Amy's Fit-Nut Life

My How-To to Self-Care: 5 Easy Steps You Can Take Today

2013-05-30T15:31:00.001-07:00

BY Amy Leever

One of the biggest excuses I had about not taking care of myself was, “I don’t have time.” On so many occasions I chose my Facebook update or watching some senseless tv show or the my kids were young and needed my attention

I created as much distraction as possible because I didn't want to deal with my issues … there was too much of it! Honestly, I didn't know where to start. I tried so many different things, but my ADD & OCD & self proclaimed 'Perfectionism' kept reminding me I wasn't able to do anything right. Eventually, I would end up on the couch surrendering my sorrows in a bowl of ice cream or a package of Oreos. Or I'd find myself complaining in a Facebook status about how my life sucked. It seemed the more I tried to make myself do something the more excuses I came up with.

My life had spiraled out of control so far that I wanted to just end it. Thoughts of suicide raced through my mind. My epiphany came in a grocery store parking lot, while talking to a friend I hadn't seen in years. Feeling so disgusting, lethargic, sick and embarrassed -- I finally understood what I needed to do:

1. Take some 'me' time every morning.

I am NOT a morning person. If you know me well, you know not to speak to me until I've had some quiet time & my cup of coffee. BUT, I find it's best to take personal time in the morning. I get up almost an hour before everyone else so I can take time to reflect, breathe, make peace with my day ahead. I read a few versus out of my bible. I say a prayer. I go over my daily 'to do' list & schedule. I scroll through Facebook or read a few emails. Just time to wake up and connect with myself.

2. Fix your attitude.

Your attitude is a very important aspect of your life. The excuses you make create a negative attitude. Walking around with a chip on your shoulder isn't the right way to create joy in your life. Blaming other people or the economy for your circumstances doesn't create peace and happiness either. Get over your ego! What we feel, we manifest. Therefore, allowing your emotions control your attitude is a definite no-no! Take a deep breath and let it go. Take responsibility for your own choices that lead you to the circumstances you are in. If you want something to change, YOU MUST BE the change. Get rid of the sob story and go after what you want. You are the only thing stopping you.

3. Food matters.

Taking care of yourself means watching the food you eat. We live in a microwave, drive-thru world that demands we eat on the go. Fast foods, junk food and sugary drinks, eventually add pounds and increase burnout. It really is the truth - when you eat crap, you will feel like crap! Remember, you are what you eat. Do your well-being a favor and select the food you eat with a clear sense of what exactly you're putting in your body. It is not expensive to eat a clean, organic, whole food diet. It's a misconception because people just don't want to take the time to know & understand the difference.

4. Get rid of the bad apples.

Sometimes the company we keep become our worst enemies (literally). If a person or a relationship is not positive and nourishing to the soul, get rid of them. Distance yourself from the negative, sulking, whiners in your life. Instead, surround yourself with positive, supportive and energetic people who will lift you up and push you to move forward. There's a little cliche that happens to be true: You are a combination of the 5 people closest to you. Who are you allowing in your circle?

5. Disconnect.

Email. Cell phones. Social Media. Video Games. Even television are constantly THERE! Give your mind-body-soul a break and develop an 'Unplug Time' of day. For me, having the family & myself unplug by 7pm every night is our rule of thumb. There is absolutely NOTHING so important that you can't unplug for a few hours every night.

Developing the keys to wellness that work within your lifestyle is easy and cost free. All you need is a little time and determination to be your best self. With persistence I've developed healthy habits that suit my life, you can too.

3 Tools You Need to Beat the Economy

2013-04-15T11:47:00.000-07:00

Figuring since it's Tax Day, I could offer a little insight on how to overcome the Economy. Will it be easy? Heck no! Will it be useful info? Maybe. Will it guarantee success? That's up to you!

There are 3 skill sets that make you valuable in any economy - professional skills, people skills, and leadership development skills. All of these skill sets will increase your value and your income.

Professional skills. Whether you are a doctor, real estate agent, mechanic, waitress, teacher, home business owner, or customer service rep, you must know the basics of your profession. You must be willing to learn new, specialized skills. The difference in a professional and an amateur is your skill.

People skills. People are everywhere! You work with them, live with them, buy things from them, and sell things to them. And where does money come from? People! If you learn more about people than you do anything else, you will be unusually successful. If you learn great people skills, you will attain income security. Those who do not have people skills are usually the first to be laid off.

Personal development & leadership skills. People with high leadership skills have extremely high influence and high value in the marketplace. They are consistently working on improving themselves, and they raise up other leaders. They have a "no excuse" mindset. They focus on producing results. They do not let circumstances define their success, but they take personal responsibility to create their own success.

Unique Position

2013-03-09T10:00:00.000-08:00

I'm in a very unique position right now with life. I'm in a very good place, yet it's also a place that feels kinda lonely too. Not many people are in the same place I am, so it's difficult to find others to talk to with similar experiences and common ground.

I am 39 years old, I have 3 children; one who will be 21 soon, who is off making a life of his own & I don't get to see often since he moved 4 hours away. Another is 18 and will graduate high school in June, already making plans to be off on his own by the end of this summer. And the youngest will be 14 soon, and will enter high school next fall.

Yes, I had my children at a young age and am now getting a taste of 'empty nest syndrome' at a young age. I love it and hate it at the same time. I love that my kids are grown up, and I'm almost done being 'mom' all the time. I love that I'm in a place where having young kids around is a thing of the past. But I hate that I'm a minority in this situation. It's difficult not to have others to talk to who are in this same stage of life. If I do find others like me with adult children & teens, they are much older than I. Those who are more around my age, still have young kids or are just starting their family. They aren't in the position of having the freedom to do 'adult' things, because they have to find babysitters or take into account that they do have children at home who need them.

So that is why I say I'm in a very unique place. I am a unique person with a ton of 'life' experience and I'm still a young woman. Forty may seem old to some, but I'm just getting started in life. I'm at a place where I can explore the world around me. I sacrificed that in my late teens & 20's because I had my children young (and other reasons). Now I've raised them, and am free to be ME!

I'm unique in the life experiences I've lived through. From teen pregnancy to a failed marriage by the age of 19 to living with a drug addict & alcoholic to attempted suicide, depression and other very personal trauma. I've seen a lot, done a lot and made a lot of bad choices. I am who I am now because of where I've been in the past.

