Hello fellow Spirits

[Gotchaman]

I'm originally from Japan, have been in the U.S. for 12 years. Currently living in Richmond, Virginia. I have been a reader of Steve's blog for almost a year. When I found his blog I was depressed from a broken relationship. My self-esteem was extremely low at that time and I was desperate for a cure.

Starting with small things such as quitting smoking cigarettes, which IS hard for many people, I found his 30-day trial technique to be extremely effective. At the same time I started exercising on a regular basis. I used his 2-minutes-run-and-then-1-minute-walk thing since I couldn't even run for 5 minutes continuously. Running was extremely effective to decrease the urge to smoke. While running helped me quitting smoking big time, it did take discipline in the beginning but then it naturally became my new habit as I started enjoying the improvement on my running performance. Gradually I was getting used to running longer without taking breaks. Now I run 4-5 times a week, 5-6 miles at a time. On the days I don't run, I do weight training. I lost 20 pounds of fat and gained a ripped body.

I'm 34 years old and I'm in the best shape in my life. This weekend I'm participating in my first race(10K). I couldn't have even imagined a couple of years ago that I would become such a healthy person like I am now. Oh I became a vegetarian also. Not only am I physically healthy, but I am also mentally sharper than ever before. I sleep so much better every night, get up early and meditate for inner peace. I read some of the self-help books that are listed on the blog and they were also huge help, such as 7 habits, Power of Intention, Man's search for meaning, etc.

Thank you Steve. You made enormous positive impact on me in the past 12 months. You opened the door for me to the wonderful world of personal development. I learned the importance of giving. My next step is joining a volunteer organization to help less fortunate people.

And this is the first time I'm posting something on this forum. Hello fellas!

[Dan.Linehan]

What an inspiring story Gotchaman, congratulations!

Quitting smoking was a huge catalyst for me as well, I had been smoking (and knew I was addicted) since I was 14.

Once I quit I realized my own power to change my life, went vegan, upgraded my job, dropped a couple long-term, difficult relationships, and overall, life has been much, much better.

Thanks for sharing, welcome to the forums! And great luck in the marathon!!

[Gotchaman]

Hi Dan,
Thank you for the kind words! I am glad to know that you also quit smoking and improved the quality of your life. I agree, quitting smoking is such a confidence booster.

Have a wonderful day!