“I wish I started sooner!” It’s something we often say to ourselves, but the truth is, the best time to start is always now. Last Friday morning, I had one of those moments. I finally began my morning walks on the golf course, something I’d been meaning to do since I arrived in Saint Lucia three weeks ago.

Three years ago, I walked every morning, all 18 holes with my friend Gary, followed by a gym session, and we were super fit as a result. While I’ve taken some evening strolls since my arrival and my beach workouts on Sundays with Dani, I officially kicked off my morning walk routine last Friday. Today, I set out a 6:30 am, just as the sun had risen. The air was cool, the golfers sparse, and I stuck to the marked paths, enjoying a wonderful hour-and-a-half workout across the hilly terrain. Cutting ten minutes off my time the last three days. Initially, I wasn’t enthusiastic about the golf course – I used to prefer beach walks – but I’ve come to appreciate it as a serene, nature-filled haven. It’s like a hidden reserve, complete with lakes adorned with white and deep pink waterlilies, the elegant herons, egrets, and moorhens light footedly striding across the waterlilies. Palm trees sway nearby, wild patches of grass host grazing horses, and after a rainfall, the fungi sprout abundantly, some even resembling stray golf balls. It’s a captivating scene that makes every walk a delight.

I’ve committed to this routine whenever I have no other fitness plans. Since last Friday, January 17th, I’ve walked consistently – Friday, Saturday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and today Thursday – and paired some days with a gym session and an essential stretch in the hot tub, reducing any muscle stiffness. Even on windy mornings, I’ve stuck to my plan, dressing appropriately and showing up without question. It’s already yielding results, and I feel fantastic.

Starting something new, whether it’s a fitness regime or a healthy eating plan, often feels daunting. The thought, “I wish I’d started sooner,” can become a mental hurdle that prevents us from taking the first step. These thoughts are normal, but they’re just that—thoughts. Let them come and go and congratulate yourself for moving past them. Don’t let regrets hold you back. Today is always the best day to begin.

Make now your moment to start and keep it going. Because now truly is all you have.