A role model is someone others respect and look to as a good example. They try to make good decisions, put others first and often imitated by those around them. They “think before they act….not act before they think.” They are the people we want our children to be around, whether it is a teacher, coach or family member. Your Health Journal wanted to highlight some special individuals who are good role models and allow them to share their stories here. Enjoy!
1. Your name, title, and age? What do you do (or did you do) for a living?
Jessica Higgins, JD MBA, Managing Partner, Research and Innovation Institute, 34. Marketing, advisory and investments to scale promising organizations.
2. Who was the person that inspired you as a child to eat healthy and stay fit? What was their relationship to you?
My aunt was a prominent attorney and an amazing person. Becoming a female partner in a law firm was uncommon in her generation and she mentored me through college, law school and life. She was a huge advocate that a healthier body would create a healthier mind.
3. What did they do to inspire you?
She taught me the value that physical and emotional health can have on your performance. I incorporated healthy foods and daily exercise into my life from a very young age, and stay centered around that today.
4. How did their lesson change your life?
Growing up in the south, if it wasn’t for her I would likely be very unhealthy today. Southern people value gravy and salt over health. I live in the south now and still see so much misinformation about health guidelines. Look at the food pyramid, for instance!
5. Do you convey their message to kids in your life presently?
I advocate for the importance of putting your own health first before your career. If you aren’t eating, sleeping and exercising well, you’re running poorly kept machinery and expecting it to perform like it’s healthy. That simply makes no sense.
6. What would be your main message to children today to lead healthy lifestyles?
Never trust people who are trying to sell you something when it comes to making health decisions. Real foods come from the ground, not a box, and the stronger you become the more your body will stay strong over time. Health is a lifestyle, and it’s not just about making it to 90+ years old. It’s actually about feeling great and performing great every day. You only have this body – treat it like your most precious resource!
7. Do you have a web site you would like to promote….web address only?