We asked for nominations for Enthusiast of the Year and my sister nominated her husband Jeff Dunn. Removing the obvious bias, Jeff’s story jumped out to us as one that really captures what FLIP is all about – and one that everyday people, like him, would connect with. Jeff’s story fits perfectly with our theme this month – “making the FLIP”. Its been inspiring to watch Jeff’s transformation and to see how the changes he’s made show up in his day to day life. What’s really great is that you can tell the change is lasting, and Jeff is inspiring his family to do the same.
Jeff’s Interview
I flipped my lifestyle. A complete lifestyle change. I eat much healthier than I used to and I work out at least 5 days a week. I have more energy to do things with my family and I’m more motivated to accomplish anything, from simple tasks and daily workouts to big projects and 4 milers. I feel much better too.
What was the catalyst for your change/ or “flip”? (or what sparked the change).
Committing to a program that helped me to learn about what I should be eating and gave me a lot of basic guidelines to follow helped me jumpstart the weight loss. Also, having friends and family that was supportive and challenged me also helped.
What has helped make the change “stick”?
Seeing results and feeling so much better has helped the change stick.
I have lots of advice for anyone that’s going to do a lifestyle change.
First off, drink lots and lots of water. Eat healthy snacks throughout the day – I eat almonds, fruits and vegetables for snacks.
Try to set attainable goals so that you can accomplish them along the way. Each time you complete one it gives you more confidence. Big goals are sometimes harder to reach because they seem so far away. It’s ok to have a cheat day or a cheat meal, as long as you get back into the routine the next day.
Thanks Jeff for the great interview and encouragement! To round out the story here is an excerpt from his wife, Callie who nominated him:
…Since our schedules don’t allow us to run together, we challenged each other in distance and speed using the MapMyRun app. We’ve completed two 5ks and two 4-milers together this year. The highlight of our year was participating in a Thanksgiving morning Flying Feather Run, where our son, Caleff ran his first kids’ race and then joined us for the longer run in the jogging stroller. This will start a family tradition!
Fitness and healthy eating has become part of our life now. It’s a priority to work as a team to plan meals, or create opportunities for each other to work out. Jeff has so much more energy and drive. And I no longer worry about his health. Since July he has lost over 75 pounds! The mentality that Jeff exhibited this year is what FLIP is about and therefore I nominate him for the enthusiast of the year!