Creating success in 2021!

One of my dominant thoughts at the start of 2021 has been gratitude for my health. Los Angeles county where I live has just reported over 19000 cases in a day with 193 deaths yesterday. Running has definitely been a valuable part of my health strategy over the last year and I expect that to remain the case looking ahead over the next year. There is evidence that running can encourages neurogenesis possibly as a result of the release of brain derived neurotrophic factor. A study at Cambridge University indicated that running improves memory function. We also know that running boosts levels of dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine and famously endorphins. Diet is critical for sound health as I have written before. Ensuring our body has the right amount of protein carbohydrate vitamins and minerals enables our whole body to function better including our brain. Plants rich in flavonoids such broccoli and apples; flavonoids are important antioxidants with anti-inflammatory and immune system benefits as well as providing skin protection, brain function blood sugar and blood pressure regulation. Given the threat of Covid in addition to the flu and rhino viruses it seems vital to include onion/garlic/ leek/horseradish in your diet which contain allicin well known for its ability to fight bacteria and viruses.

Goal setting. Personally I find this a difficult exercise at times but I recognize it as a vital part of preparing for success. Writing a goal down is important so is sharing your goal with as many people as possible.

Productivity. Whatever you're trying to achieve more activity will help. This truly can be a difficult area. The modern world provides us with an almost infinite number of distractions. Also there is a subconscious lack of belief in our abilities; if you fully believed in your ability to do something that could realise your potential and improve your life wouldn't you want to do it?

Collaboration. Working with someone allows us to benefit from their skillset. Also being accountable to someone for work might mean it is harder to hide in passivity and demotivation