I'm also unique in my hobbies & interests. I'm very eclectic! I've found it difficult to find others with the same interests and who are around my age. I don't get out of the house much, because I really don't have anywhere to go. I do not drive, somewhat by choice. I do not drink alcohol or smoke anymore. I do not do drugs or smoke pot, I really try not to judge anyone, but I don't want to hang around or be associated with people who do. That makes finding friends or like minded people, very difficult.

I do not like rain, cold or snow. Anything outdoors has to wait for nice weather! But I love living in Oregon. It's natural beauty speaks to my soul. I crave heat, sunshine & the ocean, but do not want to live in a beach house. Vacation home yes, to live no! I am a country girl. Pure and simple! I want to start a small farm & be self-sufficient and sustainable.

- Outdoors: hiking, camping, nature photography. Anywhere there is a body of water, the forest, the mountains. Bird watching, wild life, gardening & sunshine!

- Earth Science, geology, geography, history, abstract art, astronomy, astrology.

- NASCAR, College football, motocross, bull riding, the NBA, Indy car racing, 4x4 mudding, riding quads.

- Country life, small town-country living. Simplicity rules!

- Healthy living: Eating clean, nutritious food, fitness & personal/spiritual development.

- Home decor. Graphic design.

- Vintage, Victorian, Country, Medieval are some of my favorite eras and design styles.

- Business: entrepreneur, building a 'fit-nut life' business, helping & teaching others to live a healthy, simple life & pay it forward.

- Travel. I want to see the world. I want to explore and adventure!

- No political party, but I'm a very independent conservative with a few 'liberal' views. Hard to find people who think like I do: I believe in the Constitution, the Amendments & Bill of Rights the way America's forefathers wrote them! I believe in the 10 commandments of the bible, and I believe in the Golden Rule.

- Not religious, but I have Christian beliefs/values & my faith is my guide. However, I don't relish being 'preached' at.

That is just a small portion of who I am and what I'm 'into'. I'm very diverse and as I've said, eclectic. But I wanted to keep this story short.

It's National Nutrition Month!

2013-03-08T09:38:00.000-08:00

It's National Nutrition Month! If you've given up on your New Year's Resolution to be healthier and eat right, it's never too late to give it another try. Don't know what to do? We've got you covered.

Figure out what energy your body needs. Use this tool, Free Dieting, where you can get recommendations designed specifically for you. This tool calculates your personalized daily calorie needs, recommended range for total fats, and provides you with your body mass index (BMI). Write down or print the info, and keep it handy so you remember.
Manage your limits. Now that you know your personal limits for calories, fats and cholesterol, you have a better idea of how to use the numbers on the Nutrition Facts panel. For example, if you only need 1800 calories, then the Baby Back Ribs with 734 calories per serving (a big chunk of what you should have) don't look so tempting because that is 40% of your daily calorie allowance. Remember to watch the serving size, too.

Think of it like your checking account--don't spend more than you earn, and don't eat more than you burn in one day. It's a good rule of thumb for both.
Shake the sodium habit. The AHA recommends that everyone consume less than 1500 mg of sodium per day. Low-sodium foods have 140 mg or less per serving. Keep that in mind to guide your choices.
Fill up on fruits and vegetables. The AHA recommends 4.5 servings per day of each based on a 2000 calorie diet. A serving is 1 cup of leafy greens or 1/2 cup of frozen, raw or cut up vegetables, or 1 medium fruit. If you have a serving at breakfast, lunch and dinner, then at your morning and afternoon snacks, you'll have exceeded the recommendation. You'll be on the road to getting the nutrients you need to fight disease, feel good, and improve your health.
Balance calories by increasing your activity level. You don't have to go to the gym. Do something you enjoy, and you'll be more likely to stick with it. Take a brisk walk with your favorite music or podcast, play tag with your kids, or grab a pal and try walking together.

Stay at Home Mom, Get's Paid to Get Healthy & Help Others

2013-02-14T10:09:00.000-08:00

Ok, I know some people think it's distasteful to boast about money and income or whatnot, but I have to just throw this out there to the universe. I received my 1099 from Beachbody for taxes. I am very impressed with how much a 'Stay at Home Mom' can make in a year just by helping others get started on the right track towards health & fitness. I'm not saying it was enough to make any really large dreams come true (yet) but the extra money brought in from this little side job, this business that I'm building helped pay for school clothes, kids' sports, shoes, extra groceries, date nights, camping trips, weekend getaways and many other things we've gotten to do the past year that wouldn't have happened without my 'Stay at Home Mom' pay. I'm very confident that this year, 2013, I will have DOUBLED my income and many more 'extras' will be affordable for me and my family. So what I'm saying is: If you've been thinking about becoming a coach but you just haven't taken that leap yet, what's holding you back? There will NEVER be a "perfect time"... sometimes you just gotta GO FOR IT! What would you do with a little extra 'change' in your pocket?

Balancing Heart Health and Candy Hearts in February

2013-02-06T09:07:00.001-08:00

Is it cruel fate that brings together American Heart Month and Valentine's Day? In a month devoted to heart health and candy hearts, how can we celebrate both at the same time?

Is it cheating on one to celebrate the other? The American Heart Association is pleased to say that you can enjoy both. You can enjoy an occassional treat, in moderation. Just balance what you eat with how much you move.

Just so it's clear, the American Heart Association highly recommends that you avoid foods high in added sugars, sodium and saturated and trans fats; but Valentine's Day only comes once a year. If that's the day that you choose to to indulge, then enjoy it but remember to balance it with smart choices including fruits and vegetables and physical activity during the rest of the week.

Here are a few other things to keep in mind when celebrating Valentine's Day:

Note the serving size. A couple of pieces of candy? OK. The whole box? Not so much. Split something with your Valentine - like ordering one milkshake and two straws.
Make a date to get active. Pick a fun physical activity such as indoor rock climbing, ice skating or rollerskating. Be silly and run around a playground. Or go somewhere that requires lots of walking, like an amusement park or an outdoor festival. Parking in the farthest spot from the door also counts, as does anything else that gets you moving more and sitting less.
Limit the booze. Strawberries and champagne are so romantic. A one-glass limit is best for women. A single serving of alcohol is one 12-ounce beer, 4 ounces of wine or champagne, 1.5 ounces of 80-proof spirits, or 1 ounce of 100-proof spirits.
Enjoy a candle-lit dinner at home. Preparing food yourself is the best way to make sure the good stuff (fruits and vegetables) is in your meal and the unhealthy stuff (salt and added sugars) is limited. Your loved one will appreciate your extra effort, and it's nice to avoid the Valentine's Day crowds. Get some menu ideas at www.heart.org/healthyrecipes.

