Build Your Wellness Portfolio

I see many people who have worked their entire lives only to discover that they are ineligible to fully enjoy the fruits of their labor because they did not invest in their health early on. When you think about it, the initial costs of these investments are relatively low and the return is immensely high. Right now is the best time to start listening to those retirees' regrets. By not investing early in your health, you could find yourself tarnishing your "Golden Years." As with all investments, timing, quality and quantity are critical. Making wise choices now is the key to the success of your future wellness. Those who have planned well for their health not only live longer, they live better. They tend to enjoy their financial prosperity more. Overall, even those less financially successful seem to have a much richer life if they have made solid health investments early on.

One thing we know of most investments in health is that relatively small deposits compound over time and yield tremendous results. A ten minute walk every day from now on could buy you the ability to trek across the spring tundra of Alaska on your 80th birthday. Small, wise health investments made over time will yield truly miraculous results. The good news is that health investments are easy to identify. Good deals are out there, and we know what they are - quit smoking, lose weight, eat healthily and become more physically active.

Our biggest mistake is thinking we can start tomorrow. Every day that passes without making a health investment is a lost opportunity to increase our "wellness portfolio." There are 365 days in a year and it is amazing how quickly they pass. What were your health goals one year ago? How many have you met? As with any investment strategy, it is best to start small. Begin by picking one thing that you can do to improve your health. Even the smallest investment has the potential for a tremendous return. Walking 10 minutes a day, every day - no excuses - can and will make a huge difference in your life. Don't believe me? Prove me wrong.

Walk ten minutes a day, every day, for one month and see what happens. When I started my evening walks, it did not take long for the walks to become easier and more enjoyable. Although, I have to admit, some walks have been better than others. I am convinced that I am always the better for it. The improved strength and increased energy I derive from walking are simply dividends being paid to me now on my long-term health investments. The big payoff will come when I am older, provided I continue to invest. Walking is just one example. It is easy to do and does not require any special equipment.

In short, it is difficult to find a valid excuse not to walk. Are you having trouble getting started? Do you need a plan? Luckily, help is out there. The "financial planners" of the health and wellness world are called coaches. Coaches are specially trained professionals that help you understand the process of change and can show you how to get started. They help you set realistic goals and to realize your long-term potential. The best coaches have had personal experience fighting and winning the same battles that you are facing. They have been where you are now and they understand. Although it is never too late to begin your wellness portfolio, the earlier you start the better your results will be. How about today? Consider reaching out for guidance from a skilled professional that can bring you from where you are to where you want to be. It is possible. It has been done by others and you are not alone.

Wellness Coach Dr. Russ L'HommeDieu, PT DPT can be reached by telephone (631) 477-6035 or by fax (631) 614-4291.

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