I just read an article extolling the virtues of setting some worthwhile personal health goals for 2006. It was written by Jon Herring, Health Editor, Early To Rise [1] and it made several good points. I don't want to abuse the privilege of having access to Jon's article but I will share part of one paragraph with you. It's a real gem.
My ultimate long-term health goal is simple: I want to enjoy a healthspan that is equal to my lifespan. In other words, I intend to remain strong, active, and mentally sharp until the day I die of natural causes. To do that, I will make the choices throughout my life that will help prevent the diseases that are largely related to lifestyle - like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
A "healthspan", what a great concept, don't you think? It sums up what many of us try to actively promote -- stay really healthy for your entire life. For me, being healthy isn't about not being sick. That's just way too negative. Being healthy is about enjoying life to the full.
When your life is gone, it's gone. You can't get it back. Why waste it being less than optimally well?
One other thing Jon promotes is making your health goals achievable within 6 weeks. Great idea. Who sticks to resolutions that are supposed to last a whole year? Not many, that's for sure. But 6 weeks, well just go for it. Give it everything. Really make significant improvements in your health. In 6 weeks time you can set some more and by then you'll find new motivation flowing from the very improvements you will already be enjoying.
So don't settle for under-living. Get going, build your health and enjoy more of life.