Looking Good, Feeling Great

with Will Mbanga

Several years ago I received an email from best-selling author and international speaker Tony Robbins – not a ‘personal’ email I hasten to add!

He talked about how he had doubled his input in an initiative to help feed two million Americans that year, and something he said in his promotional material really resonated with me. It read: “My success in life will be based on my ability to give, not my ability to take.”

It was quite eye-opening for me, having grown up in Africa, to hear Tony Robbins, an American, speaking about how very real the issues of hunger, deprivation and poverty in America were, given how little media attention and discussion this generates. It was also ironic that this initiative was being advertised and love. Giving gifts, anonymous or expected, is a generous thing to do, but during this tricky period we’re all navigating when perhaps we can’t splash the cash, maybe offering our presence instead of presents will mean so much more. at the same time as the North Help yourself by American tradition of Thanks- helping others giving was taking place. As with Christmas and other festive Whether volunteering with a charity or supporting a friend,events around the world, these studies show that offering helptimes of the year are well known makes us feel good. So whyfor over-consumption and not be a bit selfish this waste, while many struggle. Christmas and help yourself by

A time when families helping others? It’s a win-win! and communities come together In December 2013, the world lost an icon who gave the best of himself so that all people

The one thing I do know, is would know the dignity of that this is one time when being truly free. All around us North American (and increas- we see, hear or read examples ingly more British) families and of men and women from every communities come together and nation who have chosen to celebrate so many good things. give, rather than to take. I wish that all of us could live Let’s keep that in mind this ‘Thanksgiving’ 365 days a year, festive season and see if our rather than just one day. actions can not only improve

Our overall wellbeing is so our own wellbeing, but that of much more than what we friends, family and strangers. achieve in the gym. I like to Happy Christmas!

think of it as ‘the four Fs’. Many of you are likely on a path to improving your life through some of these elements: • Finances: job/business • Fr’amily: relationships with family and friends • Fitness: taking care of your body through exercise, sleep and good nutrition • Faith: taking care of your spiritual wellbeing and mental health It’s true that if your physical body is taken care of, it will perform, endure and enable you to navigate your journey through life. But I think this special time of year reminds us that there is more to life than exercise. As humans, we feel a sense of fulfilment when helping and giving to others. As Christmas draws nearer, friends and family gather, some enjoying precious moments together, others saying their goodbyes. I hope we all use this time to give of ourselves those things which are really important – our time, attention, courtesy, respect The Local Answer To advertise call 01242 510500 Page 9