10 wellness shifts that amplified my motivation to live
As the year ends, it’s the perfect time to reflect—not just on what we’ve accomplished, but on how we’ve truly lived each day. I believe the most meaningful gift you can give yourself is to embrace your own story.
1. Wake up with a deeper purpose—and let it help you age well
Even if your life purpose isn’t fully clear yet, it exists. It may be caring for your loved ones, helping others through your work, or supporting people so they can live more meaningful lives—sources of motivation that deepen as you age.
Purpose also shows up in how you care for your body. Train, not just to build muscle, but to develop balance, coordination, and agility that make daily life easier. Eat, not only to look good, but to feel strong and energized. Sleep well so you can show up fully the next day.
2. Shift your approach: From losing to gaining more
Let go of a weight-loss mindset driven by vanity, and focus instead on gaining strength, energy, and life. Constant attempts to lose weight—especially through extreme dieting—can drain energy, reduce muscle and bone mass, and ultimately compromise long-term health and longevity.
3. Find clarity and stability in your natural fluctuations
As you enter new life stages—such as perimenopause—your body sends signals that deserve careful attention. Energy levels, moods, cravings, and recovery may shift due to natural hormonal changes. Take the time to observe and understand what’s happening.
Once you’re aware, seek guidance from experienced professionals, educate yourself further, and avoid quick fixes that could worsen these fluctuations. Address these changes one step at a time to build consistency in your habits.
4. Use trends wisely—don’t follow everything you see online
Not every trend you see online is right for you. Focus on science-backed trends (supported by research, expert guidance, and safe protocols), rather than copying influencers who may not consider your individuality.
Even credible trends need to be applied thoughtfully. Ask yourself: Does this align with my goals, lifestyle, finances, preferences, health history, personality, and values? If it does, it’s more likely to give you meaningful results.
5. Train your mind and body to have a good relationship with food
Weight-loss medications can be helpful for those who genuinely need medical support, especially when excess weight is already affecting health. But for most people, relying on these drugs or following fad diets can take away an essential skill: cultivating a healthy relationship with food—a foundation for lasting weight management.
Instead of following strict diet rules, focus on mindful, purposeful, and satisfying eating. Choose nutrient-dense meals, support gut health, boost immunity and energy, and leave you feeling truly fulfilled, which naturally leaves less room for unhealthy foods.
6. Manage your energy and focus on what truly matters
Prioritize managing your energy to build a foundation that makes stress more manageable and wellness goals more achievable. Remove situations, habits, and commitments that drain you, and make recovery non-negotiable.
Protecting your energy is essential for both your physical health and overall well-being. Doing so not only saves time and reduces stress but also directs your energy, time, and finances toward what truly matters: your health, relationships, and personal growth.
7. Shape your environment for success
Your surroundings play a powerful role in achieving your wellness goals. Decluttering your space can help you feel more empowered and focused. Create a dedicated area at home for workouts to make exercising easier and more convenient—even a focused 10-minute session with a good room temperature can encourage healthier habits, better sleep, and more energy.
Before the year ends, stock your home with nourishing foods, remove items that hinder your health, and set yourself up for a simpler, more intentional start to the new year.
8. Celebrate your relationships with a healthy body and mind
Now is the perfect time to integrate wellness into your moments with loved ones. Practice moderation in eating, be mindful of alcohol, and prioritize movement and recovery. The reason we care for our health is so we can truly enjoy life with the people we care about.
Feeling energized, resilient, and free from unnecessary stress elevates these moments, reflecting the rewards of the wellness work you’ve done all year. Celebrate life fully, explore the world, weave fitness into your adventures, and share these experiences with family, friends, pets, and even new connections.
9. Achieve life balance by letting go of perfection
Rethink what balance really means. It’s not about creating a perfectly organized plan for every aspect of life and checking off boxes. Proper balance comes from training your mind, heart, and body to be flexible in every moment.
Life is full of uncertainties—your hormones fluctuate, relationships shift, and what felt perfect yesterday may feel completely different today. The key is learning how to navigate these changes with adaptability and a grounded mindset.
10. Be the inspiration you want to see
Share your journey—whether by talking to others, posting on social media, or writing about it—and don’t keep your experiences to yourself. Celebrate your wins, acknowledge your setbacks, and embrace the lessons you’ve learned.
You don’t need to be the best; what matters is how you face challenges, one step at a time, with a positive attitude, perseverance, and gratitude, such as wellness stories that focus on the process, a running milestone achieved after decades of effort, or a parent empowering their children through resilience.
When your actions align with your values, even in small ways, they create meaningful impact in the world around you.
