By: Paige Valentik, MPS, RD, LDN

I’m feeling extra empowered this morning after attending last night’s Jana Marie Foundation event where John spoke about his experience with losing his dads. Proud wife moment!! Also feeling extra motivated as John and I prepare for our first sprint triathlon happening this Sunday. My super competitive side is coming out and I’m getting pumped up. So with that, I bring you a motivational message.

If not for your loved ones, do it for you. What is this “it” I’m talking about? I’m talking about taking care of yourself. I’m talking about prioritizing you. I’m talking about prioritizing your physical health, your physical body, your ability to do the things you enjoy. I’m also talking about your mental health, your happiness, your stress and anxiety management, your desire to keep going.

As a “young” person it’s hard to think about aging. Sometimes I joke that it’s harder to get off the floor than it used to be (although that is true). My hair greying is also a daily reminder that one day activities of daily living will be difficult. But how lucky am I to be healthy enough to start doing triathlons at the age of 33? It’s a little bit of luck and good genetics, but anyone that knows me knows I’m working hard every day to prioritize good exercise and nutrition habits. I’m doing that so I can do the things I want to do, but you better believe I’m also doing it for my kids.

Be a role model for your kids. I don’t sneak away to get a workout in, I either include them or we say “mommy (or daddy) are going to exercise!” I gotta say, Parker does the cutest little squat you’ve ever seen…and with great form! Our kids eat junk food, we know a balance and having fun with food is important, but we prioritize eating healthy and talking about how food helps us grow and be strong. We want them to build a healthy relationship with food and understand that healthy habits should just be apart of their life.

My parents are aging. I hate it, I’m in denial because I want them to be around forever. I’ve had too many friends lose their parents too soon and John knows all too well what that’s like x2. My dad is preparing to retire in December 2025 after what will be 47 years of owning his own business. My mom is preparing to help take care of my little niece on her way in December. They look forward to traveling, spending time together and most importantly, spending time with their kids and grandkids. I want them to take care of themselves so they can be around to see their grandkids graduate from high school and college just like mine did for me. I want them to be able to run around and practice sports with them. And I want that for myself one day too. I want to take care of myself now knowing I’ll have the physical and mental freedom to be able to enjoy those moments in the far off future.

It’s hard to write passionately, I am much better at speaking. But, I hope whoever is reading this is feeling motivated and excited to do something different. Maybe it’s the kick in the butt you needed or the reminder to keep doing what you’re doing. Either way, please remember to take care of yourself NOW, not when it’s convenient. There’s never an easy or right time, but poor health is always inconvenient. Don’t wait.