Don’t Let Obstacles Stand in Your Way

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Athlete of the Day

Carol Ann Sonier from New Brunswick reached 1000KM in less than 5 months!

Even when you don’t have a friend physically walking beside you, remember those who always walk with you, in spirit and in your heart.

How has this challenge changed your life?

Life is full of obstacles! Sometimes I am surrounded by mountains of obstacles; some have bigger slopes than others. I may find myself climbing a mountain to reach my goal and get discouraged when the slope is just too big. But, I don’t stop! “The Climb” is about striving to reach the top of that mountain, no matter what!

I find it easy to dedicate my time to others, someone in need, my friends, my family members, my co-workers….the list goes on! The hard part is taking time to care for my own needs, my need for health, my need for strength, my need for success, my need for growth! This challenge allowed me to take time for myself. I was able to maintain focus, value and take a closer look at who I am. HOW BEAUTIFUL IT IS WHEN WE TAKE A GOOD LOOK AT OUR LIVES AND TAKE THE OPPORTUNITY TO GROW EVERY SINGLE DAY!

How often do you walk?

I walk EVERY DAY! …..SOMETIMES MORE THAN ONCE A DAY!

How do you stay motivated and find the time to walk, jog or run?

I love being outdoors. Keeping my focus on the outdoors has always been easy for me. I love to walk! I sometimes walk alone, which allows for My Time to reflect, and I sometimes walk with friends, which allows for time to grow.

I have friends who love to walk with me; which brings me new adventures and challenges. Walks are great for friendship, therapy and problem-solving. Walking helps me to release stress and reset my mind.

When I have a moment of … “I don’t think I will do that today, ” I quickly remember how blessed I am to be able to have the choice to walk and to move independently. I WALK FOR THOSE WHO CAN’T! I walk for my mom and I walk for my husband, who is also my best friend.

My Mom loved to walk until she was diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). She lost her battle in 2002. She always said, “Walk a mile for me!” When I don’t feel like walking I hear those beautiful words and I move. My husband has COPD and even the easiest of movements for him has been difficult. They are my true inspiration!

I also have an amazing circle of friends and family who have been there for me, walked with me, shared their stories of strength and hope. The people that surround me inspire me to stay strong and keep moving forward. Even when I don’t have a friend physically walking beside me, I remember those who always walk with me, in spirit and in my heart.

What advice would you give someone who is struggling to reach their goals?

EVERY STEP IS A STEP, NOT JUST A STEP, BUT A BIG STEP. FIND YOUR FOCUS. WRITE IT DOWN. LOOK AT IT DAILY TO REMIND YOU OF YOUR WHY. TAKE THE STEPS YOU NEED TO TAKE FOR A HEALTHIER YOU!!! YOU CAN DO ANYTHING YOU SET YOUR MIND TO.

Also, take time to walk by yourself and discover your true strengths. You are amazing! Take one step today and the rest will follow. Climb that mountain. It’s a beautiful feeling!

Taking photos along your journey is rewarding as well. Find your passion and don’t let ANYTHING stop you from reaching your goals.

Carol Ann is well on her way to reaching 2500KM in 2021! You can follow her progress here.

Great work Carol Ann and thank you for sharing a part of your story with us!