The Half-Hearted Hero

2013-02-01T09:03:00.001-08:00

To kick off the month of February and the start of Heart Health Awareness I am doing a special story about a little boy with a big, half heart! Meet Owen Jones...

Owen Jones is a 10 year old boy who was born with a congenital heart defect called Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, essentially half a heart. Owen had the odds of life stacked against him as he had to undergo four open heart surgeries before the age of two. Owen is a fighter and has never given up. For the last few years Owen has become determined to fight back by raising money for the American Heart Association. This money helps educate, raise awareness and provide life saving research. Owen is determined that one day, no one will have to die of a broken heart. Owen has affectionately been called The Half Hearted Hero for his efforts in helping others. Owen has never had an easy path to walk but he has never stopped walking it. He has never had self pity over his limitations or doubts in his ability. What Owen has is faith and determination that one day he can make a difference.

If you would like to learn more about Owen and his story click this link The Half-Hearted Hero and read his inspiring story. There is a way you can help him in his fight to raise money for the American Heart Association as well. You can go to this link Team Owen to donate.

Stay healthy. Be healthy.

Gearing Up for Heart Health

2013-01-22T09:52:00.001-08:00

It's been a while since my last post. I've been terribly busy getting things done this new year. Now it's closing in on February. The month of Love. The month of Heart Health. I'll be doing some research and sharing some health facts and advice during the month of February. I feel it is super important to share the facts, stories and help raise awareness in hopes of saving as many lives as possible.

I have a family history of heart disease. I have friends who've had experience with heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women. You can help prevent heart disease by making healthy choices and managing any medical conditions you may have.

Between clean eating, healthy living, sharing statistics and posting about fund raisers as well as sharing stories of people who live with Heart Disease or have had a loved one die because of Heart Disease -- I think that would be the best way to use this blog. Don't you?

For more information on how you can learn more about Heart Disease and Stroke, how to prevent it and maybe how to help others in need, go to American Heart Association

Year 2012 in Review

2012-12-20T12:06:00.000-08:00

This past year has been life changing and eye opening. We bought a house, after so much struggle with job loss and losing our home in Florida, we were able to move into a home of our own again. I was accepted into and graduated from a prestigious Business Bootcamp! That was mind blowing what I learned and how much I grew during that time. I earned a Success Club trip to Disney World. My husband and I went to Vegas for Coach Summit -- It was an experience that will forever be one of my top 10 favorites in my life. I met new friends, I met celebrities. It was amazing! My marriage has gotten stronger. My husband & I have really built an incredible relationship and it's all built on a foundation of trust, hard work, health and fitness. We are slowly learning how to become debt free. The financial freedom once we pay off our last bit of debt will be indescribable! I've done a lot of personal growth: I'm overcoming anxiety and learning how not to care what others think of me. I'm learning how to be a successful business woman. I'm learning how to be the best leader for my team and help others have a more fulfilling life of their own.

It hasn't been all roses & balloons though. For 2 months we weren't sure how we'd buy groceries or keep the house heated. Work was slow. Money dried up and things got real tight. And it's still very hard financially for us right now. We had some ups & downs with our children and even moving into our new home had some trial & error moments. Our life is far from perfect! But we strive every day for progress and keep moving forward one step at a time. We've learned that nothing God puts in our path is meant to break us, it's meant to strengthen us and keep us pointed towards our goals. Many people give up in the face of adversity and say it's just too hard, it's impossible. That is the wrong attitude! We may get pushed around and tripped up by life, but we damn sure will fight to stand back up and keep pushing forward. That is the right attitude!

What many people don't realize is that we can change our attitudes about life. It takes some work, but it can be done. The more we accept other people and their faults and quirks, the less judgmental we become. The more we decide to share the goodness that's within us, the less selfish we become, and the less likely we are to hang on to material things. The more we learn about other's emotional or physical problems, the more understanding and compassionate we become. YOUR attitude is one of your gifts to the world, all day, every day. What kind of gift do you give? And is it a gift that remains strong, steady & true no matter what happens to you?

Would You Do This?

2012-12-19T09:42:00.001-08:00

Would you be willing to live like no one else?

We have made a big decision. This is something that's important to us and I felt it was something different to share with my Facebook "framily", y'all mean a lot to me and I love each of you, all for different reasons. So I feel it's ok to share this. It's nothing bad and nothing to feel bad about. We are happy with our decision :)

Ok let me explain. We may be crazy and going against the norm, but we've decided to have Christmas different this year. Every year so many people go into debt or spend money they don't have to buy stuff they don't need because they've lost sight of what the holiday is all about. Christmas comes with or without a tree or gifts. It's December 25th, every year, regardless if we have a tree up & gifts under it. Every year we bend over backwards and stress out trying to make sure we get our kids & everyone else the stuff (they don't need) to make them happy and in the process we end up not paying bills or scrimping on groceries or maxing out credit cards to have the money (we don't really have) to do it. NOT this year... We don't have the money! We've had some financial trouble, so things are worse than tight. BUT - We aren't stressing or worried our kids will be scarred for life because they didn't get to open any presents. They will be fine! We have already talked to them about this and they understand (having good kids is a blessing). We don't have a tree either... This year will be focused on what matters: family, having a warm, safe, dry home. Electricity, running water. Food on the table (we will have a nice Christmas dinner), love, community and being together. Those are our gifts.

In an effort to start a new lifestyle that will snowball us out of debt, this is our first step. We will live like no one else, so later we can live like no one else.

Priorities

2012-11-23T09:56:00.000-08:00

As a Health & Fitness Consultant it is my job to promote a healthy lifestyle, fitness, a better way of life. I show people how to incorporate fitness, cleaner eating and personal growth into their daily lives which teaches them how they can live a happier, more fulfilling life. I love teaching this to others. I've learned so much about myself along the way.

Today is Black Friday. There are tons of people all over the U.S. swarming the retail world for all the 'great deals' on tv's, gadgets and well...in my opinion...JUNK! Useless crap that no one NEEDS. What has become of people's priorities? They can spend hundreds of dollars on JUNK, yet they claim they can't afford to eat nutritious food or afford a fitness program that actually costs LESS than the crap they're standing in line for or camping out for days to buy. What is WRONG with this picture?

