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Who am I?

My name is Tawni Gomes. I was born and raised in Southern California. (Ventura County), but I now live a suburb of Sacramento, CA. I've lost over 100 pounds since September of 1996, when I first read Make the Connection. I am grateful to be living a healthy and fit life. In the years since that fateful month, however, I've also done something else-I've completed over twenty marathons (that's 26 miles and 385 yards). My first was the Honolulu Marathon on December 14, 1997, which I walked as part of the Arthritis Joints in Motion (a group that raises money for arthritis research through athletic endeavors). I chose to do my first marathon as part of the Arthritis Team because in December 1996, while I was out for my morning walk (my first step in "making the connection"), I was struck by a car and had to spend several months in a wheelchair. During that time, I developed arthritis. I ran my second marathon with a team of 20 CONNECTORS in Portland, Oregon, on October 4, 1998 - a fabulous endurance test/talk fest that Oprah featured on her show two weeks later, on October 15th, 1998.

How do I stay motivated to exercise and eat healthy?

In the beginning, the most difficult step was making the time to exercise. As a former sales manager for a major corporation, I had led a very hectic life...without exercise. I figured, however, if Oprah could get up at 5 in the morning to run, so could I. And I did. That was my first step. I got up early enough to get in a 15 min. walk before anything else that day. In fact, I still start my day with exercise. Once I finally committed to "making the connection", motivation hasn't been a problem. I follow the 10 steps like I would follow a recipe to bake a cake. After eight years now, I "make the connection" without thinking. It's simply "who I am and what I do", to quote a friend. I've found if I set daily, weekly and yearly goals, I stay on track. Motivation comes from "doing it" It's not going to arrive via Federal Express. I realize now that my success in improving my life hinges on how I think of myself and my capabilities. Before I read Make the Connection, I always set out to lose weight tentatively, with a defeatist attitude. Then I invariably wondered why I'd gain all the weight back or not stick with my piddley little plan in the first place. Now I know I can change my body-and my life. So I think BIG. I set BIG goals. And I make sure I achieve them. I am STILL on the journey. THERE IS NO FINISH LINE.

How many calories a day do I eat?

I don't count calories. I simply follow the 10 steps in Make the Connection. For instance, I eat a low-fat, balanced diet every day (Step #4). I eat three meals and two 150-calorie snacks every day (Step #5). And I have at least two servings of fruit and three servings of vegetables every day (Step #9). Plus, I exercise. Every day, 5-6 days a week (Step #1). One trick: I use a software program called LIFEFORM to log in all my meals and exercise sessions. I have found it keeps me accountable for everthing I eat. It taught me how fast calories can add up and helps me to track my goals/achievements. Here's the link for a free demo of the software program: www.lifeform.com I am not paid to endorse or recommend this product. I am simply a grateful fan of this product.

What type of exercise do I do and how often?

I run 3 to 5 miles every other day (although sometimes I run longer on the weekends). I use the recumbent bike or the StepMill equipment at the gym on the days that I don't run. I also lift weights two to three times a week.

What is My Biggest Secret to Success?

Planning! I am always prepping and planning for my success. I pack my lunch the night before. I load my gym bag in my car the night before. I make sure I shop for healthy foods and keep my house clean of foods that do not honor my commitment to my health.

Can You Help Me Be Successful?

YES! I offer e-coaching services to help members achieve their goals.

Email me for a full detail of services and packages available to help you reach your goals!

www.connectingconnectors.com

 

Copyright © 1999-2007 Tawni Gomes - All Rights Reserved
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