The F Factor & Blinders

I always thought it was cruel to put blinders on horses, but now I’m having second thoughts. Maintaining a singular focus or what I like to call the F Factor seems impossible for many of us without the benefit of blinders to keep our eyes from straying to the distractions around us. For a person like me, distractions are a particular problem in the pursuit of my goals.

Tennis phenomenon Venus Williams is known for her focus and determination. Throughout her career, this two-time Olympic gold medalist has encountered many hurdles and criticisms, but she’s refused to let these distract her from tennis excellence.

I want the focus and tenacity of Venus Williams. Instead of being worried or distracted by the obstacles in my way, I want to keep my eyes on the goal line for my life. Instead of zigging and zagging through life, I want to take the straightest line to the end zone. I don’t want to let anything or anyone stop me in my mission.

As Americans, we live in a very distracting society. We have responsibilities that are often bewildering and draining: family, job, finances, health, church and friends all compete for our time and attention. If we do not have our eyes fixed steadfastly on the goal line, there will always be people who have agendas for our lives.

A question must be asked when people ask us to participate in a certain task: Would this activity lead me in the direction of the goal line for my life? As German writer and artist Johann Wolfgang von Goethe reminds us, “Things that matter most must never be at the mercy of things that matter least.”

The next time you see a horse with blinders on, remember this:  Blinders are your friend and not your enemy.  By eliminating distractions, you will be amazed at how much clearer the goal will appear.   

            

What about you?

List some of the ways putting on blinders can increase a singular focus or The F factor in your life?

Walk With A Doc This Valentines Day!

I recently heard about a wonderful program for heart patients and potential heart patients through one of my patients. It’s called “Walk With A Doc.” Walk with a Doc was created by Dr. David Sabgir, a board-certified cardiologist who practices with Mount Carmel Clinical Cardiovascular Specialists—at Mount Carmel St. Ann's in Columbus, Ohio, (My hometown).

Dr. Sabgir's walking program is led by doctors all over the country. I can’t think of a safer way to exercise than to have my doctor right next to me on a walk!

Regular aerobic exercise is critical for the health of your heart. You’ve heard it a million times – exercise is essential for good health, for weight loss or maintenance and for optimal mental health. An inactive lifestyle is one of the main reasons why people develop heart disease in the first place, so exercise is a critical component to maintaining a healthy heart! Regular aerobic exercise has many benefits in addition to maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system.

The risk for heart disease increases with age, with men at greater risk than women. The risk for men typically begins around the age of 45, while women seem to be protected up to the age of 55 due to the hormonal benefits associated with menopause.

When considering a heart-healthy exercise routine, it is important to keep in mind the following:

 •Thirty minutes of moderate exercise is recommended everyday, or at least most days of the week. This can be broken down into three 10-minute intervals.

•Exercising with a friend helps you to maintain a regular schedule, makes exercise more “social” and can help sustain motivation.

•Varying your routine keeps your interest level elevated.

•You do not need to join a gym or invest in expensive equipment. Brisk walking, biking, swimming, skating, skiing, rowing, tennis and jogging all count as aerobic exercise.

•Remember to include a five-minute warm-up, (e.g., stretching exercises) before any aerobic activity and a five- to 10-minute cool down period following any aerobic exercise.

•Choose an activity that you enjoy, or learn a new one, to maintain interest in your heart-healthy program. “I personally love power walking.”

•Keep in mind that the best exercise is the one that makes you feel good – and is one that you are willing to repeat again and again on a regular basis.

Consider Walking!

 According to the American Heart Association, walking has the lowest dropout rate of any physical activity. Cardiovascular disease can be controlled through a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Make walking a part of your fitness regimen. If you are looking for accountability and a healthy community consider the “Walk With A Doc” program. You can find out more by visiting www.walkwithadoc.org  Join your doctor and other people looking to improve their health at the next Walk With A Doc event. Ask your doctor for details.

Happy Valentines Day!

Nurse Mary