Success Story: Heather crafted a lifestyle rooted in self-kindness

Jun 27

I reached out to Merritt because I was ready for a sustainable, healthy lifestyle—one that worked not just for me, but for my husband too. I was tired of diets that had me cooking two separate meals or nibbling on lettuce while he enjoyed something satisfying. More than anything, I was starting to realize that dieting just didn’t work for me anymore. I didn’t want another quick fix—I wanted lasting change and a lifestyle that felt good and doable every day.

During my time working with Merritt, I learned how to be both honest and kind to myself and my body. I created a personal framework I called my “in generals”—a list that outlined what I wanted my lifestyle to look like most of the time. This helped me define what health means for me while giving me the flexibility I need to live a happy and fulfilling life without feeling restricted or guilty.

One of the biggest breakthroughs was letting go of the all-or-nothing mentality. It’s still something I work on, but I’ve made real progress. Now, if I have something off-plan, it doesn’t spiral into a three-day snack fest. That shift in control has been life-changing. I’ve learned to see treats for what they are—treats—not slip-ups or failures, just enjoyable moments that are part of a balanced life.

Today, I feel more confident making health decisions without second-guessing myself or needing outside validation. I feel more grounded—especially in social settings—where I now make choices based on what’s right for me, without feeling like I need to explain or justify them.

Breaking free from the all-or-nothing mindset has created space for real, sustainable change. I feel rooted in who I am and what is right for me. My relationship with food has shifted in a powerful way, and for the first time in a long time, I feel comfortable in my own skin.

I want other women who are navigating aging and health to know that they aren’t alone. We’re all walking through these stages, and your past relationship with food or exercise does not define your future. Trust yourself. Listen to your body. And above all, treat yourself like the queen you are.