I asked my secretary, Kara Russell, who is really into fitness and wellness to share with me an idea for a future story. She graciously agreed to do so. Her thoughts were so encouraging and thought-provoking that I wanted to share them with our readers. I know that many of you will be able to relate and feel validated after reading the article. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have. Thanks Kara, for all you do and for the high priority you give to your personal health and well-being – without apologies.

Are you familiar with the butterfly effect? It is a concept that Edward Lorenz introduced in 1972. Quite simply it says that if a butterfly flapped its wings in one part of the world, the effect could be felt on the other side of the globe. We may be making more of an impact on those around us then we realize.

You’ve without a doubt been working harder at eating better and exercising more. All of the small changes you are making are working toward a larger overall change in your appearance, lifestyle, or both. You may also be imposing some of your newfound ways on those around you.

Think about your work environment: have you been declining more of the morning donuts? Are you skipping lunch with co-workers to eat a healthier meal from home? Your co-workers may be taking notice and, consequently, feeling bad about their own habits. Do not feel guilty when they tell you that one donut won’t hurt you or that fried chicken is what you have always eaten for lunch on Fridays. Stay the course and the tiny flaps of your butterfly wings may become the storm that they’ve needed to make changes themselves.

What about your home environment? Have your children or spouse (or both) been complaining about all the vegetables and baked foods? Have you given up some of your TV time for exercise? While your children and/or spouse may be resistant to the new dinner options, you are teaching them how to eat properly and you are improving their health (even if only a little). That exercise that you’re doing is good for everyone, too. The younger your children are, the more impact it will have on their lifestyles when they go bike riding with a parent, or even just to see one- or both- of their parents engaged in physical activity. Maybe seeing you indulging in a good sweat will motivate your partner to workout with you, too.

It’s easy to allow others to make us feel guilty for living better. People don’t want to look at the things that they need to improve on or do better. Remember, though, that it wasn’t an easy decision to get started on the path you’re on. Keep working hard and let your transformation be someone’s inspiration.

Thoughts to ponder:

• The difference between try and triumph is just a little umph! Marvin Phillips:
• The road to success is dotted with many tempting parking places. Author unknown
• You don't drown by falling in the water. You drown by staying there. Author unknown: