When we think of being a role model, instantly we think of children looking up to us.  But you don’t need to have children to be a good role model.  Here are some ideas to being more inspirational.  Who knows, you might just be inspired yourself!

We all lead busy lifestyles and sometimes taking care of ourselves can seem like the last thing on our minds.  Let alone being a good role model.  Recently, Bruce competed in a body building competition and Lesley has been training for a half marathon.  Both of them instantly have become an inspiration to our clients.

Now, you may not have really thought of this, but what YOU do, can have more of an impact on those people around you than you might think.  Even the shyest or most introverted people can inspire others to achieve.  Have you ever noticed someone close to you or at your workplace who has lost weight?  What usually happens?  Everyone crowds around and asks how they did it.  Something so simple; can have a positive effect on others around you.

So why would you want to be a good role model or inspire others?

If you have children, grandchildren, nieces or nephews, this is easy.  You would want to set a good example so that they grow up with healthy habits.  But if you have no maternal or paternal instincts why would you care?  Simple….  It’s an easy way to become accountable.  When we become accountable we are more likely to succeed in whatever we do.

Where to start?

When it comes to health and fitness, the first thing is to set yourself a goal.  Oh, I know…you’ve heard this about a thousand times before, but when was the last time that you got in the car and drove without any idea where you would end up?  It’s the same principle.  Once you’ve set that goal, you need to make sure that it is something that you really want to achieve.  This is because when you come across obstacles, they will seem like nothing compared to achieving what you set out to do.  This is where the inspirational part comes into it.  Sticking to your game plan will always be difficult.  Overcoming those obstacles is what makes your story inspirational to others.

What next?

Tell people!  Now you might think that this is really bragging.  IT ISN’T!  This is how you become accountable to others, build yourself a support network, start becoming a good role model and an inspiration to those around you.  It doesn’t have to be in a way that is conceited.  Simply tell others about what is going on for you.  Besides, you are twice as likely to succeed if you have a positive support network around you.

What else can you do?

Make just a little time to put towards ‘actual’ activities. Don’t buy a WII sport and play ‘virtual’ soccer.   Get out there and have a kick with a real ball in a real park or oval.  Better yet, join a local team.  We have access to some wonderful parks so lets make the most of them.  Who knows? You might discover a talent you never thought you had.

Rediscover cooking again.  Cooking doesn’t have to be a labour of love or time consuming.  Some of the best chefs in the world make the most beautiful meals in record time.  The key is to use fresh ingredients.  Great home cooked meals like in our Seriously Healthy recipe book mean you can make outstanding meals in no time. Quick, simple, healthy and delicious recipes will mean that everyone will be asking how you do it?  If you have kids, it is also a great learning opportunity for them so that they know that not everything comes from a can or a drive thru.

With many fund raising events throughout the year i.e.: Run for the Kids, they pretty much all cater for all ages and fitness levels.  So sign up and tackle a short course one. It could be a short 4 km walk through to a 10 km run.  Not only does this show that you have made a commitment to a worthy cause but the feeling of completing a walk/run with 1000s of other people is fantastic as well as inspiring.

So get out there, set a goal, enjoy life and inspire your friends and family to do the same.  You’ll be amazed by the positive energy it generates!