Greetings Fellow Dream Achiever!

Part of where we get our motivation to improve our situations is by learning what others like us did to achieve their dreams. Well, this week I’m sharing an interview I did with a lady who’s overcome a major battle many of us have struggled with at one time or another. Getting healthier!

Tracey is someone I’ve known for quite some time and she’s amazing! She finally had enough and transformed herself after realizing that she was doing the same things over and over and still getting the same results. Imagine that! So, I’m very thankful to Tracey for taking the time and sharing herself with us. To share what she’s gone and going through to achieve her dreams. I truly hope you find Tracey’s incredible words of triumph as inspiring as I do!

Question: Describe your life to us before you decided to get healthy

Answer: Before I decided to get healthy I basically ate whenever and whatever I wanted. I had no energy and crazy mood swings. I also was lacking in self esteem and confidence.

Question: What was the final motivational factor that made you decided to take action and stick with it?

Answer: The final motivation factor in getting healthy was my desire to be a Anaheim Power Player. They're the girls who take care of the ice during commercials for the Anaheim Ducks.

Question: What do you do when you have a bad day/week?

Answer: When I have a bad day or week I just try to breathe and not stress too much. I used to eat my emotions but that just makes things worse. I'm learning to take a walk, read, anything to distract me instead of just reaching for food when things aren't going great. If I absolutely need to have food I try to make a healthier choice like fruit instead of junk.

Question: What does your eating program consist of?

Answer: My eating program consists of mostly clean foods such as fruits, veggies, lean meats, and whole grains. I try to avoid processed foods and I don't drink pop. Of course I'm only human so I do have junk now and then I just do it in moderation. If you deprive yourself you are more likely to binge.

Question: What does your workout program consist of?

Answer: I workout about 6 days a week. I do a lot of cardio but am In the process of adding in weight training. The current plan is cardio 5-6 days a week, weights 3-4 days a week, and I try to do yoga 1-2 times a week. I love to go for walks and I will also be ice skating a few times a month in preparation for my second time auditioning for the Power Player squad.

Question: What advice and tools for success would you give to other people who need to make changes like you did?

Answer: My best advice for people looking to make changes as I have would be to be patient! Results take time! I would also suggest a food journal. Keep track of what you eat, the time you ate, why you ate, and calories of course. I have been keeping a journal for over a year and it has helped tremendously! I have also done lots of research on different workout plans, diet plans, etc. You may have to combine different plans to find something that works for you. There is not a "one size fits all" program! If you have a bad day or bad meal start over at the next one.

Question: What has changed in your life since getting healthy?

Answer: Since I have gotten healthy I have more confidence and self esteem. My moods are stable and I have more energy! In general I'm just happier!!

Question: What are your fitness goals moving forward?

Answer: I have never been a runner but I am currently on the 8th week of the 9 week couch to 5K running program. My fitness goals moving forward are to run a 5K race, a half marathon, and eventually a full marathon.

Question: What does your support system consist of (friends, workout partner, or perhaps something like Weight Watchers etc.)

Answer: My friends and family support me, but I am my biggest supporter. I'm constantly tweaking my meal plans and exercise plans to keep things interesting and keep the results showing.

Question: Will you ever return to the previous edition of Tracey? Either way, share with us why?

Answer: I will NEVER return to the old Tracey. I love being healthier and more confident. My self esteem is improving more and more everyday. Oh and shopping is WAY more fun!

So there ya have it! Tracey’s pain of staying the same was finally more than the pleasure she got from eating junk food and being lazy. She did it and so can YOU! Moreover, because she knows what it’s like to feel alone and frustrated, she’s offering her direct support to you to help you achieve your dreams. You may reach her at Tracey.walz@yahoo.com even if just to say “Way to go GURL!!!.”

Now, if you know someone with a tremendous success story like Tracey’s, one that can benefit and inspire our group, please let me know. I’d like to continue interviewing those awesome people who’ve paved the way and can share with us how they did it!

Until next time – Always, ALWAYS, believe in yourself and that you deserve NOTHING but the best in life!

All my best,

Christopher