People have become so distorted in how they view their priorities. THINGS have become more important to them then their health or the health of their family. It's really a shame and very heart breaking.

If only they would see that if they would invest their money wisely...so many more rewarding things would happen for them. I do my best to show them, lead by example. Sometimes I don't feel like I do enough. But I am only one person and I do what I can. It's up to them to make the changes. To decide to make better choices. If they don't, that's not my fault...it's on them when they don't feel well or end up in the doctors office for an illness or disease that could have been prevented.

I pray for these people. I pray for them to change their priorities and choose HEALTH over JUNK!

Who Am I?

2012-11-20T13:37:00.001-08:00

I am such a complex person. I love to learn new things. I'm teachable! I like to give and because of that, I get taken advantage of a lot. I'm often taken for granted and many don't take me seriously. That doesn't stop me!

I have so many interests and things that excite me. From my passion to live a healthy lifestyle to my obsession with living a simple, country life to being frugal to learning about farming and homesteading. My fetish with shoes and purses and having my own 'fashion' sense. My love for the arts. Many more things that make me, ME!

I need to find more like minded people to talk to and share with...Are you out there?

Happy Sunday

2012-11-18T11:03:00.001-08:00

I love Sundays. Why? Well I have many reasons to love Sundays. Here is a list of a few reasons...

Sunday Love:
- My spiritual need.
- My R&R day
- Family day
- NASCAR 🏁
- Sunday dinner

And those are just a few things I love about Sundays. Live. Laugh. Love. Have a blessed day. Go walk in Faith.

A Quick Update with Photos

2012-11-17T11:49:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted about our CLX or ChaLEAN Extreme progress so I thought I'd show off a few photos of our lifting days and talk a little about our progress.

We just finished week one of the Push Phase, which is the 2nd phase of the program. We actually just finished this morning in fact, with the Recharge. That's where we stretch and work on our flexibility. I am so NOT a fan of yoga but as I keep being told...learn to enjoy it! I'm trying...

Here are some photos of our workouts:

The Compound Effect

2012-10-24T11:42:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago a friend commented on a Facebook status I wrote, that said 'Where did Amy Leever go?' You see, in the last 3 years, I've done a lot of changing. The most changes have happened over the course of this last year. I've been doing a lot of Personal Growth and learning about myself.

I've been reading a lot. Books like "First Steps to Wealth" by Dani Johnson, 'Money Makeover' by Dave Ramsey, 'The Slight Edge' by Jeff Olson and most recently I started reading 'The Compound Effect' by Darren Hardy. These books have given me some really interesting insight to my life.

I know, I know -- these 'self-help books are a bunch of hogwash', 'these things are a scam. They only want your money', 'these so called 'experts' don't understand my situation', etc. I have had the same exact attitude once. But that's the point! The only way to change your life is to change your thinking. Step outside what you've been taught to believe in and try something new. Open your mind and grow up!

My daily choices have gotten me where I am today...If I gain some weight it's because of my daily choices, if I am tired and cranky, it's because of my daily choices. If I am out of money and can't pay my bills, it's because of my choices...see where I am going?

What I'm learning is this: I am the only one responsible for how things are in my life. I am responsible for how I act, how I feel and how I think. No one else is to blame. It's the same lesson I've been reading in 'The Compound Effect'...

"No Man's Land"...

This is described as the place where you aren't really unhappy, but you aren't really happy. It's the place where we numb ourselves to our dreams, wants and desires to fit into the time, energy and money we currently make or have.

Complacency is what it's called and something we should all fight against. Fear of being uncomfortable has gotten us a life full unmet dreams, expectations and never reaching our potential. Sometimes it happens so subtly we don't really notice until years later, but all the small, seeming insignificant decisions we made each day over the years have gotten us to the point where we are now.

Our choices, behaviors and habits will determine our future and are an accumulation of our life as we know it now. The good news is that we can always start making better choices, create better habits that create different behaviors and the beauty is, it does not have to be one big change...small steps will make a HUGE difference in the long-run.

The Compound Effect is always in motion, positive or negative - we are either Moving Forward or Sliding back.

THERE IS NO STANDING STILL
(Thank you Darren Hardy! - The Compound Effect)

Isn't that eye-opening? When I read that, my heart skipped a beat and it really had me thinking about all the choices I've made throughout my life. And I started thinking wow...so all this time I thought it was the governments fault I've always been poor. It's the way life is, and I'll never expect anything different because I was born to a life of hardship and poverty. When all along it's been ME. My choices that got me where I am.

When I weighed in at 220 pounds, lost, broken, sick, in pain, depressed, miserable and ready to end it all permanently...it was all because of my BAD choices that put me there.

My bad choices with finances and not having a solid plan in place has left us in debt and always struggling to make ends meet. We are always living hand to mouth because we've made poor choices with our money. We've let money enslave us, rather than making our money work for us.

When I decided to take control and fix all that. My choice to change helped me lose 50 pounds, change my body, change my life and change my mind. It had nothing to do with the economy, the government or someone else's choices -- it was all on me!

The economy still sucks. The government still can't figure out what it's doing. But me...I'm happy, healthy and building a business. I'm prospering. I'm successful. I'm learning new things and making new friends. That's all on me too!

My choices, my behavior and habits have determined my future. The small, insignificant decisions I make each day are accumulating. And one day they will all snowball into the vision and dreams I have set for myself and for my family.

The more I learn, the better I can put the lessons towards getting out of debt and make a better life. I will live like no one else, so then later I can live like no one else. That's all a mixture of the Personal Growth I've been going through. So 'what happened to Amy Leever?' -- I've changed my way of thinking, so I can change the way I live. I've stopped blaming other people and circumstances and have taken responsibility, put it where it belongs; on me.

I am the ruler of my own destiny!

A Plea to Thee

2012-10-08T12:13:00.000-07:00

There are days, almost every day, I feel like people try so hard to jump on any quick fix to lose weight; Atkins diet, the South Beach diet, the Mega Green Tea pill, HCG shot - Really, hormones to lose weight? What?, the Ally pill (I tried it), the shake weights (Yeah, I have one! Silly, right?!), the ANYTHING OTHER THAN WORKING OUT and EATING CLEAN PLAN!

