Kids These Days

Over the past few months, I've been working with some of my co-workers on their health and fitness, including working with them to overcome the obstacles in their lives to help them reach their goals. Recently, my buddy Luis has been integrating a home fitness video I gave him to get him going, and he also directed his girlfriend toward me so I could coach her as well. Yesterday, he told me how both of them had planned to workout together, but that his girlfriend's mom had some issues with her going to Luis's house. These kids are out of high-school but not 21, and furthermore it would seem that Luis's girlfriend's parents are very protective and conservative. Bummed but not totally discouraged, Luis planned to workout by himself when he got a phone call from his girl. She told him that she told her mom she was going to the library to study, and she told Luis she would use that white lie to excuse her from her home to go to his house as planned. They ended up working out together, and they felt a sense of accomplishment, not to mention the natural feeling of wellness after a great physical challenge.

When he told me this story, I was pleasantly surprised. Looking back to when I was 19 and 20 years old, I would sometimes lie to get out of the house to smoke a cigarette or to do other things I knew my parents wouldn't approve of (sorry mom!), but I definitely would not ever think that I would hear a tale like this one. This is a testament to what your mindset can do for you. Maybe you don't have to lie to get to the gym or work out, but certainly we can all learn from this. Next time you think of all the responsibilities and/or obstacles that seem to be keeping you from getting in your fitness routine for the day, think about this story and then think of a solution for yourself. Let's leave all of our excuses at the door, people, and make it happen. If you have to run errands all day and can only get a short workout in late, do it! If you have to miss your favorite show or decline an invitation to go out drinking so you can get enough sleep and get your workout for the next day in early, do it! Make the decision to put your health first and prioritize your nutrition and fitness before your hobbies and non-essential social events. Your health is worth it! Thanks for reading everyone, and Happy Friday!