REGULAR EXERCISE EQUALS SUCCESS

Experience has taught me that achieving balance offers the opportunity for growth not only financially but also physically.

In my own life, moving toward a higher level of fitness through concentrated, consistent exercise has not just been a game changer; it has been a life changer.

While it should be absolutely no surprise to hear that exercise is the cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle (whether you want to lose a few extra pounds or get the six-pack abs you’ve always wanted), the list of positive benefits goes well beyond physical fitness.

In fact, regular exercise can provide psychological benefits such as:

• Improved mood

• Higher self-esteem

• Enhanced brain function

• Reduced mental fatigue

• Diminished anxiety

These are all very good reasons to head to the gym or take a brisk walk after reading this article.

Exercise = higher salaries?

If these benefits are not motivation enough, then consider this: regular exercise has been linked to higher salaries.

According to a 2012 study published in the Journal of Labor Research, employees who exercise regularly (at least three hours each week) earn 9 percent more, on average, than employees who don’t.

Previous studies had tried to confirm the relationship between exercise and income, but proved merely that regular exercise was correlated to a higher salary.

In this study, researchers at Cleveland State University used “propensity-score matching” to compare employees with similar work ethics and backgrounds (health history, education, experience, etc.). When exercise was the only independent variable, the study found that people who exercise regularly earned more, on average, than those who didn’t exercise. The study also found that employees who didn’t have a history of healthy behavior saw an increase in productivity after starting a regular exercise routine, and they often received a raise as a result.

SYNC FITNESS & FINANCIAL GOALS

Realizing your fitness goals is much like realizing your financial goals. Both are journeys that begin with just one step.

Seek What Is Important

Set long- and short-term goals. To bring balance, you need to nourish and support the goals that are important to you. In deciding these goals, consider the pleasure and fulfillment that accomplishing them will bring you.

Visualize What You Want To Accomplish

Focus and prioritize. Rome wasn’t built in a day! Visualize where you want to be. Visualize the joy along the way and the satisfaction when you get there.

Accept Responsibility

Make a commitment. Don’t delude yourself: Is it a belief or truth that you can or cannot take the steps necessary to meet your goals? Be responsible and accountable for yourself.

Work Out A Plan

Schedule time to identify the steps needed to help accomplish your goals. “Exercise” faithfulness in following the plan.

Be smart about achieving your goals

Be realistic and develop goals that are challenging but not overwhelming. Remember, make your goals SMART: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-bound.

Of course, results will vary from person to person. Regardless, one thing is certain: exercise has been linked to many positive effects on the body and mind. Therefore, do yourself a favor and start working out regularly. If it doesn’t show in your paycheck, it may provide benefits in the form of lower health care bills and increased longevity.

So get out there and get moving!

SOURCE:businesstime

September 2013

A Taste of Simply Sumter

Distinctive local restaurants will serve samples of signature dishes to help fund scholarships for graduating seniors at Wildwood High School, South Sumter High School, and The Villages Charter High School. Presented by the Sumter County Chamber of Commerce, the event will include live entertainment and a silent auction. $25 in advance, $30 at door. Location: Providence Independence, 7676 Rio Grande Blvd., Wildwood. Information: 352.793.3099

Corporate Spelling Bee Fundraiser

Local businesses and corporate sponsors will compete as teams in a spelling bee to raise scholarship funds for financially at-risk students in Lake and Sumter counties. Spectators are encouraged to cheer for favorite teams. Dinner will be provided. $25 for spectators; $1,000 for a team of eight; $400 for a team of four. Time: 5:30p.m. Location: Lake Receptions, Mount Dora. Information: 352.787.6576

“Go for the Green” Golf Classic

Business professionals and community leaders will join together for the 16th annual golf classic that supports quality healthcare in Lake, Sumter, and Marion counties and benefits the Leesburg Regional Medical Center Foundation. Location: Mission Inn Resort & Club. Information: 352.323.5502

Monster Challenges

This mud obstacle event comes with a fourmile course filled with obstacles, mud, and water. Register through monsterchallenges.com ; $55 early registration from July 1 – Sept. 2; $65 after Sept. 3. Location: Arnold Groves, Clermont. Information: 352.978.2898.

Spirit on the Run 5K

Put on your running shoes for an invigorating 5K (3.2 miles) to benefit The Villages Charter High School Athletics and the Sumter County Chamber of Commerce. Pep rally, 8a.m.; run, 9a.m. Medals awarded to first, second, and third place runners in several age groups. Location: The Villages Polo Grounds Information: 352.793.3099.

6 12 13 14 15

Seasons Change Kayak Tour (September 15–28)

Kayak the Florida swamps and learn how people lived on the river generations ago. All equipment is provided; dress comfortably and bring lunch or snacks. Tours begin at 8:30am. Reservations required. Fee: $59. Location: Blackwater Lake, Eustis. Information: 352.589.7899 or email jenniferkayaks@yahoo.com.

Cattle Baron’s Ball

Featuring country music artist John Anderson, this Denim & Diamonds western-themed gala includes gourmet western fare, live and silent auctions, casino games, an Irish derby, a signature drink, Patron shots, entertainment, and dancing. One of the hottest events in Lake and Sumter counties, the ball raises funds for the American Cancer Society. 6 – 11p.m. at Lake Receptions, Mount Dora. Website: www.cattlebaronsballlake.com.

Information: 352.326.9599, ext. 5706

North American Migration Count

Bird watching enthusiasts are encouraged to help park rangers conduct an annual fall migration count of the birding population. Times are from 7 – 10a.m. at PEAR Park, 4800 University Ave., Leesburg and from 5 – 8p.m. at Ferndale Preserve, 19220 County Road 455, Ferndale. Free. Register with Lake County Parks & Trails. Information: 352.253.4950

Charity Golf Tournament

New Beginnings continues its mission to help homeless families and children by hosting its annual Charity Golf Tournament at the Orange County National Golf Course. Entry fees fund homeless recovery programs. Show your support and enroll your foursome. Sponsorship opportunities are still available.

Website: newbeginningslake.org

Information: 352.617.8788

Rifles, Rails & History (September 27-30)

Hop aboard the Orange Blossom Cannonball #2 Steam Locomotive in the Tavares Waterfront District for three days of living history as guests steam back to the Civil War era. Watch the re-enactors parade down Main Street into Wooton Park for artillery and cavalry demonstrations, drills, historic presentations, and exhibits. A ladies tea and a formal ball will round out this first-time event.

Website: riflesrailsandhistory.com

Information: 321.377.8953

15th Annual Athletics Golf Classic

Tee off to support Lake-Sumter State College student athletes. Held at Arlington Ridge Golf Course, this annual golf event is a great way to “Swing for Education.” Proceeds fund scholarships for local student athletes who have excelled academically during their high school careers.

Information: 352.365.3518