If you’ve read my story, you know that I never intentionally set out on a fitness journey. I sort of stumbled into this lifestyle one small change at a time, and my biggest motivator is progress of a n y kind. One of the first aspects of my lifestyle to change was my activity level. I made movement a habit and almost immediately F E L T better. Wellness journey – kickstarted.

At 21 years old, when I began my first year of teaching, I did most of my teaching sitting down – totally against every best practice I believed in, but I was tired and lazy. I got home from work and ate pita chips and spinach dip until they were just about gone, and then went out to dinner and enjoyed a drink or two with friends. Every day. Thinking back on this makes me cringe. I was comfortable doing a whole lot of nothing, and I packed on the pounds [and the misery] pretty quickly.

I wanted to make a change, but I had no idea how/where to start. So, I started walking. A lot. I figured I couldn’t go wrong here. I got obsessed with my Fitbit and was determined to hit my step goal every day. I walked around my neighborhood, around the playground at recess, on the treadmill, etc . . . any chance I could get. You guys – almost instantly, like not even a week later, I started to feel SO much better. I had more energy in the classroom, and I was not nearly as exhausted when I got home from work. Even better? I didn’t even want to eat the pita chips and spinach dip or drink 4 beers [understatement] every night. My eating habits began to change and hellooooo progress! My body was changing, I was feeling better, and I was hooked.

Over time [slowly] I embraced a lifestyle of movement and activity. Here’s how I make m o v e m e n t a priority every day:

1. I stand up every chance I get throughout the day.
2. Walk around – in the classroom, through the building, up and down the stairs, at recess, etc . . .
3. Park farther away [those spots are never taken].
4. Date day usually involves something active – hiking, exploring a new place on foot, walking around the neighborhood, etc . . . Groupon has great deals on the fun stuff, and these make the best memories!
5. Accountability. It helps to have people holding you accountable, and I’m super thankful for my people. Looking to join one? Click here!
6. Exercise. I wake up and head to the gym first thing in the morning, but if you’re not here yet – stick with the first 5. You’ll get here!

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Small changes – one at a time – turned into a lifestyle that I truly enjoy. Don’t overwhelm yourself. Pick one thing, and start there. S o m e t h i n g is better than nothing. Here are the first five changes I made. Choose one to focus on this week, and add on the others as you’re ready.

What are you working towards this week? I’d love to cheer you on!

XO, Kristen