When the clock struck midnight on Dec. 31: 2022 officially began, marking a new beginning for all. If you’re looking for a New Year’s resolution, you might start a new fitness routine, revisit your focus on mental wellbeing, or perhaps adjust your eating habits.
For Erin Schuelke, coordinator of training at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, her New Year’s resolution is to run a total of 22 5K races in 2022. Committing to and maintaining a healthy lifestyle started for Erin in 2018, and with Disney Be Well, it was easier for her to work toward it and stay motivated. Disney Be Well is an exclusive benefit for Disney cast members that provides them the tools and resources necessary to get active, eat healthy and find balance in their lives.
This part of Erin’s wellness story started at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, where she received resources and encouragement to eat healthy, be well and live a balanced life at Safety & Wellness committee meetings where they featured Be Well updates and resources. She also joined the resort’s walking challenge. While it was a friendly competition between colleagues, Erin used it to truly kick-start her wellness journey.
Starting small, Erin strove to hit 10,000 steps a day. After continuously hitting her goal, she upped it to 15,000 and eventually to 20,000, helping her team win the competition. What Erin enjoyed most about the friendly challenge was the support of her teammates and fellow cast members, something she sees at all Disney Be Well events.
“Disney Be Well events are extremely motivating and inspired me to start my own wellness journey,” Erin said. “It’s a great way to have fun, continue my wellness journey and meet others who are on similar paths.”
Setting goals is great but staying on track isn’t always easy. However, when we achieve them, there’s an undeniable feeling of pride. Here are a few tips you can use to keep yourself on track:
- Make sure your resolutions are within reach;
- Plan ahead and outline your strategy; and
- Document progress, but don’t be discouraged if you miss a milestone.
Erin shares her biggest tip: “You’re doing this for yourself and no one else. Committing to your health and well-being is a major accomplishment on its own,” she said. Four years later, Erin is still attending Be Well events and striving to maintain a healthy lifestyle. While your New Year’s resolutions for 2022 may not include completing 22 races like Erin, the most important thing is to set a goal and be proud of yourself for taking the first step toward a healthier you!
