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If You’ve Ever Been Told ‘That’s Just How It Is’—Read This

by Amy Schons, Jenn Schoenbart
Mar 02, 2025
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Have you ever been told that something just can’t be done? That the way things are is the way they have to be?

Maybe you’ve heard:
đŸš« “It’s really hard, that's business.”
đŸš« “No one wants to work anymore.”
đŸš« “It requires hustle—there’s no other way.”
đŸš« “You have to choose between success and having a life.”
đŸš« “That’s just how this industry works—take it or leave it.”

These aren’t just words. They become beliefs. And those beliefs shape the way we work, lead, and live.

But here’s the thing—I don’t buy it.

I’ve Never Subscribed to ‘That’s Just How It Is’

Maybe it’s because I learned early on that belief and action can change everything.

Growing up, my family faced tough moments—my dad’s heart attack, my brother’s motorcycle accident, a fire. And every time, I saw firsthand that pushing through challenges isn’t about accepting what is—it’s about asking what else is possible?

So when I entered the working world, I refused to accept:
đŸ”„ “You can’t give restaurant employees weekends off, ever.” → I found a way to make it work.
đŸ”„ “You can’t be in hospitality and have a life.” → I found a company that aligned with my values.
đŸ”„ “You’re just going to college to get an MRS degree.” (Thanks, Grandma) → I became a division president.

Then came COVID. My division was declared dead. People said it wasn’t coming back.

But we kept believing—and we built it back.

I also heard: “Wellness doesn’t matter.”
Except when we made it a differentiator, it changed the game.

Even a recruiter once tried to deter me from taking a role in favor of a very big company, I knew was not where I needed to be:

đŸš« â€œYou’ll be cooking and non-stop covering people as a regional manager. That’s just how smaller companies work.”

Except it wasn’t.

I wasn’t doing either—I was building. I was leading instead of reacting.

What’s Holding You Back?

If I’ve learned anything, it’s that it’s not circumstances that hold us back—it’s our beliefs about those circumstances.

We get stuck when we accept that things have to be a certain way.
When we believe that success requires suffering.
When we think our only choice is to work harder instead of smarter.

But what if there’s a better way?

Your Challenge This Week

Think about the beliefs that are shaping how you lead and work.

💡 What’s one belief you’ve been told about leadership or success that you’re ready to challenge?  

Hit reply and let me know!

Because modern leadership isn’t about doing what’s always been done, t’s about building something that actually works.  For you and your life.

Let’s create that together.

 

⭐Are you ready to step into modern leadership?  We can help you get there.  Join the Collective, hit reply and we'll share more!

The Modwellship Collective Waitlist

 

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Nutrition Month Kickoff: The Basics of Balanced Nutrition

March is National Nutrition Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. This month-long celebration, initiated by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, emphasizes the connection between healthy eating and overall well-being. It serves as a great reminder for everyone to focus on the vital role nutrition plays in our daily lives and how it influences our long-term health.

What is Balanced Nutrition?

Balanced nutrition is the practice of eating a variety of foods from all the essential food groups to provide your body with the necessary nutrients it needs to function optimally. A well-balanced diet includes foods from protein sources, grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy, and fats. Each group provides different nutrients that support various functions in your body, from energy production to immune system support.

  • Proteins (such as lean meats, fish, beans, and nuts) are essential for muscle growth and repair.
  • Grains (like whole grains, rice, and pasta) provide the energy needed for daily activities.
  • Fruits and Vegetables offer vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which support digestion and overall health.
  • Dairy (such as milk, yogurt, and cheese) is rich in calcium and vitamin D, which promote bone health.
  • Fats (especially healthy fats from sources like avocado, olive oil, and nuts) are crucial for brain function and absorbing certain vitamins.

By combining foods from all these groups, you're providing your body with a wide range of nutrients, helping you maintain energy, prevent chronic diseases, and enhance your quality of life.

The MyPlate model, created by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), is a simple visual tool to help you create balanced meals. Think of your plate as a guide to making healthier food choices.

Here's how it breaks down:

  • Half of the Plate - Fruits and Vegetables: Fill half of your plate with fruits and vegetables. These foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Aim to "eat the rainbow" by including a variety of colorful produce to get a wide range of nutrients.

  • Quarter of the Plate - Protein: One-quarter of your plate should be filled with protein sources such as lean meat, poultry, fish, beans, or plant-based proteins like tofu. Protein is important for maintaining muscle mass and keeping your immune system strong.

  • Quarter of the Plate - Grains: The other quarter should consist of grains. When possible, choose whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat, as they provide more fiber and nutrients than refined grains.

  • A Side of Dairy: Include a serving of dairy (or a dairy alternative) to support bone health, such as a glass of milk, a slice of cheese, or a bowl of yogurt. If you're lactose intolerant or prefer non-dairy options, look for alternatives like almond milk, soy milk, or fortified plant-based yogurts.

Actionable Challenge

This week, try planning one balanced meal using the MyPlate model. Aim to fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables, one-quarter with lean protein, and one-quarter with whole grains, alongside a side of dairy or a dairy alternative. Keep in mind the portion control tips and focus on variety and balance.

Take a moment to reflect on how this meal makes you feel. Is it filling? Energizing? Satisfying? This small step will help you create healthier habits and begin a journey toward improved nutrition throughout the month.


MyPlate Approved Recipe: Grilled Chicken and Veggie Bowl

This recipe is packed with protein, whole grains, and colorful vegetables, making it a great option for a balanced meal. It's easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for meal prep!

Ingredients (for the Chicken):

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Ingredients (for the Veggies):

  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients (for the Grains):

  • 1 cup cooked quinoa (or brown rice, if preferred)

Ingredients (for the Yogurt Sauce):

  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tbsp lime juice (optional)

Method:

  1. Prepare the Chicken:

    • Preheat your grill or a grill pan to medium-high heat.
    • In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Rub this mixture onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
    • Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Once done, remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables:

    • In a large bowl, toss the zucchini, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
    • Grill the vegetables on the same grill or in a grill pan for 4-5 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred. Remove from heat.
  3. Assemble the Bowl:

    • In a serving bowl, layer the cooked grain as your base.
    • Top with the grilled vegetables and sliced chicken breast.
  4. Topping and Garnish:

    • In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with lime juice (if using) and cilantro (optional).
    • Drizzle the yogurt topping over the chicken and veggies.
  5. Serve and Enjoy:

    • Serve your Grilled Chicken and Veggie Bowl immediately, or store in an airtight container for meal prep throughout the week!

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