Really...I realize people struggle because believe me I have been there. I am still there!! I struggle every day to stay on track and do what is healthiest for my body & my mind. But before you think of taking another quick fix pill or some silly fad you see on an infomercial for $19.95...please ASK me for help! I LOVE helping people do things they never thought they could do. It brings me joy to watch their lives change with every small step they take towards their health goals.

Beachbody's products are LEGIT. They are the REAL DEAL. Shakeology has CHANGED my life. It has given me more energy, the best nutrition I can put in my body, and I feel fantastic. It's also given me clear skin, regularity, stopped the heartburn and so much more! ChaLEAN Extreme, Power90, Rockin' Body, Insanity, P90X are AMAZING, legit programs! All you have to do is push play every day and do your absolute best and you'll get results!

They are NOT too expensive! Look at how much money is wasted with these 'quick fixes' and yet you keep trying them over and over and over again...and NOT getting healthy or results that last! Beachbody programs and Shakeology work and therefore SAVE you money! So instead of continuously spending money on fake ways to lose weight, why don't you invest it in something that really works and will make you HEALTHY?

My husband and I just finished our Power90 program over the weekend (10/6/12) and I'll share our result photos so you can see for yourself that it's REAL --

I lost 11 inches off my entire body!

He lost his spare tire and now has abs!

Who is ready to start trusting me and start stepping outside their comfort zones to see changes? I do monthly challenge groups because they work! I am always looking for teammates! Message me here or comment on my blog and let's start a conversation. That is it. Let's talk. I have helped many people lose weight and feel good about themselves. WHY NOT YOU? Comment and say ME! NOW is your time!

What Will It Cost You?

2012-09-28T09:20:00.000-07:00

The people I talk to on a daily basis use money as the reason why they won't take action against the very thing holding them back. They 'can't join my challenge groups. They 'can't' buy healthy food. Here are some common phrases I get: "I want to join your fitness challenge, but what does it cost?", "Yes, I want to change, but it depends on how much." and "I need to lose weight, but I just can't afford your program."

What they fail to understand is that money will be spent with or without positive action. People need to pay attention to how much they spend to STAY unhealthy and unfit. People WILL spend money to stay unhealthy. They do it every day! Processed foods in their grocery carts, trips through the drive through, sitting on their behinds watching late night tv with a bag of chips and a soda or a beer.

It's all about priority. I know this because I used to be just like them. Every excuse in the book, I made, so I wouldn't HAVE to face reality of what I was doing to myself.

Me: 220 pounds.

If the couch, tv, pizza, ice-cream and Snickers bar is their priority, that's where their money is going, instead of putting it towards positive change. If that is their priority, what is the cost for NOT taking that money and putting it towards clean eating and exercise?

I guess some people want to pay the ultimate cost, which is their life. It happens every day! Heart disease, Diabetes, Strokes, Cancers -- ALL cost, and cost BIG and ALL preventable.

So my question is: What are your priorities and what will your priorities cost you?

Consider taking a positive action and contact me TODAY! Let's talk. I want to help you. I want to show you how you can help yourself. YOU and ONLY you have the power to take action NOW. If you wait, it just might be too late.

Contact me Fit-NutMama

Is Sugar Toxic?

2012-09-19T12:28:00.000-07:00

Doesn't this picture portray what happens in your head when you think about sugar?! If you're like me, you get excited and happy thinking about dessert or something sweet. This picture just makes sugar looks so delicious. But this is a LIE! Don't believe it for one second that sugar will make you feel better because honestly it is like a drug to your body. There is research that proves your brain responds to sugar like it does a drug! How scary is that? The problem is that the more we eat, the less we feel the reward so we just eat MORE and MORE!

Sweet and toxic: Is sugar really 'poison'?

Here are some practical ways you can reduce sugar from your diet:

Use fruit as a sweetener. Substitute some of the sugar and liquids in a recipe with ripe bananas, apple sauce, pineapple, or other fruit puree. Dried fruits like dates, raisins and figs add wonderful sweetness to foods.
Try Stevia. This herb, originally from South America, is extremely sweet by nature but without any calories or sugar-like effects on the body, and you can use as little as a couple drops to sweeten a mug of tea or a few teaspoons in a dessert. It does have a somewhat bitter aftertaste, depending on the type you use. Unrefined foods are always best, and you can buy Stevia as a simple dried powder.
Use raw honey. Although it is still a sweetener and can be overused like anything, raw honey is full of nutrients, enzymes, and actually has many healing properties. It is lower glycemically than sugar, and many people who react to sugar strongly can eat honey without issue.
Cut back on the sugar in your recipes. Start to cut back just a bit, perhaps 1/5 or 1/6 the amount, then 1/4, 1/3, even 1/2. See at which point you really start to notice a difference. Over time, you will likely find that you enjoy the less-sweetened version!
Be purposeful about cutting meals out of your regular routine that include sugar. If you usually eat a lot of pancakes with syrup, or muffins, or even things like sweetened baked beans, cut those meals out and replace them with something more protein or veggie based instead.
Try other more complex flavors instead of just going with something sweet. Add fresh or frozen fruit, nuts, coconut, etc. to your oatmeal instead of just honey or brown sugar. Play around with various fresh fruits to add more natural sweetness to smoothies. Use nut butters instead of jam on toast or a sprinkle of cinnamon instead of butter on your sweet potato.
Brush your teeth right after eating a meal, so that you won't be tempted to eat something sugary and have to go and brush your teeth again.

My WHY - A Story About Me & Beachbody

2012-09-14T12:11:00.000-07:00

My Story:

I'll start with a little back story and lead up to what I want to say: My story started years ago, let's just say since I was a teenager I was insecure about who I was, I had no self-confidence and many people including some of my peers would tell me I was lazy, stupid, and a 'loser'. So I grew up believing I was too lazy, too stupid, not good enough. I made some pretty poor choices that lead me down a very traumatic path all the way through my 20's.

Noone knew how miserable or hurt I was because I put on a good, brave front. I hid my feelings and shame pretty well. No one cared enough to see past the fake smiles and sarcastic attitude. So I kept it to myself - the pain, the hurt, the humiliation, the belief that I was a failure of epic proportions. FOOD kept me company and always made me feel better.

