Spark Spotlight: Annette (NETTY129)

By , SparkPeople Blogger
At SparkPeople, we love helping people accomplish big goals—but we believe it's equally important to celebrate the small successes along the way. Each week in the Spark Spotlight, we'll check in with a featured member about his or her proudest moments, biggest challenges and advice for others on living, thinking and feeling healthier. We hope these quick snapshots will help motivate you to keep moving steadily toward your own goals, week by week.
 
This Week's Spotlight: Annette (NETTY129)
Age: 51
Location: Toledo, Ohio 
 
Small Success of the Week
 
Annette recently shared her excitement in the Community Goal Feed that she was finally able to do a Leslie Sansone one-mile walk video to help her reach her goals.
 
What's your overall goal? 
 
My overall goal is to lose about 40 pounds, be more active and live a healthier life. I say "healthier" because, for the most part, I try to eat as clean as I can. Of course, there are times that clean eating goes right out the window! I have a job that I don't really get much activity in, however, I do try to walk outside when the weather is good.

I am wanting to pursue more things to get me moving and Leslie Sansone's walking videos are helping me do that. I am not getting any younger and I know I need to take better care of my body. I want to become stronger through strength training and feel good when I put on a dress or a new outfit. I want to feel more confident and happier.

How is SparkPeople helping you get there? 
 
I have been a member of SparkPeople for about 12 years. I would come and go, but this time I really want to utilize this awesome website! I can't figure out why I didn't stick around all these years. The articles are full of great information and the coaches are wonderful with their knowledge of all things healthy! I love the recipes, the videos, and the food and fitness trackers, which are all a lifesaver. It's nice being able to track everything in one place. The members are amazing, too! I can't say enough about how they are always there rooting for you, helping you to reach a goal, or just there for a fun laugh to bring your spirits up. 

What's your biggest challenge right now? 
 
I would say my biggest challenge is finding time to work out, but I would only be lying to myself. I know I have time, both before and after work. I know I could find 10 minutes out of every day to do some form of exercise. I need to change my mindset on diet and exercise. I can't change if I don't get off my butt and do the work! I need to up my game with more positive self-talk and motivation. I know I won't get stronger or healthier if I don't change. I have to be willing to change!

What advice do you have for someone who just joined SparkPeople today?
 
My advice for a new SparkPeople member would be to take your time, go slow and learn what you can. You must be willing to change your way of thinking to achieve your goals. Go one day at a time. Read the information the coaches and members have contributed to this awesome website. Read other SparkPages and blogs. There are so many wonderful people who are all here for support and fellowship with others who are working toward their own personal goals. I feel like we are all one big, happy family spread out over this earth. 

Want to be the next small success we spotlight? Share your successes on the goal feed or in the comments below, and you might be the next person we contact!