By COURTNEY MONTGOMERY, SBJ Columnist

What is your motivation?

I first embarked on my journey to a healthier lifestyle about 14 years ago when our daughter, Eva, was born. I felt that it was my role as her mom to feed her well and be an example of how to take care of the body God had given me. I also wanted to feel my best, so I would have the energy and stamina to take care of a rambunctious toddler! As I went on to have our other two daughters, Caroline and Madeline, I sought to grow in my knowledge of living a healthy lifestyle. I knew I felt my best when I moved my body daily and ate foods that fueled me.

This routine has evolved from trying to get a very short workout in and eat semi-healthy on little sleep from being up with one of the kids in the middle of the night or just being busy during the day as a stay-at-home mom. So those of you still in the thick of this, give yourself plenty of grace!

Bottom line, I knew as a wife and mom who never slowed down, I needed to do whatever I could on my part to be the healthiest for them and open myself for whatever callings the Lord placed in my path as well. From this, I gained a strong desire to help others in their health and wellness journey. It gives me great joy to see a smile on the face of one of my participants in class, see my personal training clients getting stronger, or seeing my nutrition clients develop healthy eating habits that make them feel amazing.

So I ask you: what’s your motivation? What keeps you going and makes you want to be stronger, healthier, and live life the best you can? Let what motivates you drive you to start a journey that can change your life.

I am a fitness instructor with REFIT Revolution, and at our instructor training, they asked us to find our “why.” Why did I want to become a fitness instructor? Why was I there? My “why” was and still is to impact others and encourage them on their health journeys. I want to see lives changed from the inside out, realizing that they are wonderfully, uniquely made and have so much to offer this world.

By slowly and steadily charging forward, making small changes along the way, realizing your “why” and what motivates you, you will see changes that will last a lifetime and will feel your best to serve those you love, pursue your calling, and make an impact in this world.

Courtney Montgomery, a certified Holistic Nutrition Coach and Registered Nurse, is passionate about enhancing the health of individuals. In her coaching practice, she focuses on instilling a sustainable approach to self-care, rejecting crash diets and body shaming. Courtney teaches clients to embrace intuitive eating, empowering them to trust their bodies and gain confidence in their journey. Excited to share valuable tips, she is dedicated to supporting you on your wellness journey.