“Just find an excuse to win.” This quote, spoken in the opening scenes of the recently released filmLone Survivor, where Navy Seals are being put through rigorous training, will make almost everybody realize they could be in better shape; and that Seals have mental toughness well beyond most people.

Think about the words though. People have plenty of excuses for why they can't do certain things, especially when it comes to exercise and eating healthy. Family needs, time, energy, and money, amongst other things, are all common excuses for putting our wellbeing secondary. Where are the excuses to put other things aside for a little bit and actually take care of ourselves?

From a Navy Seal's perspective our excuses are petty. They endure grueling sessions to keep themselves in the best shape possible. They have to win. There isn't another option.

Now, this does not mean you need to push your physical and mental boundaries to the extreme. However, you do need to be pushed. Just like Navy Seals, you have to win. You don't have another option. Not exercising and eating healthy has consequences. You may not notice them immediately, but down the road you will.

Injuries, chronic illnesses, stress, poor job performance, depression, lethargy, and being a poor example for children are all effects of not taking care of one's health.

People make plenty of time to watch TV, take their children to movies, go out to dinner, work extra hours, stalk on Facebook, and do many, many other non-physical activities.

If you have time for any of these things, you most likely have time to exercise and cook a few healthy meals during the week. Find an excuse to take a walk or shoot hoops with your kids, rather than sit on the couch or at the computer. Watch your half hour or hour show at the gym while you are on a treadmill or elliptical trainer. You get the idea.

So, is your health worth it? Is it worth making an excuse to push the other things aside? Do you want to “win” by leading a healthy life filled with experiences? If yes, find your excuse to win. You will thank yourself later.

This article has been edited from it's original. It was shared and edited with the aurthor's written permission. The article was originally shared on examiner.com.