Love & Care For The One and Only You – Interview with Author Michelle Medlock Adams

As you shrug off the last vestiges of 2015 and walk into a new year, many of you are asking yourselves what lies ahead and how you should approach the new challenges. Sometimes the first thing to do is simply start where you are—with you. Michelle Medlock Adams wants to help you begin that journey through her book, Love & Care For The One and Only You by providing inspiration that will help you face your tomorrows with health, hope, and confidence.

Michelle is an award-winning journalist, speaker, and best-selling author, earning top honors from the Associated Press, the Society of Professional Journalists and the Hoosier State Press Association. Author of over 70 books, her book, Divine Stories of the Yahweh Sisterhood, was named a Family Christian Bookstores Premiere Pick in 2006. I’m so pleased to be able to start off 2016 by interviewing someone whom I believe can give you a positive and practical focus for launching into the New Year.

Linda: If you had to summarize what your book, Love & Care For The One and Only You is about in just a few words, what phrase would you use?

Michelle: Striving for progress, not perfection.

Linda: Sounds like something we can all happily relate to. Elaborate on that, would you?

Michelle: Of course. I believe when we accept the fact that we’ll never be perfect, it’s so freeing. It’s true, we will probably never have that perfect supermodel physique, but we are perfectly loved by Almighty God! Once I realized that truth and began striving for progress, not perfection, I could celebrate the little goals I was achieving on this health and fitness journey. That brought joy to the journey, and that changed everything for me. I believe it will change everything for those who read my book, as well.

Linda: What prompted you to write Love & Care For The One and Only You?

Michelle: Well, when I was in journalism school at Indiana University, I was always taught to “Write what you know,” and I know the struggle is real when it comes to achieving a healthy life in all areas—spirit, mind and body. But, I also know the secret lies in God. Exercise gimmicks and gadgets, diet pills and potions, and fad diet programs will all fade away, but God’s Word remains forever true and jam-packed with wisdom. I wanted to communicate those truths in a way that was non-judgmental and encouraging, and that’s why I felt compelled to write this book.

Linda: How is your book different from other health and fitness books in the marketplace?

Michelle: This is not your typical “go for the burn” “be more disciplined” “work out more, eat less” fitness book. This is an inspirational devotional that encourages women to become the best version of themselves; to strive for progress, not perfection; and to live a happier, healthier life. I want women who read my book to realize that they are precious to God and that their lives matter, which is why they need to become healthy and whole to fulfill their individual callings. Whether a stay-at-home mom or a businesswoman, we can accomplish more and be happier if we’re spiritually, emotionally and physically healthy. Women shouldn’t just go through the motions of life exhausted, but rather enjoy every day life empowered!

Linda: I so agree with you there! I know you’ve written more than 70 books—many specifically for women—is your latest book similar to any of your other devotionals for women?

Michelle: Love & Care For The One and Only You is probably most similar to my 60-day devotionals (Barbour) called, Secrets of Happiness and Secrets of Beauty. However, Love & Care For The One And Only You is my first inspirational title about becoming spiritually, emotionally and physically fit.

Linda: How did your personal background/experiences prepare you for the writing of this book?

Michelle: My personal background plays into the writing of this book because I have always been and am currently a certified fitness instructor. I love helping women get healthy! And, I love encouraging others—whether that’s through personal training, speaking at churches and women’s events, or through the words in my books. Plus, I am in the trenches with these readers! I’ve battled self-esteem issues much of my life, and I know how the devil works, whispering in our ears that we’re not good enough. But I also know that through His Word, we can be confident that we are more than enough! That we are conquerors! That we are the head and not the tail! That we are the apple of God’s eye! That we are empowered and able to do all things through Christ Jesus! And, that our Heavenly Father treasures us!

Linda: Who is this book for, specifically?

Michelle: Love & Care For The One And Only You is written for women who are discouraged, disgusted and disillusioned by the supermodel fitness expert offering weight-loss and exercise advice. Like me, they have probably tried and failed at numerous “fool-proof diet plans” and started and quit more exercise programs than they care to admit. They are busy with endless responsibilities. They want to eat better and live a healthier life but many have given up.

My book is for successful business women, moms, grandmoms and women who have been subjected to fitness programs and diet plans that required so much and gave back so little. Unrealistic expectations, ridiculous and restrictive rules, and unattainable goals may have left many of my readers without hope, without vision, and without a workable solution. My message is one of hope, vision and workable solutions, equipping them with the power tools it takes to become healthier spiritually, emotionally and physically. I know these readers because I am one of these readers. I’ve lived it. I’ve learned it, and now I’m sharing it with the other women who desperately need faith, hope and fitness.

Linda: How does caring for yourself contribute to resolving relationship issues?

Michelle: You know, I believe that when we get healthy—spiritually, physically and mentally—we become better in every area including our relationships. Personally speaking, when I feel better about myself, I am more apt to try new things and be more engaging and adventurous in life. I am just happier and more fun to be around, which in turn, makes my spouse happier. In addition, getting healthy can be a great way to bond with your significant other. I speak about that in my book, actually. My hubby of 24 years, Jeff, and I love to go on walks together and hit the gym as a couple. We also love to cook together, trying out new healthy recipes side by side. He’s actually a better cook than I am, but don’t tell him I admitted that, haha. (There are healthy recipes included in my book!) We achieve healthy goals together, and we celebrate those achievements together which makes them even more meaningful.

Linda: Are there times when caring for yourself can actually have a detrimental effect on relationships? Can we overdo the idea of caring for self?

Michelle: I think we can overdo anything in life and it can become detrimental. If we become too self-absorbed, then that can definitely be a negative in our relationships with God and with our families. It’s really all about your mindset. If you’re simply working out and eating healthy so that you can fit into your skinny jeans and feel hot, then your mindset isn’t where it should be. Fitting into your skinny jeans and feeling good about yourself are certainly benefits from making healthy choices but they shouldn’t be your sole motivation. Caring for ourselves is vital so that we can better care for (and enjoy) those precious people in our lives, as well as fulfill our destinies here on earth. If we are too tired or feel too awful in our bodies, then we won’t have the energy to fulfill all that God has for us to do in this lifetime.

Linda: Any parting words?

Michelle: I so wish I could physically be there to go on this health and wellness journey with each of the ladies who picks up my book, but it’s the next best thing. I’ve prayed over this book, and I so believe it’s from the heart of God. Lastly, if you’ve talked yourself into thinking that the status quo is as good as it gets, I’m here to tell you that is not the case. You can be happier, stronger and healthier in 2016, and you can enjoy the journey! I just want my sisters out there to go into this New Year excited and encouraged.

Linda: Where can readers find out more about you and your books?

Michelle: You can learn more on my website at www.michellemedlockadams.com