This past January, millions of Americans made a 'resolution' to get fit or be healthier. Likewise, millions went to the gym for a week, ate a few salads, then returned to their old habits. How many actually gave it a shot, stuck it out, and are actually working towards their goals? Too many people are quick to give up without realizing their real potential. Others don't realize how absolutely vital it is to start getting healthy while they still have the ability to — your body will thank you for your proactive choice years down the road.

I, like many others, am in an extremely complicated relationship with food. We all need it to survive, but seeing as every holiday in America is centered around gargantuan feasts, we have been surviving to eat food. Choosing to cut out meat, dairy, processed foods, fast food, among thousands of other items in the average American diet for the sake of being healthier is difficult when you're constantly on the go and don't really have time to make a meal. Sure, there are plenty of online, 'delivered to your door' meal service plans available, but that's a huge added expense for a college student, new grad, or really anyone figuring out how to take on the world on their own.

I say it's time we start really thinking about how we treat our bodies. We only get one life to live, and we all want it to be a long and healthful one. Show yourself some real love by giving your body the nutrition it needs. Take time out of your day to try new foods and cook hearty meals; you might find out that you actually love brussels sprouts or realize you don't really care for red meat. Respect your body and what you put in it, and what's best, you'll learn new skills. Everyone loves a great cook!

It's a well-known fact the average American doesn't get enough exercise whether it's the lack of time, motivation, or whatever the case might be. Many don't understand how self-reflexive and empowering getting a good workout in your day is. There is something to be said about how powerful one can feel after just an hour at the gym. Whether you just went on a run and finally got your mile time down, or deadlift 20 lbs more than you could the other day, you start seeing and appreciating your accomplishments. Try it; going to the gym regularly can be one of the most liberating things you can do for yourself after a long or stressful day at work.

With all things, life gets in the way of taking care of ourselves. We need to learn to start putting our mental, social, and physical well-being first in order to live a healthier, happier life.