Livin' Lean Topic Tuesday: The Real Reason for Livin' Lean

Although I can't provide you with any accurate statistics on the matter, it would be safe to say that most diets begin with a negative criticism of one's physical self. We don't like the way our behinds look in a bikini. Or we cringe at the sight of our arm that keeps waving good-bye even though our hand has stopped. These physical attributes that we label as imperfections are the driving force in what tells us to restrict our diets, join the gym or even explore more drastic measures of physical change. Believe me, I know. I have been known to think in this way from time to time. But what I have grown to understand over the years is that when it all boils down to it, none of that stuff really matters.

So what does matter? Why bother exercising and eating well if not to make yourself look better? I'll tell you why. Because life is too short as it is. Each day is a blessing and if I can help my chances of gaining more days by taking care of myself, then I am going to do it. Life has given me an incredible family, loyal friends, an amazing husband and a daughter that has taught me what life is all about. Taking care of ourselves and our families is one thing that we can control in a world where there are so many things that we cannot. Eating well, exercising; this is all part of an effort to stay healthy and enjoy life for as long as we can. Having a kick-ass body to walk around in is just the added bonus. It is not the main motivation.

In my opinion, gym commercials should depict images of everyday people, like you and me, enjoying an active life. Aside from seeing shots of people in the gym, commercials need to show people playing in the yard with their kids, riding bikes on the beach, playing tennis with their friends, taking hikes in beautiful places...all the fun things we can do in life when we are fit and healthy. These are the things that can truly motivate people to get movin'; realistic goals everyone can attain. Six-pack abs can be a pretty sweet reward for eating well and working out, but it's not the real reason for livin' lean. The real reason resides in giving yourself the best life ever. I see my reason every morning; waking up to my husband and daughter and being thankful for being given the gift of another day. If that's not a good reason for livin' lean, then I don't know what is.

Make today a fabulous one!