In short, I had reached a critical point in December 2021 which caused me to question everything. I felt like an imposter that had spent years hiding “behind the paper” in my business.

It came down to self-inflicted mandatory radical change; one way or another something had to change. I had drawn the proverbial line in the sand and was either going to sell my business and get a 9-to-5 or make some other significant, yet-to-be-determined changes.

I opted for starting a free mental toughness program called 75 Hard. Essentially, there are five rules that must be followed on a consistent and daily basis for 75 days straight. These include two, 45-minute workouts (one of which must be outside – regardless of the weather), read 10 pages of a non-fiction book, drink one gallon of water, pick an eating plan and stick to it (no cheat meals, no alcohol) and a daily progress picture.

If participants fail just one tiny aspect like drinking 125 ounces of water instead of 128 ounces, or accidentally ingesting food that’s not on your food plan, you must start over at day one. Of course, there are no “75Hard police” to force anyone to start over. This is a significant part of completing the program successfully; learning to hold oneself accountable through personal integrity.

As it turns out, while I’m sure it’s not for everyone, 75 Hard was the perfect mental toughness program for me. Aside from the obvious benefits of weight loss and looser fitting clothing, I’ve gained discipline, clarity, self-trust, self-confidence, increased energy and an overall lighter feeling physically and emotionally.

I would highly recommend everyone seek and find a program that fits your lifestyle. There are countless options available as a quick internet search will easily prove. Having a coach is also very helpful. Check out the Community Resource Guide in the back of the magazine for some wonderful coaches who have dedicated their lives to helping others improve their quality of life and achieve more of what they want out of life.

In this month’s feature article by Sheryl DeVore, “Why We Need Wild Places: How to Invite Nature Back into Our Lives and Landscapes,” the author offers tips on creating a wild space at home. I’m excited to channel some of the personal renewable energy I’ve gained this winter into creating a bit of wilderness in my backyard. I’ll be planting wildflowers for the mighty pollinators, the bees and butterflies. If you have a yard, why not join me and post pictures of your planned wilderness on our Facebook page?

With warm wishes for catching a breath of fresh air this spring.