If I was looking to transform my mind and body again, here’s where I would start

About 4 years ago, I lost 70lbs over the course of 12 months. Now, the weight is not entirely the point, but it is a notable measure that most people realize as some kind of drastic change. My entire appearance changed, but so did my mentality. Which is part of the reason why I’ve maintained this lifestyle ever since. 

Now, You can’t compare someone’s day 567 to your day 1. 

Especially not your own. So, let’s rewind to my day 1 reality.

I was bloated, uncomfortable, and inconsistent with workouts. I copied other people’s diets without knowing what worked for me. I had no concept of balance and swung between extremes, either all in or all out. I was drinking often, constantly tired, and not proud of my body. My self-talk was negative, and although I had a basic knowledge of food, I had no real understanding of portions.

Sound familiar?

I was a pro at deciding to “change my life” on a Sunday evening. By Monday, I’d be eating spinach and chicken, lifting heavy weights, and downing 400mg of caffeine, feeling motivated. By Friday, I’d completely fallen off track. By Sunday, I’d feel so defeated because… well, my life hadn’t magically transformed in four days. I was stuck in a cycle that promised quick results but delivered nothing but frustration.

I promise you, there’s a better way.

There’s a way to feel good, strong, confident, and proud of yourself without extreme restriction or burnout. If I could start over, here’s exactly what I’d do instead.

1. Focus on One Meal at a Time

Instead of overhauling everything overnight, I’d start small. I’d pick one meal—breakfast, for example—and find a few options that are simple, made with whole foods, and actually satisfying. Then, I’d pay attention to how they made me feel. Did I feel energized? Satisfied? Still hungry? Once I had two or three solid breakfasts, I’d move on to lunch, then dinner. Building one step at a time is so much more sustainable than trying to change everything at once.

2. Give It Time

Time is going to pass anyway. Quick fixes might give you quick results, but they also fade just as fast—and they chip away at your hope in the process. Instead, I’d focus on perfecting one small element at a time, knowing that lasting change comes from consistency, not speed.

3. Start Slow With Fitness

No need to sign up for an expensive gym or buy trendy workout clothes. I’d just start with walking. Three 30-minute walks a week. Once that felt natural, I’d increase to four, then extend the time.

More importantly, I’d find movement that I actually enjoyed. I don’t love spin classes, so I don’t force them. I love the gym, so that’s where I spend my time. If you love hiking, pilates, or dance, lean into that. When you enjoy what you’re doing, you’ll actually stick with it.

4. Change the Way You Talk to Yourself

Your self-talk matters more than you think. I’d work on speaking to myself with kindness, giving myself grace, and learning to love who I was at every stage of the process. The way you speak to yourself can make or break your progress. Celebrate small wins because they are the big wins.

Wellness is not a punishment—it’s a privilege. Honor that.

5. Get Comfortable With Being Uncomfortable

Change is uncomfortable. That first walk when you don’t feel like moving your body? Uncomfortable. Making a new habit stick? Uncomfortable. But every time you choose to do it anyway, you grow. And eventually, what once felt hard will start to feel second nature.

Day 1 is hard. Day 678 is hard. The difference? You get stronger.

Start building your foundation now. Focus on small, sustainable changes. And most importantly, be proud of yourself for trying—every single day.

If you’re looking for an easy way to simplify healthy eating, my 14-day meal plan is designed to take the guesswork out of it. It includes a full recipe guide, simple whole-food meals, and a flexible approach to help you feel your best—without restriction. Send me a message saying “MEAL PLAN” and I’ll send you all the details.