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It is time to be bold

Dr. Steven Heidinger asks readers to consider making a bold move
Wellness_DrStevenHeidinger
Wellness Column by Dr. Steven Heidinger

“If you don’t make bold moves, the world doesn’t move forward.” - Richard Branson

Beginning October 1, 2019, Saskatchewan’s minimum wage will increase by a dime. For a 40-hour work-week (and I doubt most minimum wage earners have full time employment), this equates to a $4 raise each week. For those that work part-time, will a few extra dollars per month really make an impact on improving one’s quality of life? I think not.

In this week’s installment of the Wellness Column, I look not to argue what the minimum wage should be, however I use it as an example to emphasize the need to make bold moves, for real change to occur.

We are more than three months into the new year. Soon, that three-month membership many have signed up for will expire and I suspect the majority of resolution makers have failed to reach their goals. For those of you not happy with your results, can you honestly say that you made “bold moves”?

“I try to eat healthier.”

“I try to get to the gym more.”

“I’m drinking less pop.”

“I’m getting to bed a little bit sooner.”

Are these really bold moves?

Drinking less pop is going to have the same impact as a 10 cent raise in Saskatchewan!

How about drinking NO POP? How about exercising daily, instead of once or twice a week? How about getting a full eight hours of sleep each night? Now these are bold moves that will lead to positive health outcomes.

While bold moves are often unpopular, it’s the bold moves that will move the world forward.

We elect leaders to do what is best for us. We look to them to sometimes make the bold, yet unpopular moves that can make real difference.  

Sugary cereals should not be cheaper than the healthier ones. Green leafy vegetables should not be more expensive than pasta. Potato chips and candy should not be a dime a dozen while fresh fruit rots on the shelf because it’s too expensive for those on fixed incomes to afford. Maybe sin taxes on junk food should be significant enough to subsidize groceries that add value to our health.  

Now that would be a bold move.
 
Obesity, diabetes, cancer and heart disease are winning because bold moves are not being made.  

What is your next move?

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