I quoted Tom Venuto yesterday, and I’ll be doing it a lot today. I found his blog and loved every word. It was a whole new plethora of information, and in todays case motivation. I loved all of it.
“People will stay the same until the pain of staying the same is greater than the pain of changing.” – Tom Venuto
The Hubby sent me a link to a post in Tom’s blog yesterday all about putting your health first on your priority list.
“You have to put yourself first” – Tom Venuto
There are so many demands in life. That doesn’t mean you can’t have some demands of your own. I’m happiest when I’m healthy. I’m still not quite healthy is the honest truth, but I’m completely happy because I know I’m making the necessary changes needed to obtain my optimal health. I have simply made myself a priority.
“..how do you take care of your family without your own health? Taking care of youself IS taking care of your family!” – Tom Venuto
I haven’t neglected my family by spending time in the gym. I’m actually able to give my family and everyone around me much more, because of the health and energy I’ve gained from going to the gym.
“If you think that’s so selfish because your family needs to come first, then what happens when you’re so out of shape and out of breath just from walking, that you cant play basketball with your son?” – Tom Venuto
This one really hit me. I have two boys. It also reminded me that my hubby needs a chance to workout as well. Whenever he asks for time to go to the gym I make sure he gets it. He’s happier, less stressed, and more focused. He does better at work, and home. Most importantly he’s taking care of himself.
You’re Stressed? STOP, Focus, and Re-Prioritize
Focusing on breathing is a great way to slow things down long enough to re-prioritize. Make sure when your making a list…
“…make priority list, not “to do list.” To do list are usually filled up with busywork that’s not that important. Priorities are the things that are most important to you, that will provide the greatest happiness and tangible results for you.” – Tom Venuto
I just sat down and starting to make a “priority list” I’m good at “To Do” lists, but this was hard. I kept putting down things that weren’t important. Then I stopped took a few breaths and realized…The world won’t come to and end if I don’t get those gifts mailed off in time. That eating right, and exercising today might be the best thing I can do for myself and for my family. Once I make time for that, then I can make time for other tasks.
I’m going to reach my goal. I’m going to complete it for myself. My children will be blessed to have a healthy, energetic, confident mother who achieves goals. Self-esteem (self worth) is a very important thing to teach my children. Leading by example is the best way for them to learn.
“Is that selfish?
Yes.
But it’s appropriately selfish.
Being appropriately selfish is not about bucking your responsibilities. It‘s not about ONLY taking care of yourself. It‘s about putting your priorities in the right order. And it‘s one of the keys to great health, happiness and personal success” – Tom Venuto
Well, enough said. It’s time for me to stop blogging and start taking care of me =)
Most of Tom Venuto’s quotes from today came from his recent post “Want To Lose Weight And Keep It Off Forever? Be “Appropriately Selfish!” on his BurnTheFatBlog.

December 18th, 2008 at 7:03 pm
I was also really motivated after reading through that article. I’ve been following Tom Venuto for a couple years now and I think that article was one of the best he’s written. Really hits you and makes you think.
December 18th, 2008 at 8:24 pm
Sounds like a great blog. I have to check it out! I’m glad that you have found that going to the gym and taking some time for yourself has actually been a positive for your whole family!
December 18th, 2008 at 9:13 pm
I was beginning to wonder if every one was already on their vacations. Tomorow will be my big post until after Christmas.
Thanks for the great comments! Time for me to hit the gym =)
December 19th, 2008 at 4:28 am
dont hate me for being off topic
will we get to see any of the earrings you made?!
I covet other people’s crafting skillz.
December 19th, 2008 at 10:37 am
No need to covet, but you may need pliers.
Ask and ye shall receive. Took the photos, but didn’t think it was fitness relative. However, just making something builds confidence. That effects my attitude and fitness goals. It definitely had an effected on my financial fitness.
Heading out to the post office, but will let you know when their up =)
December 19th, 2008 at 10:40 am
I like that, “appropriately selfish”. It is so true. After all, if doctors spent all their time looking after patients and not looking after themselves, then THEY would get sick and we’d be in a real pickle. No one would be able to look after them, and no one would be able to look after the patients either.
We need to take care of ourselves sometimes for the very reason so that we can take care of others too.
December 19th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
I like this, too. It’s easy to get burned out, especially if you’re your kids primary caregiver. I was ours for 4 years…my husband has been taking a turn for the past 3, and I think this is something he still needs to learn to do more often.
December 19th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
Sagan:
I love the Dr/pickle analogy. It is hard to give what you don’t have.
Pubsgal:
It’s been 3 years for me so far. Luckily the hubby graduates soon, and then it’s my turn to learn something new. I found a local artist who teaches classes on weekends. It’s good to make sure I’m still learning, growing, and developing new skills.
December 20th, 2008 at 8:13 am
This is awesome…I’m going to read his blog right now. Thanks for sharing.