One of the strongest motivators you have to stay fit should never be about how you look or feel.

It should be about the example you’re setting.

We live in a world that is constantly feeding us cues about how to live our lives. When unhealthy habits surround us we begin to accept them as the norm.

How did everyday breakfasts from fast food joints become normal? How did skipping the gym become normal? How did ignoring your mental health & stress become normal? It became normal because everyone else you know is doing it too. It becomes so routine that we don’t think about it anymore.

Until it becomes your new normal.

Here is where you have the opportunity to change that.

By choosing to eat better (Cook more at home), stay active (even when you’re tired from work), and focus on bettering your mental health (by taking the time to unwind and relax), you are raising the bar around you. You may not see it happening, but others will. Friends will start asking you about what you’re doing differently. Family will start to notice the habits they’ve adopted. Taking your kids for walks instead of playing video games? Drinking water instead of soda? These small changes can make a world of difference to those around you.

You don’t have to be perfect. You don’t have to shove your lifestyle in everyone’s face. Lead by example, and let your actions speak for themselves.

The better choices you make today not only better you, they better everyone around you tomorrow. You’re proving that it can be done. You’re proving that it’s realistic. And most importantly you’re proving that it’s worth it.

The standard you set today will one day affect not only you, but your kids, their kids, and every other person you come in contact with. Raise the bar. One small choice at a time.