Take a look at the following list of reasons to exercise and circle those you consider to be the ‘right’ ones.

1. Because it’s good for me.
2. Because I enjoy it.
3. Because I’m overweight.
4. Because it lifts my spirits and helps me feel balanced emotionally.
5. Because I look awful in shorts.
6. Because it makes me feel proud of my body.
7. Because most people I know who have their act together do.
8. Because it makes me stronger - better able to cope with stress.
9. Because my friends/lover do.
10. Because it brings me a sense of confidence and self-esteem.

If you circled most of the even numbers then you have begun to understand the concept of living from the core. The odd-numbered reasons are based upon external demands or expectations. They imply an ‘I should’, i.e. in order to look right in a short skirt or because I have been told that it is healthy or because my friends exercise - I should. The even-numbered reasons, however, all directly relate to core values such as choosing to be whole, to be free and to trust in life. These strong reasons carry core energy and automatic willpower.