The STRONG Mindset Framework

Life has tested me in ways I never could have imagined. In 2012, I faced a life-threatening widow-maker heart attack, followed by a series of health challenges that would have broken many—type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, diabetic retinopathy, peripheral neuropathy, and eventually, end-stage kidney failure. I was told I shouldn’t have survived. But I did. And I knew I had a choice: let these challenges define me, or find a way to fight back.  

Through my journey of reclaiming my health—losing 120 pounds, reversing multiple chronic illnesses, and overcoming near-catastrophic setbacks—I discovered something powerful. Strength isn’t just about physical health; it’s about mindset. It’s about how we respond to adversity, take action, and keep moving forward.  

That’s why I created the STRONG Mindset Framework—a simple, practical approach that has helped me push forward, even when life felt impossible. It’s built on six key pillars that I live by every day:  

S - Self-awareness

Know yourself. Pay attention to what you think, how you feel, and how you act. Understand what makes you tick—your strengths, weaknesses, and what gets in your way. When you know yourself better, you can make choices that lead you in the right direction and help you grow.

T - Take Imperfect Action

Don’t wait for everything to be perfect before you start. Take action, even if it’s messy or not quite right. Every step forward teaches you something and gets you closer to your goal. It's better to try, learn, and adjust as you go than to stand still waiting for the “perfect” time.

R - Resilience

When life knocks you down, resilience is getting back up. Things won’t always go as planned, and that’s okay. What matters is how you bounce back, learn from it, and keep going. Every setback is a chance to grow stronger and get better.

O - Optimism  

Look for the good, even when things are tough. Optimism doesn’t mean ignoring problems; it means believing that you can find solutions and make things better. When you focus on what’s possible instead of what’s wrong, you open yourself up to new opportunities and keep moving forward.

N - Nurture

Take care of yourself. You need rest, good food, and time to recharge—physically and mentally. Surround yourself with people and places that lift you up. When you nurture your well-being, you build the energy and strength to handle whatever comes your way.

G - Growth  

Never stop learning and growing. Every experience, whether good or bad, teaches you something valuable. Growth is about stepping out of your comfort zone, trying new things, and getting better with every challenge. It’s not about being perfect, but about becoming a better version of yourself over time.  

How the STRONG Mindset Can Help You

I built this framework not just for myself, but for anyone who wants to live with resilience, purpose, and strength. Whether you’re facing health challenges, personal struggles, or simply looking for a way to push forward in life, the STRONG mindset can help you:  

  • Gain clarity on what truly matters  

  • Stop waiting for the perfect moment and take action  

  • Build resilience to bounce back from setbacks  

  • Shift your mindset to focus on possibilities, not limitations  

  • Prioritize your well-being to stay strong and energized  

  • Keep growing, learning, and evolving  

I’m living proof that transformation is possible, no matter where you’re starting from. If I can do it, so can you.  

Let’s get STRONG together. 💪✨  

Workshop coming soon!