“If we could change ourselves, the tendencies in the world would also change. As a man changes his own nature, so does the attitude of the world change towards him…”

This quote, attributed to Gandhi, has far-reaching implications in our world today, much as it did when the great man uttered them for the first time.  However, instead of thinking of this phrase as being limited solely to the realm of the social/political, consider for a moment how it might apply to our everyday lives, and specifically to our time spent in the gym.

A client of mine recently told me how thrilled she was when a co-worker commented on how great she looked, and how very apparent it was that she has been working out.  While clearly brightening her day, and reinforcing the belief that her fairly new commitment to improving her health and wellness was indeed paying off, my client also affected the attitude of her co-worker.

Think about the last time someone commented positively on your physique.  Recall how wonderful it made you feel, knowing that all those grueling (yet fun!) hours in the gym were paying off. Now, think about the last time you commented on someone else’s efforts.  No doubt that person’s transformation brought about some changes in your own thought process: “If she could do it, maybe I can too….?” 

The ripple effect of healthy change is powerful.  When your personal scheduling includes dedicated time slots for the gym, when your restaurant choices reflect a desire for more nutritious menu options, when your overall outlook is towards wellness and self-improvement, the tendencies of those in your immediate world are bound to be affected.  By choosing a positive attitude towards a healthier nature, the world around you has no option but to shift as well.

The time has come to heed Gandhi’s words. An attitude of gratitude towards well-being is a gift you give not only to yourself, but to the world around you.  Give it a try…and watch the changes you can bring about in the people you love.