A woman wanted to make a change in her life, so she decided to smile more often each day. Some days, it seemed that the smile had to be dredged up from a great depth, but she persisted and, in just 30 days, her stress decreased. Another upside: more people were drawn to her and her community of friends grew. Her health problems lessened and she felt happier. Just a smile a day; such a small change, but what a difference her smile made. The best part about a smile - when you give one away, you are almost sure to get one back.

What could you do differently each day? How about walking each day for five minutes or for five minutes more? A number of years ago, my husband and I had financial difficulties. We didn’t sit around and feel sorry for ourselves or vegetate in front of the TV; instead, we walked. Victoria is blessed with many beautiful places to walk. At the end of the walk, rather than going for lunch - not an option - we sat and ate an apple. Two bonuses came from this time. We talked while we walked and solved a great many of what previously seemed to be huge challenges. And I lost inches around my waist and hips.

I read an article by Philip Humbert with this quote, “In the long run, your daily systems and habits, your behaviours are far better predictors of success than a list of goals. It’s what you do. Everyday. Over and over. Until.”

So, whether it is more friends, less stress or a more flexible body - what are *you* going to do for the next 30 days that will make a great difference in your life?

I plan to travel to Europe in September and walk the cobblestone streets. I want to make sure there’s less of me and what there is, is more fit. Let me know what you would like to do. Until then, keep smiling.

APRIL 2011 SENIOR LIVING MAGAZINE VANCOUVER ISLAND