Linda Bacon, PhD, is a researcher on the inside track of weight regulation science – a scientist whose three graduate degrees, research, and clinical expertise uniquely prepare her to understand and translate the physiological, psychological, and socio-cultural underpinnings of weight control. An internationally recognized authority on weight and health, Dr. Bacon has published her work in top scientific journals as well as the highly acclaimed popular press book, Health at Every Size: The Surprising Truth About Your Weight.

Today Robyn Hussa is sharing with us about perseverance. I first connected with  Robyn when I was interested in getting involved with the blog, We Are The Real Deal, where she is the editor. I'm a huge supporter of the work that they do and had to share my story on their site. We Are The Real Deal has built an amazing community of contributors, bloggers, and readers who have their heart and soul into being positive about their body image. Check them out after you finish reading the post.  Thank you, Robyn, for sharing your story with us! I admire your accomplishments.

I'm excited that Dr. Ashley Solomon is sharing her thoughts with us today about perseverance. I really admire her career and accomplishments. Thank you, Ashley, for taking part!

Ashley Solomon, Psy.D, is a psychologist who specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, body image, trauma, and serious mental illness. She loves ice cream, yoga, and sleep. You can connect with her on her website (www.nourishing-the-soul.com) or on Facebook and Twitter.   I recommend that you do.

I'm delighted Tara Jacek, who I met through the WordPress blogging community, is sharing with us her thoughts on persevering as a young professional. She provides advice to young women entering the work world.  She is a loyal contributor to my blog and also designed the beautiful graphic in my "About Me" section of my blog.  I’m blessed to know her.  She continually inspires me and encourages me to persist. She rocks! Thanks Tara!

Dr. Susan Biali, MD, is an award-winning medical doctor, wellness  expert, life and health coach, author, and flamenco dancer. Based on  over twenty years spent studying principles of health, happiness, and  success, Dr. Biali offers hope, inspiration, and tools for life to  people worldwide. She speaks internationally, personally coaches a wide  range of clients from stay-at-home moms to military leaders, blogs for Psychology Today and is frequently featured in media such as the Ricki Lake Show, The Chicago Tribune, Cosmopolitan, Martha Stewart Living, and The Washington Post.  She is the author of the bestselling  book, Live a Life You Love: 7 Steps to a Healthier, Happier, More Passionate You.  You can find out more on her website: www.susanbiali.com

Tracey Carmichael is a Life Coach and Author of Happy Mind Formula - Your Action Plan to Mental and Physical Wellbeing. During Tracey’s 15 years as a Natural Therapist, she discovered a missing link between depression and happiness. Through her own personal experience, she discovered a formula to break this debilitating condition. With a holistic approach to food, movement, and exercise, she was able to create positive change in her own life and in the lives of her clients. Her passion is to share this message with the world to help people understand that they do have the power to move from depression to happiness.  You can check out her website at  www.happymindformula.com.

I forget exactly how I met Suzanne Hanna, but I'm so glad we connected less than a month ago.  She was such a great support when I lost my dog a couple weeks back. I'm so blessed!! Thanks Suzanne for sharing your story "The Importance of Grace" with us. 

Since the stories of the people I have encountered have influenced my thoughts and behaviours, it is only fair that these people be showcased. These individuals have touched my heart and encouraged me on my life’s journey. I hope you’ll find their stories as inspiring as I do!

I'm delighted that Elaine is sharing with us her thoughts on perseverance. She has extensive experience in education and sport, which gives her great insight on these topics. Thank you so much, Elaine! I contacted her earlier this year, as I am interested in positive organizational climates and reducing bullying in sport. I suggest you check out the program after you read her interview below. The work being done is very well needed!

Today, Danelle Kabush, is sharing her experiences of perseverance with us, as she is a professional athlete and mental performance consultant. Danelle combined her love of psychology with her other lifelong passion, sports, and completed her doctorate in Sport Psychology from the University of Ottawa in 2007. Along with competing, she works as a mental performance consultant to many different athletes in various sports. You can check out her website at http://danellekabush.com. Keep up the great work Danelle! Thanks for encouraging me to persist. I'm really glad I connected with you! Read Danielle's interview below!

Today, Felicity Lumb, who writes a blog called The Life and Loves of a girl called Felicity, is sharing with us about perseverance.  She has a powerful story to tell as she battled with and overcame anorexia.  She turned something negative into something positive - I love her honesty! Her blog was started as a way for her to promote healthy body image and fight mental health stigma.  Thanks Felicity for reminding us to Keep Loving the Skin We're In!  I'm so glad I reached out and connected with you!

Today, Wade Wilson, is sharing with us his thoughts about perseverance.  Thanks Wade!  His message is really valuable and insightful.  I suggest you read it.  Hope you are all having a wonderful weekend!

Self-Reflection is a wonderful but scary process. It is difficult to objectively look at our faults and acknowledge them, however being able to learn from past set-backs is necessary to achieve excellence. We can self-reflect on both positive and negative experiences to find strength to persevere.