Does healthy food really taste good?

We live in a time when processed and convenience foods dominate our diets to such an extent that many people have lost the ability to appreciate and enjoy “real” food—food that is fresh, whole, and minimally processed. This shift in eating habits has not only affected our taste buds but also our perceptions of what it means to eat well. Unfortunately, when someone makes the conscious choice to eat healthier, it’s often misunderstood as being on a restrictive “diet” rather than a choice to nourish the body with wholesome foods.

This misunderstanding sometimes leads to social pressures and even mockery,

as choosing real food over junk food is seen as unusual. Our society has become so used to consuming fast food, sugary snacks, and overly processed meals that these have become the norm. As a result, the idea of eating fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins is sometimes met with resistance or seen as an unnecessary challenge.

For those who have made the commitment to prioritize healthy eating, the allure of junk food diminishes over time. The craving for highly processed, sugary, or fatty foods often fades, replaced by a genuine preference for foods that fuel the body and mind. This shift in mindset and taste can make it easier to bypass the temptations of junk food, not because of strict self-discipline, but because the desire for it simply isn’t there anymore.

It’s also important to recognize that eating well doesn’t mean denying yourself all indulgences. For example, if I find myself in Italy, a place known for its incredible cuisine, I wouldn’t hesitate to enjoy a slice of authentic pizza. However, outside of such special circumstances, I might choose to skip it, knowing that my usual diet serves my health and well-being better.

Learning to say no is a powerful skill that goes beyond food choices. It’s about making decisions that align with our values, priorities, and long-term goals, even when it means going against societal norms or facing criticism. Whether it’s passing on a slice of cake at a party or choosing to prepare a home-cooked meal instead of ordering takeout, these choices reflect a deeper understanding of what truly nourishes us. We need to embrace the idea that it’s okay to say no to things that don’t serve us, whether that’s junk food, unhealthy habits, or any other aspect of life that doesn’t align with our well-being.

The importance of exercise for physical and mental health

People often ask why I exercise so much, pointing out that I’m already “skinny” enough. But for me, exercise isn’t just about how I look; it’s a crucial part of who I am and how I feel. When I don’t get some form of exercise each day, it’s as if something vital is missing from my routine. It’s not just a habit but a necessity for my mental and emotional health. Exercise helps me manage anxiety, reduces stress, and gives me a sense of clarity and calm that nothing else can provide.

People tend to focus on the physical benefits,

like weight loss or muscle tone, but they overlook how transformative exercise can be for the mind. I’ve found that when I’m active, I’m more focused, more positive, and better equipped to handle life’s challenges. The saying, “A body in motion stays in motion,” resonates deeply with me because I’ve experienced the other side of it. There was a time when I became really heavy, and the impact on my body was undeniable—my back ached, my knees were constantly sore, and I felt sluggish and uncomfortable in my own skin.

Exercise was my way out of that cycle, and it became much more than a tool for physical change. It’s my therapy, my stress relief, and my way of ensuring that I’m taking care of myself inside and out. When I move, I feel alive, connected, and in control. So when people tell me I’m already “skinny enough,” I want them to understand that for me, exercise is not about reaching a certain size or shape. It’s about maintaining a healthy mind and body, staying active to avoid the physical pain I once felt, and ensuring that I’m living my life to the fullest potential.

Living a healthy lifestyle without caring about others’ opinions

No matter what you do in life, people will always have something to say.  When you start making better choices in life and bettering yourself, some of your friends may make comments.  This is because you are doing the work in making yourself better.  This may put the mirror on others and make them more aware of things they need to work on however choose not to do so.


It is an inevitable truth that regardless of our actions and decisions, there will always be individuals expressing their opinions. When we embark on a journey of self-improvement and start making wiser choices, it is not uncommon for our acquaintances to voice their thoughts. This occurs because our personal growth serves as a reflection for others, highlighting areas they might also need to address, but consciously choose not to pursue.

What have been some benefits of me quitting drinking for good?

There have been countless advantages of quitting alcohol. Both physically and mentally.  My skin is not as dry or red.  Face is less puffy.  Overall body is not as puffy or bloated.  Better sleep.  Fewer alcohol related symptoms like headache, heartburn, indigestion and upset stomach.  Today I’m able to get proper sleep and rest.  Anxiety and nervousness have been suppressed.  I no longer crave greasy fast food as I did before.  When drinking my joints used to hurt.  Overall now I’m completely aware of how important it is to take care of myself both mentally and physically.

View exercise and eating healthy as a lifestyle not a diet

We need to make the choice that exercising and eating real healthy foods is a part of our lifestyle and not a “diet”.If we commit to a diet for an amount of time, we will only go back to making poor choices when we stop the diet.  When I was around 17 years old, I drastically reduced the amount of food I was eating.  This really reduced the amount of energy I had.  I also became flabby skinny from not eating properly.  I later learned it was better to consistently eat healthy foods to support a healthy lifestyle.

Never stop learning

Act like a sponge in life and always be willing to soak up new information

It’s so important to constantly challenge ourselves and learn new things.  I stay away from people who think they know everything.  I also choose to surround myself with people who have more skills than me.  If I’m the best at something on a team then I will never get better.  Always be willing to read, take classes, meet new people and constantly learn.