Your secret to moving more is closer than you think

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about something I heard on an episode of Happier with Gretchen Rubin—specifically episode 534. In it, she talks about the idea of an exceptional advantage—something unique to you that gives you a step up in life, work, or happiness.

And it got me wondering…

Do I have an exceptional advantage when it comes to physical activity?

Actually, yes—I do.

And so do you.

But first, let me explain.

An exceptional advantage is like having a “leg up”. It’s not necessarily something flashy or obvious. It might even be something that doesn’t seem like an advantage at first glance. But it’s something that sets you up for success.

Here’s my story:

I was born to a mom who doesn’t swim. In fact, she had some pretty negative experiences with water. But instead of passing on her fear, she made sure her kids—my brother and I—learned how to swim. She didn’t want us to feel that fear or anxiety. So we were enrolled in swimming lessons early on. Not just one pool—multiple pools. Summer lessons, backyard lessons, community centre lessons. All of it.

What started as my mom’s fear became my strength.

Swimming became the entry point into physical activity for me. From swimming to synchronized swimming to water polo—I eventually played water polo at the national level with 10 to 12 hours of training each week. That habit of movement, of being in my body, all started because of one exceptional advantage:

​👉 My mom didn’t know how to swim.

​Funny, right? But that’s how exceptional advantages work—they’re often disguised.

Now I ask you:

What is your exceptional advantage when it comes to physical activity?

Maybe it’s that you…

• Grew up in a walkable neighbourhood.
• Had a teacher who encouraged you early on.
• Are competitive at heart and love a challenge.
• Have a physical build that helps you feel strong and capable.
• Found a workout you actually enjoy (and that’s a huge win!).
• Have a dog that needs to be walked (and that means you do too).
• Were inspired by a health scare to make movement part of your routine.
• Have friends or family who move with you and keep you accountable.

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Whatever it is--acknowledge it. Celebrate it. Let it fuel you.

This week, I encourage you to take 2 minutes and write it down. Post it on your mirror or make it the wallpaper on your phone. Don’t let your advantage fade into the background.

Name it.

Own it.

Let it carry you forward.

Because physical activity doesn’t have to be all grit and grind—sometimes it’s simply about remembering what’s already working in your favour.

Stay well and happy moving,
Lisa

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P.S. Maybe your exceptional advantage is simply that you can walk—and you enjoy it! Why not take it to the next level? The last session of Take Your Walking to the Next Level: Intro to Nordic Walking series before September starts June 11.

It’s the perfect time to get your poles on and enjoy the full-body benefits of Nordic walking during the summer months. Whether you’re new to poles or ready to refine your skills, come move with us!
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Details and registration here

​​P.P.S. If you’re curious about that podcast episode, here’s the link again: Happier with Gretchen Rubin, Episode 534