In Element 07, we explore the exciting journey of creating a new leptogenic world. This element is all about empowering you to make simple yet profound changes in your surroundings, setting the stage for healthier choices and ultimately, a healthier you.

The objective of Element 07 is clear — to support you in crafting an environment that fosters your journey toward optimal health. By aligning your environment with your food choices, you can optimize your wellbeing and implement strategies to transform your surroundings into a leptogenic haven.

The best part? With each small victory, you'll feel increasingly more empowered as you move throughout this transformative process!

So, what does creating a leptogenic world entail? It starts with a conscious effort to declutter your pantry, refrigerator and freezer of items that don't serve your health goals. By removing temptations and stocking up on nutritious options, you pave the way for success on your wellness journey.

But it doesn't stop there. I’m here to support you in implementing sustainable strategies that make healthy choices second nature, whether you're dining in or out. From meal planning to mindful eating practices, OPTAVIA’s lifestyle program equips you with the tools you need to thrive in any environment.

By embracing Element 07, you're laying the foundation for long-term health and wellbeing. And throughout this process, I’m here to offer support and encouragement every step of the way.

So, let's embark on this journey together. Let's embark on Lifelong Transformation, Making a Healthy Lifestyle Second Nature, one healthy choice at a time, as we create a leptogenic world where we can all thrive.

Here's to your health and vitality!

As March comes to an end, now can be a good opportunity to revisit your previous goals to see what you’ve achieved and add new goals for the remainder of the year. When defining goals, use the "SMART" formula – specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound. This approach provides clarity, focus and motivation when defining your goals.

Using the SMART system, make sure your goals are:

• Specific. Your goal should be clear and focused with a motivating factor. When creating a goal, determine exactly what you want to accomplish and why your goal is important. For example, instead of "I'm going to walk regularly," try, "I am going to walk for 10 minutes at least three days a week so I can run around with my kids."
• Measurable. Having measurable goals allows you to track your progress. The more specific your goal, the more measurable it will be. Before you get started, decide how you’ll track – app, pen and paper, or another method. Choose the one that works best for you!
• Achievable. To be successful, your goal should be realistic. If you’re new to the habit of healthy motion, avoid trying to run a marathon on your first day. Instead, start with baby steps you can build on slowly. Celebrate the little victories! They’ll soon add up to big ones.
• Relevant. Align your goal with your values. If you value being caring toward yourself and others, you could set a goal to walk around your neighborhood for up to 30 minutes five days per week. I will also allow myself two days to rest each week.
• Time-bound. Give yourself a deadline to work toward. Like the goal itself, it’s important that your timeframe is also realistic. Set small target dates for the baby steps that will lead up to the end goal.

Forming SMART goals effectively can provide the clarity needed to start or continue your journey!

And be sure to document your process in your journal, take photos and record videos. Having a visual reminder can help keep you accountable. Reach out to connect with me for additional ways to practice SMART techniques.

Prioritizing Health: A Stark Reminder

Susan, a single mom of three, faced a tragic loss when her close friend passed away suddenly from a heart attack at the age of 46 in February 2022. The news shook Susan and her circle of friends to their cores. "None of us in our close group of friends knew she was sick ... It was a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing our own health while balancing the demands of family life," Susan shared.

Returning from the funeral, Susan's oldest daughter voiced her fears, expressing concern that something similar might happen to her mom. Hearing her daughter’s concern, Susan resolved to make a change for herself and her children. Her children were her “why”, and she knew she needed to get healthy for them.

Despite living in different states, Susan and her friends stayed connected, and supported each other through their grief. They made a pact to prioritize their health and scheduled check-ups with their doctors. Susan's doctor's visit revealed a shocking number on the scale — 253 pounds. “I was tired of feeling exhausted every day. In March 2022, I took the first step toward change and said, ‘Yes’ to OPTAVIA.”

Throughout the following year, Susan challenged herself to create healthier habits – eventually, shedding 113 pounds*. In addition to transforming her physical appearance, her confidence soared as she went from a size 2X to a size 6/small**. Her journey, documented on social media, inspired others to embark on their own paths to wellbeing.

Susan's mental health also saw a remarkable improvement. Positive affirmations became part of her daily routine, influencing her family and friends to make healthier choices too. When one of her friends expressed interest in her weight loss, Susan stepped into the role of independent OPTAVIA Coach.

Throughout her journey, Susan's OPTAVIA Coaches and Community, family and friends provided lots of support and encouragement. Their positivity and enthusiasm inspired Susan to live her life to the fullest from then on.