This is a direct line from my “Nurture Principles – find wellness within” keynote. I can honestly say that there are things I know I should do but don’t. So big deal we’re human, right? Well… not so fast. I think the disconnect here is that we don’t think about the long-term impact of our day-to-day choices. We’re just getting through the day. Hence, we easily say we don’t have time, motivation, or money to exercise. We not only need to know our DAILY CHOICES MATTER, but we also need to BELIEVE that our ACTIONS can make a difference!

I was reading this MSNBC article about a recent survey that demonstrated our lifestyle choices don’t match our fears.

The Bupa Health Pulse survey found that four in five, or 80 percent, say they are worried about developing chronic diseases.

According to the Geneva-based World Health Organisation, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases accounted for almost a third of all deaths around the world in 2005.

Nearly half of the 12,000 people questioned across 12 countries admitted they only exercise for an hour a week or less.

When asked to name their biggest barrier to making healthier lifestyle choices, 24 percent of those surveyed cited lack of time, almost a fifth cited motivation and 14 percent blamed the expense.

“We know from research that exercise is one of the most effective lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk of developing long-term conditions,” said Julien Forder, a senior research fellow at the LSE, who worked on the report. “Nearly a third of cardiovascular disease and more than a quarter of diabetes could be avoided if everyone started to exercise.”

When asked about the fears of developing chronic diseases, a third of respondents were most worried about cancer compared to only 11 percent being most worried about heart disease, and only 8 percent about diabetes.

(Reporting by Kate Kelland, editing by Paul Casciato)

It seems to me that they are “worried” but not that worried. They don’t want to face it right now. Too much “else” going on. Well, if not now, then when? Hopefully it won’t be too late. Because you can’t wish away years of unhealthy behavior. What are YOU doing to take care of yourself? What would you say to people working on taking that first BIG step?

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