Modern Flavor Magazine 1/2015 Modern Flavor Magazine 1/2015 | Page 17

T. and my success is currently being featured in a top-selling
infomercial. As proud as I am of those accomplishments, I’m most
proud of the person I’ve become.
I’ve learned to love myself. I am teaching myself to strive for
excellence rather than perfection. I’ve learned how to enjoy life
without going overboard. I’ve gained a passion for fitness and
pushing my limits. I’ve developed an appreciation and love for healthy
foods. I’ve taught myself that it is okay to be consistently imperfect. I
now live life without limits. There is nothing like the fit life and I
wouldn’t trade it for anything!
It’s also very rewarding to share my story and mentor others to
success. For me, knowing that someone has found healing while
reading my book, attending a live event, or working with me one-onone is a reward in and of itself. I love inspiring positive change in the
lives of others and am thankful for the platform God has given me.
How do you use food differently?
The biggest difference between me then and now is how I don’t use
food. In the past, food was a coping mechanism. It was my way of
numbing myself to the pain and disappointment I was I was feeling.
When things didn’t come together at work, relationships went south,
or I had a bad day, I could always depend on comfort food to lift me
up. It provided a temporary escape from my problems. Now I see and
use food very differently. It’s still a tool but I use it to nourish my body
and keep it strong. I focus on eating lean proteins and a variety of
fruits and vegetables because I know that’s what my body needs to
survive and thrive. Transforming from an emotional eater to a mindful
eater was huge for me. I am so thankful for the growth in that area.
Best tips and advice for those who wish to follow in your
footsteps.
Take it one day at a time. Change takes time. Don’t burn yourself out
by demanding too much too soon. Show yourself love and be patient.
Realize this journey will have ups and downs. Get back up quickly
when you fall. Remember that God is concerned with everything that
concerns you. Inviting Him into this journey will make all the
difference. Lastly, get the right tools, resources and support.
Purchase a heart rate monitor or activity tracker to see how many