I had a baby at the age of 18, married a guy I didn't really love before I was even graduated from high school. Separated and headed for divorce barely a year later. Single motherhood and a job as a waitress led me to make other choices I ended up regretting. Then, I met the man I know I was meant to meet and fall in love with, Jorie Leever. But before our happiness was found, we had some major issues to overcome first; his meth addiction, my dead marriage to a man who literally disappeared and couldn't be found for four years. I had another child, with Jorie. Trying to build a life together while also dealing with lies, deceit and addiction. Call me a glutton for punishment I guess, but we were meant to go through all that together, I believe that. I finally got my divorce and we moved on. Jorie, and I got married and had one more child before we decided it was time for a clean slate. We packed up all our stuff and headed west to Oregon. I am a Michigander at heart, He's an Oregonian at heart. I was ready for a brand new start, so I cut ties with my family and we moved 3400 miles away, headed for a brand new life.

Life began to change and get better for us. He got clean and has been sober ever since. However; for me I was left a cynical, sarcastic, insecure, jealous, depressed and anxiety ridden person. Again, I hid it well. No one, not my new family, the friends I was making or even Jorie's friends from high school that he was able to hang out with again, knew what I was feeling inside or how I was using food to comfort myself. All they saw was Jorie's wife getting fat, then lose weight, then get fat again - I put on a great show for everyone. I had a really scary car accident with all 3 of my children in the vehicle with me. I drove a mini-van at the time, and it was my mistake of course, that sent us spinning and on our side. Thank God, all of us were ok physically. No serious injuries, both my van and the other car were totaled. I gave up driving after that. Too afraid I'd cause another accident. I totally blamed myself. So I made excuses not to drive. The fear was just too much!

All things considered, life was going so well for us with our new life that Jorie got a huge promotion at work that moved us all the way to Tampa, Florida. It was amazing. I fell in love with Florida, and at the same time that is where my life began to unravel, ironically. I couldn't hide it any more. The jealousy, the insecurity, the shame, the depression, the anxiety...it all started to come out. Over flow, I couldn't control it or hide it any longer. It was taking over my life. I became a hermit. I wouldn't leave the house alone. I didn't want the neighbors to see me or talk to me. I wouldn't walk 50 ft to my mailbox to get the mail.

My weight ballooned. I could see it in the mirror every time I'd look at myself. I began avoiding mirrors, windows ... anything with a reflection. I hated having my picture taken, but I'd put on a fake smile because living in Florida...we wanted pictures of family outings to the beach and things like that. I was so embarrassed to have to see those photos afterwards. I hated myself. I hated what I was doing to myself. But I had no idea how to stop it or where to go or who to talk to. I didn't trust any one or any thing, so I just kept eating and hiding.

I did try to step out of my comfort zone and I found a couple ladies in the area we lived in. We began walking. And that helped. I wouldn't walk by myself, but I found I could trust and relate well to these ladies, so I'd walk with them. And I could tell I was losing some weight. But things and schedules got in the way, and walking became less & less. But at least I was beginning to figure out what I needed to do.

The economy went bust, so did Jorie's job. We tightened our budget, he took odd jobs. The anxiety and depression almost killed me at that point. Knowing we were going to lose our home, having to scrape every penny, nickle and dime we could to at least eat - I couldn't handle it. But I did what I needed to do and clawed to as much reality as I could. I had to hold it together for the kids. So we did what we could, sold off everything we could or gave away the rest. Kept only what was truly irreplaceable and moved back west to Oregon. During all this, things were starting to change for me. I'd been looking around online for weightloss help. Without telling anyone what I was doing. I found this site called SparkPeople.com. I signed up for a free account. But it never went further - because of the move and all the upheaval surrounding the loss of Jorie's job.

When we got to our new destination, Jorie was unemployed for over a year. I was battling my demons, and having people tell me I needed to find a job. If Jorie couldn't work, then I needed to. I couldn't work! Not when I was too afraid of my own shadow...and I couldn't explain it, they wouldn't understand...how could they when I didn't understand!? So I hid, I made excuses, I continued to eat.
One late summer afternoon, I ran into a friend I hadn't seen in a long time. The girl was so gorgeous and skinny. There I was a fat & miserable - pasting on a fake smile. When all I really wanted to do was die. Everything became crystal clear at that very second.

I NEEDED to change and ONLY I could do it! No one could do it for me. No one could fix it for me. If I wanted to change my life, it was up to me! My starting weight: 220 pounds. That was in August of 2009.

I went home and I logged on to SparkPeople. I figured out what I needed to do. My husband and children didn't believe me when I told them I was changing the way I ate, what I ate, how I ate and fixing my problems with depression & anxiety. They really didn't know what to do when the next thing I did was clean out all the cupboards, the refrigerator & freezer and tossed out all the nasty, crappy, processed foods. I made a list of all the healthy stuff I needed, made a menu plan and I went head first into my new life. I began exercising by walking on a treadmill we'd picked up for $50. I bought some hand weights, and a few other at home fitness equipment, along with some dvd's I could use to workout. And I began my fitness journey.

I didn't let anything stand in my way. Once I began getting stronger, I started taking my walks outside. At first it was only up & down the driveway (almost a 1/4 mile), then I'd walk our road. Eventually I started jogging - tried the C25K program and even Jorie was doing that with me. I began shedding weight. I felt better, I was looking better. I began looking for ways to fix my anxiety and depression. No health insurance and no money; I couldn't seek professional help, so if I was going to fix myself, I was going to need to find a way to do it free.

My first step: I talked about it! I finally opened up to my husband about everything! His old drug abuse, my insecurities, my jealousy - everything! We began working out all that old stuff and I could finally see, that I was my own worst enemy. I let everything that had happened to me over the years control me, when what I should have done was find a way to react to it better. I made the choice to let it fester all those years. I made a choice to let the words of peers and family hurt me and make me feel unworthy. Instead, I should have ignored it and stayed positive. But I didn't know any of that back then. Learning it and applying it is what changed everything for me.

I began reaching out to more people who were on the same path as me. Trying to lose weight, learn how to eat right, exercise and get past mental blocks. I never realized until then that there were so many people just like me! People who needed love, support and understanding. Once I found that foundation, I became a whole new ME.

So I started stepping farther outside my comfort zone, looking for ways to make money. I realized I loved being a stay at home mom, but I also needed/wanted to help my husband make ends meet. So I began researching ways to do both: Stay home and still bring in money.

