I was introduced to the Thrive Challenge through previous Grand Champion, Donny Brashears. I got really inspired by watching his success and I knew that it could make a huge difference to me too. I focused on nutrition first. I cut out sugar and processed snack foods. I increased the amount of fruits, veggies and lean proteins I ate throughout the week. I did Whole 30. Once I saw some success with my Better Food Choices, I was encouraged to be more active. Now I set a daily step count and give myself a Better Choice point for every set of 5,000 steps I take. It’s kept me connected with my brother and we compete to see who can be more active each day. I am always getting after him to exercise more. With Covid going on, I’ve also been focused on doing physically demanding home improvement tasks to stay active and better my home. I built a deck during lockdown and rebuilt the flower beds in our front yard. I also remodeled our bathroom.
- From not eating out, I was able to pay off my truck and save $15,000.
- Since starting the Thrive Challenge, I’ve lost weight.
- I have been focused on being more active and getting in 10,000 steps a day.
I have always been focused on my finances, but this year I have been able to pay off my truck, complete several home improvement projects, pay off some credit card debt, and save over $15,000! I can now plan for a future where I am financially independent. There have been so many positive changes, but the biggest realization is how unhealthy my eating habits were and how far I have come. I know now that I have the power to make much Better Choices, and I can only look forward to making more along the way. The Thrive Challenge gave me accountability, and that gives me peace.
—Marty Perry, Distribution Center #7078; Ellwood, IL; National Thrive Challenge $5K Winner
Through the Thrive Challenge, our community is making Better Choices, seeing big results, and winning big.