How a Rodeo Taught Me the Secret to Success in Health & Life

If you're like me, you recognize areas in your life that need improvement. Personally, I am constantly refining, always striving to be better.

This past weekend, as I watched my daughter Ava compete in one of her final high school rodeos, I found myself reflecting on this journey of refinement. Ava is vying for a spot in the Texas State Finals, and the competition is fierce. We traveled nearly seven hours round trip for just 42 seconds of race time, split between two runs. Despite my playful pleas for her to slow down so I can savor the moment, she remains laser-focused on optimizing every second of her performance.

Ava’s dedication is remarkable. She meticulously assesses every detail—her posture, her horse’s movements, the pressure of her legs, the precision of her turns—all in an effort to shave off hundredths of a second. She and her horse operate as a single unit, a testament to the power of teamwork, strategy, and continuous improvement. As I sat on those cold, hard bleachers, I realized how much Ava’s journey mirrors the process of self-improvement in our own lives, particularly when it comes to health and mindset.

The Pursuit of Holistic Success

By midlife, many of us assume we have life figured out—until we realize that, in fact, we don’t. We desire better health, deeper relationships, personal achievements, and more fulfillment. Yet, achieving success in any area requires the same level of assessment and refinement that Ava applies to her rodeo runs. We must take a step back, evaluate our current state, and make intentional, small shifts that lead to lasting change.

A well-known Arabian proverb states, “When you have your health, you have a thousand wishes. When you don’t, you have but one.” How true this is! Even the smallest health discomfort, like a yeast infection, or stubbing our toe, can consume our entire focus. This underscores the importance of prioritizing our health—physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Taking Inventory: Your Personal Health and Mindset Assessment

Let’s begin by taking stock of where we are today. Grab a journal and follow this simple exercise:

1. Draw a Line Down the Page

   • On the left side, list all the positives and strengths in your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

   • On the right side, list areas that need improvement or adjustment.

2. Define Your Vision

   • What does optimal health look and feel like to you?

   • What are your goals for physical wellness, mental clarity, and spiritual fulfillment?

3. Identify What’s Holding You Back

   • Write down your limitations or any beliefs that have been preventing you from reaching your goals.

   • Now, cross them out! Imagine they no longer exist—what does your life look like now?

4. Wave Your Magic Wand

   • If you had a magic wand and could create your ideal life, what would it look like? Allow yourself to dream without constraints.

Transformational Stories: Small Shifts, Big Results

I’ve witnessed incredible transformations from individuals who embraced these micro-adjustments in their lives:

• MaryAnn’s Story: Marian came to me in despair—260 pounds, battling invasive breast cancer, barely able to leave her couch, and losing hope in her marriage. Through consistent, small lifestyle changes, she shed over 100 pounds, completed a 100-mile bike ride, and danced all night at her daughter’s wedding. Her husband’s words still bring tears to my eyes: “Thank you for putting the twinkle back in my bride’s eyes.”
  
  

• Karen’s Story: Karen, a Magic Menopause participant, was ready to sell her beloved horse after not riding for two years. She simply wished for one last ride. Within eight weeks of making small shifts, she was back in the saddle—competing again with renewed energy and confidence.
  
  

The Power of Micro Adjustments

Transformation doesn’t require an overhaul; it starts with micro-adjustments. Midlife isn’t about drastic reinvention—it’s about refinement. The choices we make each day shape our long-term success. Begin with your morning routine—I’ve shared my Keto Green Miracle Morning before, and it’s a great place to start. Identify habits that no longer serve you and replace them with ones that elevate you.

Next, examine your daily routine:

• Where can you insert moments of physical activity, even if it’s just five minutes?

• What foods fuel your body optimally?

• How can you protect your mental and spiritual space?

Here's my comprehensive morning routine that's helping me prepare for my surgery and could help you thrive too:

1. Wake Up with Gratitude and Silence (Miracle Morning: Silence) 

Each morning, I begin by expressing gratitude. Sometimes it's as simple as whispering "Thank you for this day," other times I journal three specific blessings. I then spend 5-10 minutes in silence through meditation or prayer. 

2. Hydrate and Alkalinize (Keto-Green Foundation) 

My morning begins with my Alkalinizing Detox Beverage:

- Large glass of warm water

- ½ teaspoon of lemon juice

- ½ to 1 tablespoon of unfiltered apple cider vinegar

- ¼ to ½ teaspoon of baking soda (if pH is low)

Or simply mix two scoops of  Mighty Maca® Plus into water for an alkalinizing boost.

3. Affirmations and Visualization (Miracle Morning: Affirmations & Visualization) 

I've created specific affirmations for my healing journey: "My body is strong and prepared for healing. I am vibrant, healthy, and radiating positive energy." I visualize my body getting stronger each day, preparing for successful surgery and recovery.

4. Move Your Body (Miracle Morning: Exercise) 

Morning movement is crucial for blood flow, focus, and energy throughout the day. I do a 10-minute yoga flow or take a mindful walk outside. Throughout the day I have incorporated exercise snacks and a focus on rebuilding my chest muscles. This can be whatever resonates with you.

5. Nourish with a Keto-Green Breakfast 

My pre-surgery power shake includes:

- 1 to 2 scoops Keto-Green® Protein Shake powder

- Handful of organic greens

- ½ avocado

- 2 scoops Mighty Maca® Plus

- 1 tablespoon MCT oil or Phosphatidylcholine

- Dash of cardamom

- 8 ounces of water with ice

6. Journaling and Planning (Miracle Morning: Scribing) 

I spend 5 to 10 minutes journaling about my healing journey, setting intentions, and planning my day. This practice helps me stay focused on my health goals and maintain emotional balance.

 7. Test and Track 

I monitor my urinary pH and ketones daily. This data helps me ensure my body maintains the optimal alkaline environment needed for healing.

8. Embrace the Sunrise 

I make it a point to step outside and greet the morning sun. This simple practice regulates my circadian rhythm and boosts vitamin D - both crucial for healing and overall wellness.

Finally, refine your evening routine for deep, restorative sleep. (Be sure to check out my Sleep Ebook for insights on optimizing your sleep.)

Action Steps for Your Transformation

1. Complete the Journal Pages: Reflect on your strengths, weaknesses, goals, and ideal vision.

2. Make One Small Adjustment: Pick one area to refine—perhaps it’s drinking more water, committing to a daily gratitude practice, or eliminating processed foods.

3. Celebrate Your Progress: Acknowledge your wins, no matter how small.

4. Tap Into Additional Resources:
   
   🎧 Podcasts:
   👉 Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs and Transforming your Life (it’s possible!)
   👉 Vision Boarding, Boundaries with Natalie
   
   📖 Books: Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod
   
   📔 Articles & Ebooks:
   💤 Sleep eBook
   📅 Vision Board Guide
   
   

You Are Worth It

As I watch Ava make her final run, I remind myself: that she has invested hundreds of hours to improve by mere seconds. We, too, can commit to refining our health and mindset—one small step at a time. Each micro-adjustment shifts the trajectory of our lives for the better.

So, what will your next right step be?

Download the journal pages, visualize your ideal self, and start refining today. The journey is yours to embrace, and I’m here to cheer you on every step of the way.