Hello Friends,
As we wave goodbye to the tumultuous 2020, I find myself pausing to reflect on a year of profound personal and professional growth. It’s been a journey of transformation, one that I decided to document not only as a personal account but as a beacon of possibility in a year that tested our limits.
Late in 2019, I took stock of my life. My health wasn’t where I wanted it to be—too many holiday treats had left their mark, and my blood work mirrored this indulgence. Determined to see a future filled with grandkids and adventures, I knew drastic changes were in order.
My drive for a healthier lifestyle paralleled my professional ambitions. I had a cache of fascinating work case studies that were itching to be told.
“I was clear on my priorities: health first, storytelling second.”
With a bold commitment to cut out alcohol and sugar, heed nutritional advice, and recommit to regular exercise, I set forth. The early weeks tested my resolve, but my eyes were on the prize.
Then, the world turned upside down with the onset of Covid-19. Instead of succumbing to the chaos, I doubled down on my health commitments. The stakes felt higher, not just for me, but for my family and colleagues counting on me.
Clean eating and mindfulness became my mantras. Five months in, the results spoke for themselves—a dramatically slimmer waist and a wardrobe revival. Energized by my progress, I turned my attention back to writing.
A nudge from a LinkedIn strategy session sparked a new project: bouncing content across platforms to amplify reach. The results were electrifying. My professional narrative was resonating in ways I hadn’t imagined.
“My intent to chronicle my professional path was taking on a life of its own.”
By summer, with health goals firmly on track, I embraced a new creative outlet: the Cajon. This rhythmic exploration redefined my musicality and paralleled my life’s transformation. By autumn, my health indicators from ValleyFit were a testament to the lifestyle overhaul I’d embarked upon.
Now, sporting a 28-inch waist and weighing in at 180lbs, I’m in the best shape of my life, ready to take on skiing, running, swimming—you name it. Over a hundred articles later, designed to offer solace during Covid, I’m preparing to celebrate the anniversary of this pivotal life shift on December 18th, 2020.
So why share this journey? It’s not for accolades but to connect and offer hope in a year where the word ‘impossible’ seemed to loom large.
“In a year that challenged our very being, I stand as proof that the impossible can become possible.”
This is not to overshadow the very real struggles many have faced—job losses, separation from loved ones, and mental anguish. Rather, it’s to show that setting goals can be a beacon through the storm, offering the stability that the world is currently lacking.
My mantra: Mark your progress, capture the moments, write your thoughts, and stay the course. The noise of life will always clamor for attention, but nothing is more critical than your well-being.
As we close this chapter, I hope your reflections are dotted with triumphs over trials, snapshots of your tenacity, and the courage to pursue your aspirations.
Wishing all my readers a heartening holiday season and the end of a year that’s felt like an eternity. To our frontline heroes, those who’ve suffered loss, and anyone who’s felt isolated—I stand with you and honor your strength. Happy Holidays, and here’s to unveiling new chapters in 2021.
Warmest Regards,
Gary