By: Paige Valentik MPS, RD, LDN

When it comes to health and wellness, we all want the best for the people we care about. We’d tell them to choose healthier foods, stay active, and prioritize their mental health. But have you ever stopped to ask yourself if you’re making those same choices for yourself? If you think about the choices you make daily, would you be happy if your loved ones, especially your kids, were doing the same things? After all, you’d want them to live a long, healthy life. So why not take steps to make sure you’re doing the same for yourself? Here are some things to consider…

> Let’s start with a simple one: grocery shopping regularly versus eating out. When you shop for your own groceries, you have the power to choose fresh ingredients and healthier options. It’s true that cooking can take a little more time, but think about the benefits. You get to control exactly what goes into your meals, whether you’re making a healthy stir-fry, salad, or even a wholesome homemade burger. Would you want your kids to rely on unhealthy, highly processed foods? Then maybe it’s time to make that choice for yourself, too.

> Now think about the snacks you choose. Do you gravitate toward chips, candy, or cookies when you’re craving something quick? It’s easy to reach for that sugary snack when you’re in a rush or stressed out. But what if you started reaching for fruits, veggies, or nuts instead? They’re not just good for you; they help keep your body fueled and energized without the sugar crashes that leave you feeling sluggish. You probably wouldn’t want your kids to grow up thinking junk food is the go-to snack, so why not set the example for them?

> We all know how important water is for our health, but how many times have you swapped that glass of water for a soda, sugary coffee drink, or an energy drink? Sure, they might taste good in the moment, but those extra calories and sugars can sneak up on you, leading to weight gain, sluggishness, and other health problems. It doesn’t feel good to tell your kids “no” when they ask for juice, but you’re sipping on sugary drinks all day.

> Exercise doesn’t have to mean hitting the gym every day or running miles on end. When you stay active, you’re improving both your physical and mental health. If you think about your loved ones, wouldn’t you want them to stay active for their health, too? Physical activity helps reduce stress, boosts mood, and improves overall well-being. It’s not just about staying in shape; it’s about taking care of your body and mind. If you can show them that it’s fun and important to move, you’re doing more than just promoting a healthy lifestyle. You’re giving them a lifelong tool for maintaining their health.

If you don’t have a clear “why” for making healthier choices, consider using your loved ones as your motivation. Ask yourself, “Would I want my kids to make the same choices I am making today?” If you want them to live long, healthy, and happy lives, it’s time to take action and show them the way.

When you choose health, you’re not just improving your own life. You’re setting an example for those who care about you. It’s never too late to make positive changes for yourself. Start small, but be consistent. And every time you make a healthy choice, think about how that choice might impact the people you love—and how you can inspire them to live healthier, happier lives too.