I developed my own brand. The Fit-Nut. It came to me one day, I was thinking about fitness and nutrition. That's what I wanted to do. That's how I was going to be able to stay home and earn money too. Fitness (Fit) and Nutrition (Nut) The Fit-Nut. Around the same time I was making new social media friends on Facebook. A lady named Carolyn Wilhelm sent me a message talking about Beachbody. I was leery at first. Figured it was some scam, so I held her off. I toyed with the idea, looked up her website. Talked to her quite a bit about it. Asked a lot of questions.

My Beachbody story was just beginning to form though I hadn't joined yet. The weight was still coming off and I was getting leaner, stronger, healthier. People were saying things to me, I'd never heard before. They were proud of me, They were amazed how good I was looking, telling me to stay strong and keep up the hard work. For the first time I felt like I had support and I was enjoying the freedom from the depression. Many things were still holding me back, but I was slowly learning to overcome my fears and learning how to fight back. The better I ate, the more I exercised, the better I felt both physically and mentally. I'd lost 50 pounds. That was in July of 2010.

The aches & pains were gone. And I was healing mentally from all the past hurt & mistakes. I got another message from Carolyn about Beachbody. This time I took it a bit more seriously. I began researching the company. I began getting to know the people who are Beachbody coaches. After 6 months of debating and thinking, I finally dug up the courage and took a leap of faith. August of 2011.

Building a business is hard! I'm not a business woman. I'm not a salesperson. But it's FUN! I love what I do. I'm able to stay home and be a homemaker. My dream! Yet, I'm making money too. I'm getting paid to workout, eat healthy and share that with others. It's the best job in the world!

In July of 2012, Jorie and I made a commitment to do the program Power90 together. We've stuck through it and I'm seeing results, even if they are subtle. But, while I workout every day, I still found that I was slipping back into old habits and gained 10 pounds. I'm back on track again, but You see, I'm far from perfect. I've learned that I'll have setbacks and that's OK. It's how I chose to handle it that makes the difference. For me to 'coach' and help others, I need to be honest about that. It's not about being perfect, it's about making progress. It's about making healthy choices every day and NEVER giving up even when things get a little out of control.

My Doubts:

My doubts about all this come from my past. Actually they come from my parents. Let me explain: My mother has been obese since my early teens. When I was very young she was trim and healthy, but something happened to her and she gave up on herself. I watched her turn to food and thus, that's where my love affair with food began. She is now in her mid 60's, she has diabetes, she has osteo-arthritis - all the cartilage in her hips and knees has been eaten away, she has heart disease & has had that all her life, she's in a wheel chair to get around, pretty much bed-ridden the rest of the time, on oxygen, has had numerous mini-strokes and basically she's very sick, miserable and refuses to do anything about it to change. Nothing I say gets through. She tells her doctors to mind their own business and leave her alone.

My father has COPD and is a retired trucker. He used to be a very thin man but over the years he's gotten lazy in the 'fit' department and eats like crap too. Can hardly breathe, but he refuses to do anything about it. Says he's just too old.

Obesity runs in my family. Very serious, morbid obesity, Heart disease, diabetes, cancers, strokes -- Yet, I can not make my family healthy! Therefore doubt sets in. If I can't get my own parents healthy, how am I suppose to 'coach' others? Isn't it my responsibility, as a coach, to get my parents to drink Shakeology, and get them on a fitness program that will save their lives? The answer is NO! I can't make their choices for them. I can only do my best, and try to keep talking to them in hopes they'll make the healthy choice soon before it's too late.

My job as a coach is to share, recommend, support, inspire and be accountable for MY choices. Set an example for others to follow. I can only control me.

I think that makes me a good coach because knowing I can't make my parents choose to get healthy, makes me determined to help others who DO want to get healthy. I will fight even harder to find the ones who WANT my help.

This is my Why:

Freedom! I now have freedom from my past. Freedom from depression, anxiety & obesity. Freedom to be a Homemaker and build a business that I can be proud of. Freedom to pay it forward and help others. Freedom to be myself. Freedom from hardship. My freedom is limitless!

Becoming a coach has given so much more than a weekly pay check. It's given me a purpose.

My PUSH Promise

2012-08-10T10:07:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week I started Chalene Johnson's 30-day PUSH challenge. This will be the 2nd time I've taken the challenge and this time, I'm actually learning more!

Today is day 5 and Chalene had us make a promise. So this is my PUSH goal Promise that I am making publicly to my family, my friends, my team and myself:

My PUSH goal is to make Diamond rank in my Beachbody business. In order to do that though, I must focus on growing my team and cultivate Emeralds. My focus needs to be on helping them achieve their success so I can have my success which will PUSH me through all my goals for the next 12 months. I promise my team, my family & myself that I WILL do whatever it takes to make that happen. Emeralds are a girls best friend…

My team: The Fit-Nut Crew.

My family: Jorie, Austin, Arron & Aidan

My Sponsor Coach: Carolyn.

Myself: Amy Leever; aka - The Fit-Nut (Wife, Mom, Friend & Coach)

Those are the people I do NOT want to disappoint by not making every effort in achieving this promise.

My promise is now public!

"Success is your destiny. You will achieve this goal."

A Facebook Post by Carl Daikeler

2012-08-06T10:16:00.000-07:00

The US Department of Labor reports that $1.5 trillion dollars of medical care is preventable and reversible without medical intervention. That's a lot of sickness and suffering - $1.5 trillion of it - which we have the tools to solve!

This presents an unquestionable opportunity for Team Beachbody. Now, more than ever, we are in a position to offer “preventative” type services to an overwhelming majority of the population. Statistics indicate that up to 80% of Americans do not exercise regularly and if nothing changes, only 10% are likely to begin an exercise program within the next year.

Even more discouraging: Out of those who do exercise, half of them will stop working out within 3-6 months! And their diet choices deteriorate right along with their fitness habit.

People need accountability coaches. They need to be invited to the Beachbody Challenge!

The U.S. Department of Labor reports that the fitness industry is growing. Employment in the industry is expected to increase by 27% through 2016, a figure that’s greater than the average for all professions, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Thinking of becoming P90X certified? You're smart. There's a lot of demand for it.

And fitness professionals who also offer convenient and effective resources for calorie reduction and real nutrition are making the biggest impact on the lives of their clients as well as seeing the most significant financial opportunity.

We are at the right place at the right time. Granted, not everyone will sign up, because not everyone recognizes how great life can be when they are healthy and fit. That's why you continue to INVITE INVITE INVITE! Be proof the products work and that it's worth it!

