What Are We Fighting For

When we talk about the motivation to lose weight and get in shape, it is usually in the context of improving our appearance. And why not? Numerous studies have linked attractiveness to overall success (most notably Richard M. Lerner's 1985 study of school children). Looking good is no longer just about attracting a suitable mate; it is now recognized as a testament to our self-discipline that reflects subconsciously on our ability to be effective as leaders and managers. Which is not to say there are not leaders who are effective and overweight (Gov. Chris Christie of NJ, Oprah, to name two), but their struggle with weight management is brought up enough to be of concern.

But looks and success aside, there is a greater issue that we do not usually connect to as Americans. That carrying additional weight and not exercising daily will kill us. Not might, it will. Each day is a test, a test to determine how many tomorrows we will have. We are quite literally fighting for our lives. It is irrelevant if we succeed in our chosen career only to drop dead at sixty because we failed to properly manage the most important piece of equipment ever entrusted to us. Because that is what a body is: your car, house, tv, and children all rolled into one. Fail it and it will fail you. Care for it properly (30 minutes of outdoor exercise and 5+ servings of veggies a day) and it will take care of you.