How often have you heard, “I’m not going to change my habits, I’m too old, I’m too set in my ways.” Or how many times have you told yourself, “Ahhh, it’s just too much work, it doesn’t matter if I start changing my eating habits or exercising differently, I’m too old for it to make a difference anyway.”

From my chair, often I hear folks get defeated before they begin. They’ve already talked themselves into believing that no matter how hard they try, they can’t make much of a difference in their health. Really? How can “not that much” be a bad thing? Wouldn’t it be better to think you can make a small change (anything) every day, adding up to years of better health?

Well, enter two amazing clients I have had the pleasure to work with recently.  Dell and George. They are a married couple and wanted to become healthier; together. Dell wanted to lose a few pounds, know which foods are healthier as well as becoming more flexible and mobile. George wanted to “lose his pooch” (cutest thing I’ve heard in a long time) and eat foods to help his memory in addition to becoming more flexible and mobile. The kicker is George will be 90 in 2 months and Dell is young and vibrant at 86 years of age! What an inspiration to see people completely open to changing their health and knowing (not hoping) that improved fitness and nutrition will extend their lives and live with enhanced quality.

I’ve been working with them for just over a month. George has lost his pooch and Dell has lost several pounds as well, which has motivated her to continue not just with weight loss, but with adding vital nutrients and flexibility into their lives! In addition, they are exercising more frequently and are not just losing weight, but feeling better, moving more and making much much healthier and easier choices. They’ve motivated their children as well!

Whenever I think of them, I am completely inspired to continue on my own healthy path. We need more Dell’s and George’s in our lives to challenge our traditional boundaries and to open our minds to long and healthy mindsets!

Next time you feel you are “too old” remember that if George can lose his pooch at 90 and Dell has cut out her favorite fast food treats and replaced her menu with healthy low sodium choices; maybe you will realize you are quite young and change can be easily made!