by Jae S. Brown
Two years ago, I embarked on a transformative journey to improve my health. My goal? Walk an average of 10,000 steps a day to establish a consistent, healthy habit. What I achieved surpassed my expectations—I consistently averaged 11,500 steps daily. This journey wasn’t just about logging steps; it was about reclaiming my health one day at a time.
The Power of Consistency
Before starting this journey, I admired runners and joggers, envying their dedication and wishing I could join their ranks. In 2023, I committed to change. Over two years, I shed 40 pounds by walking regularly and embracing a more active lifestyle. Yet, at the 100-week mark, I realized I needed to go further. Diabetes, family responsibilities, and the demands of building a business made it clear: it was time to take my health to the next level.
Walking taught me a crucial lesson—the power of consistency. My goal wasn’t about daily perfection but hitting a weekly target of 70,000 steps. This approach gave me the flexibility to navigate life’s challenges while staying on track. Now, I’m applying the same mindset to my new health goal: losing one pound a week for the next year.
Tracking and Celebrating Progress
Tracking was my secret weapon during my walking journey. Using the Health app on my Apple Watch and iPhone, I monitored my steps, celebrating every milestone—1 week, 1 month, 100 weeks, and more. For my weight-loss journey, I’ll extend this habit by logging my progress digitally and on a printed weekly tracker in my office. This visual reminder will keep my goal top of mind and fuel my motivation.
Celebrating milestones will also remain key. Just as I celebrated every step achievement, I’ll commemorate every pound lost. These celebrations keep me inspired and make the process feel rewarding.
A Journey of Legacy
This journey isn’t just about weight loss; it’s about creating a legacy of health and longevity. I think often about my grandparents and the years I missed with them. If they had walked just 30 minutes a day, they could have extended their lives significantly, giving me more time to cherish their presence and allowing them to see their great-grandchildren grow.
This dual journey of walking and weight loss is my way of honoring them while ensuring I can live longer, see my family thrive, and inspire others seeking healthier lifestyles. It’s not about perfection but progress. One pound a week, one step at a time—I’m building a healthier future for myself and those I love.