Today’s run to the beach and back was definitely the most eventful so far. First off, I was clipped by a taxi on the way (life flashed before my eyes and everything)! Then I was soaked by a rogue wave as I climbed over the rocks and not just a splash, but a head-to-toe, made-me-gasp unexpected dunking. Finally as I ran back along to where I’d left my shoes, I noticed a man changing into his shorts in a little cove. I may be Bermudian now, but the English girl is still alive and well, so I obviously pretended I hadn’t noticed. I slowed down, gazed out to sea and gave him enough time to reclaim his modesty. When I was 100 per cent sure I’d given him enough space, I ran towards my shoes about 30 feet away. Except he wasn’t fully clothed, he was now lying completely naked, face up, stretched out on a towel. I’m not sure if it’s common for pensioners to sun themselves in the nude on Warwick Long Bay (in winter might I add!) but I then had a moment of absolutely not knowing what to do. Fetch my shoes but get closer (I’m not a prude but this was not a good naked situation), or run for the hills? I’ve always wanted to be a barefoot runner, but given my luck so far I thought footwear for the home stretch might be wise. I ran over, said ‘Good morning’ (see, Bermudian), picked up my shoes and fled. Robbed of the opportunity to rinse my feet in the ocean, I swore all the way home. I love pink sand, but not in my socks.

Despite those little dramas, I still arrived home feeling amazing — sweaty, accomplished and focused. It didn’t used to feel good when I ran. To start with, it felt as if every organ in my body was banging together (which it probably was) and I was overall embarrassed by the shape I was in. But I’d set myself a goal and was too proud to quit. I wanted to stop, but I wanted to not stop more ... and that mindset became my saving grace.

Whether or not you achieve your health goals in 2017 will depend on a number of things. Having watched people hit the mark or fall short for over 12 years, I’ve grown good at spotting the people who are genuinely ready to change. Ultimately, you’ll know you’ve succeeded when you’re living a healthy life because you genuinely want to, not because you have to. Here are my three top tips for getting yourself there:

1. Be determined

Do what you love but be prepared to put the work in to make it something you love. You’ve got to get through the discomfort first, whether it’s putting your body through a tough workout or allowing your taste buds to adapt to simpler food. If it doesn’t challenge you, it’s not going to feel so good when you get to your goal, so grit your teeth and embrace the awkward, painful or exhausting moments. It’s all part of the process. Step up!

2. Be realistic, be guided

It’s really important to pick a realistic goal, so make sure you are working with a professional that can help you establish something suitable. For example, it may be that measuring your weight isn’t the best idea for you and that tracking body composition — especially fat loss — is a better marker for success. If you’re starting out running, you might not want to go for a marathon straight away. Take a good look at how much time you have to train and any injury history too, then chat with a trainer to make sure you’ve set your sights on something practical.

3. Be committed

Set your goals and then commit. Some people find it’s helpful if they share their goals with friends, family or co-workers so that they are accountable every day. Signing up to a programme or membership is a great way to follow through on early motivation. At Natural, we’ve just launched a new membership that begins (January 6) with a two-week clean eating detox and follows through with 18 other wellness events through the year. Come to some or all, it’s $250 for the entire year so it’s just about the best deal out there! We also have Nutrifit starting on January 26 and Beat the Couch (season 9) starting on February 23. Finally, we’ve partnered with Court House to bring you the official Bermuda Triple Challenge training for 2017 — so if you’ve always wanted to navigate 75 obstacles over three amazing locations in three days, now is your chance! Training begins on January 9 and the events take place the weekend of March 17. So whether you’re just starting out or looking for something a little more hardcore, we’ve got something for everyone. Check out our new website at www.natural.bm for details.

The advice given in this article is not intended to replace medical advice, but to complement it. Always consult your GP if you have any health concerns. Catherine Burns is the managing director of Natural Ltd and a fully qualified nutritional therapist trained by the Institute for Optimum Nutrition in the UK. Please note that she is not a registered dietitian. For details, please go to www.natural.bm or call 236-7511. Join Catherine on Facebook: www.facebook.com/nutrifitandnaturalnutritionbermuda.