There are millions - yeah, millions of people - who DO want a better life, and Team Beachbody is paving the most powerful path to health and fitness in history!

It's About Time!

2012-07-18T15:58:00.000-07:00

Yes...I know, it's been forever since my last blog. I've totally gotta get better at writing more often. Now then...where to begin...

I guess I should begin with an update on my journey. Back in June my husband and I went to Las Vegas for Beachbody Coach Summit. It was O.M.G Amazing! So much excitement and it was just an experience like none I've ever had before. It totally changed a lot of things for me, for my husband and our coaching business. In fact, it actually spurred my husband into action. He's eating better, working out every day and getting out there, meeting other peeps and learning how awesome it is to help others with this opportunity we've been given.

Ten days ago we started the Power90 program together. Even our 13 yr old son is 'working out' with us every morning. It's been great! On top of that program he and I have been going to Zumba and doing other fitness related activities that we'd never done together before. It's been really fun!!

Here's a pic of us after a recent workout...

Not a pretty picture but a great picture! :)

I'm so proud of our accomplishments and am excited to keep going on this new life journey. Oh the memories we will make. What memories are you making with your family?

If you've taken the time to read this, how about finding out more about me and my journey by coming over to Facebook and liking my page The Fit-Nut Coach. See ya there!

Do You Work for a Pyramid Thing?

2012-06-07T11:12:00.000-07:00

Since becoming a Beachbody coach I hear this a lot 'Oh, it's one of those pyramid schemes.' NO! In fact, what I do is NOT a pyramid scheme at all!

I'll be honest and admit that when I was first approached about being a Beachbody Coach, I was skeptical. I'd heard it was a scheme. I was afraid it was just another one of those 'get rich quick' things that never work out and end up ripping you off. I did a ton of thinking and research before I made my decision to sign up.

After doing my research and learning what Beachbody's mission is about and what the company has to offer and what exactly I would do as a coach, I realized one major thing: Corporate America is the Pyramid scheme!

How's that you say?, well let me tell you...Beware, this might miff a few people, but oh well, I'm not aiming to win a popularity contest here, just telling the truth how I see it.

There's this thing in America called a JOB - Basically, the way it works is that you work for a boss, who is under a boss, who is under a boss, who is under the owner or sometimes even worse - under a Board of Directors and shareholders! Anybody work in this place?

Here's the kicker; it's VERY difficult to get ahead in this thing called a job because you are OVER worked, UNDER paid, taken for granted and it's almost IMPOSSIBLE to get time off for any reason. In some cases you even have to get permission to take a bathroom break or eat! Really?

And another thing, it's highly unlikely or at least very rare to get a raise, bonuses, vacation time and in many places the benefits, like medical insurance, really suck if they exist at all. You can't earn money unless you're actually at this job, slaving away for those other people who may not even know your name and only care about their bottom line. Does this sound familiar at all?

Working as an Independent distributor for Beachbody is NOTHING like that! You are essentially your own boss. You own your own business. You set your own hours. You can take vacations & spend time with your family all while still earning an income. If you have a non-profit organization, you can use Beachbody coaching as a fundraiser. Schools, churches, kids programs can qualify. Being a Coach is very rewarding. Not only are you giving back by helping other people, but you're rewarded by the company for your hard work and dedication. You are truly VALUED for what you bring to the company and for what you accomplish.

For me, what I love most about being a coach, is being around for my family. And getting to be home for my kids. I have teenagers and they are here, there and everywhere; sports, youth groups etc. I will have a Senior in high school in the Fall. I won't have to worry about missing any of his special moments because of work deadlines or having a boss who doesn't understand. I can take the time I need and still earn a pay check. That's incredible - Don't you think?

If you want to be your own boss, own your own business, take vacations while still making money, get paid an exceptional income and have more time for family, we should chat! That's if you don't want to work for one of those pyramid things.

Time Management

2012-05-23T09:38:00.001-07:00

I'm horrible at it! Doesn't seem to matter how hard I try to be organized, try new techniques or prepare...TIME is never enough. Dumb excuse for so many things, but it is what it is. I've gone too long between blogs and the excuse is poor time management.

Well anywho...I'm not gonna leave a long speech here (oh thank God, right!) just an update. Still plugging along with work, lifestyle, diet changes etc. Learning a few new things along the way. I've been in business boot camp for about 2 1/2 weeks now and that's been stressful. Talk about being PUSHED out of my comfort zone on many levels! But it's been an eye opener for me and I'm doing my best to get through it, learn from it and take away some success from it.

Pretty hard thing to accomplish when I'm face to face with anxiety every day. That's the biggest thing I'm learning though -- how to break free of my comfort zone. Face my fears and destroy them! It's slow, it's painful at times but I'm doing my best.

Onto other things... Family is good. Kids are gearing up for summer break. I'm ready for school to finish too. Tired of the morning squabbles and grumpiness of teenagers. Just one thing won't have to deal with, at least until about mid July when they'll all be on my last nerve with the 'I'm bored' or the fighting over the video games, then I'll be saying 'When's school start again?' lol that's just the way it goes.

Hubby's doing well. Has a few projects lined up over the summer. Either on our house or helping a friend with their house. He's a genuine 'handy man'. I love that and also annoyed by that fact. Isn't it always the way it is for a wife? Or am I the only one who is proud and annoyed at the same time with her spouse?

A huge trip coming up next month. A trip of a lifetime...well for me anyway. We're going to Las Vegas for a business trip. Beachbody Summit. I'm nervous and excited. My first time ever going to something so important as well as posh, swanky, chic...what's another word for extravagant? Luxurious? Fancy? lol It's going to be at the MGM Grand. Only in my dreams...and honestly, I don't think I've dreamed anything so awesome, did I imagine I'd be able to go to something like the Beachbody Summit.

Well, I guess that about sums it up. I just had to come and do an updated blog. For those who follow me or find this out there on the web by accident -- Thanks for reading. I appreciate it.

-Ciao

Goals for May 2012

2012-05-01T12:07:00.000-07:00

Something I try to do at the beginning of each month, just never thought to put it out there for the world to see. This time, I figure there will be hundreds, if not thousands, of people seeing this eventually so why not use that as my accountability. The list is just 10 of the goals for the month of May. I have other smaller, more focused goals, but those are just for me to see.

I'm wondering how many out there write down their goals and do what they need to do each day to accomplish those goals? - If you are one of those people, comment below, I'd like to hear from you.