A revolution by definition is a radical and pervasive change in society and the social structure.  A wellness revolution is actions taken on by individuals to actively promote health in their lives and encourage healthy lifestyle changes in the people around them.

I have a personal passion around wellness and ownership of healthy behaviors.  I challenge myself and others everyday to shift from a life of treatment (wait until you’re sick to go to the doctor) to a life of prevention and health promotion (get your flu shot, be physically active, eat healthier).

A wellness mindset can start with one person.  But we’ve found that when powered by the support and guidance of organizations, associations, and networks, a wellness revolution can be possible.

This week, I have the honor of presenting at the World Congress Rewarding Healthy Behaviors Conference. In my session, I will be sharing the research framework, methodologies, and the remarkable health outcomes achieved by participants in a study we conducted surrounding ways to make an impact on wellness behavior.

I believe as individuals and a nation, we can curb the statistics leading us down an unhealthy and unsustainable path:

• 3^rd largest expense for companies is benefits
•  $4.6 billion in healthcare costs by 2020
• 19.8% of GDP is healthcare
•  $125 billion in national absenteeism costs annually
• 75% of healthcare claims are attributable to lifestyle, 80% of these claims are preventable

I invite anyone who is interested to attend my session.  I am excited to share ideas and thoughts about encouraging healthy behavior change.  Changing your lifestyle is certainly a difficult task.  We are faced with old habits, lack of time, lack of motivation, and have created environments that promote sitting in front of computers, working late hours, and eating unhealthy, quick meals.

We as individuals need to own the change, support each other, and create a culture and society that reflects the importance of health and wellbeing.  I am confident that by owning the responsibility for our health and wellness we can reduce morbidity, promote more peace, and inspire a revolution that will create better lives and better business for years and centuries to come.

Are you ready for a revolution?  Join me.