90! lmao)
August 29, 2008 at 5:39 pm
Great blog on why people live a fit lifestyle. It is not so others will say oh they looked great, but to say this person was bettering their health and bettering their outlook on life. I applaud you on your outlook.
I also agree with the reply you left the folks that do one set then sit there for upteen minutes between sets is a killer. I laugh sometimes. Peace.
August 31, 2008 at 7:55 am
Great blog, defintely stated it well. You cannot love and help others, until you love yourself and and have the energy/good health to be able to help them.
Keep up the great blogs and hard work!