Setting A Healthy Example

How many of us hear that we are role models every day? Well, it's true. What we do really has a big impact on what the younger/next generation does. This is a lot of pressure on us to do well and to set good examples in any and all aspects of our lives. Yes, I mean all aspects of our lives. From the little things, like doing your homework and reading to looking for cars when crossing a busy street, to the big things like eating healthy and listening to what everyone has to say, the eyes of whoever admires you are following every move you make and every step you take.
I have a younger sister who I try and set a good example for by staying positive when things are getting rough and teasing her when she gets down. We love to do things together, and while our eight year age gap can be a barrier sometimes, it doesn't stop her from coming down to my room to watch our favorite scenes from Frozen or Rise of the Guardians or looking at Pinterest and listening to music. I've been thinking of even giving her a Musica Monday recently since she has some music in her arsenal that I have not yet heard.
One of the seemingly hardest ways to set an example, especially in our modern society, is to set a healthy example. I found a list at chosemyplate.gov that talked about being a healthy role model for children, and my list here will be loosely based off of that list.

1. Watch what you do. The eyes of your admirers are always watching you, be it fans or siblings or your employees, they look to you for what they should be doing and they will always follow your lead.

2. Have fun wherever you go. It's important to remember that life is not just about being serious, having fun is still a major part and if your siblings or employees see you relaxing and having fun with life, that positive energy is more likely to transfer to them. Even if it's in the kitchen, make food fun or make the workday enjoyable when you can! No one wants to be bored all day.

3. Listen to what they say. Make sure to understand when your sibling asks for your help, they are asking you instead of mommy or daddy. Remember, it might have taken that employee all day to get the courage up to ask you the question or tell you about something. Listen to what they have to say and really take it in, don't ever brush it off, it seems like you are just brushing them off as well.

4. Limit TV, encourage physical activity. There's more to do than watch TV! Get out and do stuff together, it encourages physical activity and is a great way for children to build their social skills. Not to mention, it's fun :)

5. Be a good food role model. Try new foods, and understand that not everyone will like every food (do you?). Don't make anything different for dinner for someone (unless dietary restrictions apply) just because they don't like the food you are serving. Tell them to either eat dinner or make their own (usually solves any sort of problems).

Alright, so this post was a bit different and still feels slightly sloppy, but I wanted to get this small list out there and see what the response was! I've got some things planned for this month and it is going to be a busy month! I'm moving on the 29th!!!!!! Signed the lease!!! So much stuff to get ready! Ahhhh!

Love,
Sara :)