Hello everyone! I hope all of you had a great weekend. I wanted to start off this week with an interview with my sister Alexis. I talk about her blog every month in my monthly income updates, but I’ve never actually dedicated a full article on her website.
Her blog is FITnancials and I helped her start her blog last year. She blogs about healthy living and personal finance.
If you are interested in starting your own, check out my article that will show you the steps to create a blog.
Tell us about yourself.
First off, my name is Alexis and I am in my early twenties.
I used to be around 180 pounds and I was extremely unhealthy. Smoking a pack of cigarettes a day and drinking tons of soda was what my average day of consisted of. You might laugh because I was young, but it still happened.
I never exercised nor believed girls should do anything besides cardio.
One day I had a breakthrough and I realized I needed to get healthier, but the journey there wasn’t easy at all.
Why did you decide to blog?
I decided to blog to be able to reach out to others who were in need of help. I wasn’t just going to be any other blogger, I was a girl that came from experience of being heavy once myself.
I can relate to others who are in the process of having extra weight on them.
What do you like about blogging?
I love being able to meet others who are so passionate about fitness and nutrition as well. Surprisingly, a lot of my friends around me aren’t into eating healthy and exercising.
Most of my fitness friends are from online that I’ve met through blogging and Instagram.
What are your favorite blogs?
My favorite fitness blogs would definitely have to be Blogilates and Simply Taralynn.
I love Blogilates because she posts free workouts along with free meal plans as well. Taralynn’s blog reminds me of something out of Pinterest. She is always posting so many creative meals and makes everything look so interesting.
This is a personal finance blog, so I have to ask. Would you say you are good with money?
In all honesty, I would say I’m best with my money when I am running lower than I’d like to be at.
It’s sort of like a wake up call.
It hasn’t happened in awhile because I think I finally learned to save money whenever possible. I set aside a certain amount of money bi-weekly and that has helped me tremendously.
What’s your best money tip?
What I mentioned in the last question; take out a certain amount of money each check. Have it direct deposited through your bank account to your savings so you don’t even have to think about it. This has saved me so much money.
Pay yourself first!
Do you have any student loans?
At the moment I do not. I went to community college for a year and paid out of pocket. I am starting school in Chicago starting this Fall, so I will definitely have some school loans then.
Why should people read your blog?
People should read my blog if they’ve ever felt alone in the process of losing weight or becoming healthier. A lot of people feel like they are in the journey alone or don’t personally know anyone who is going through the same feeling.
I come from experience knowing what it is like to be heavier and I am here to help you achieve your goals. I love motivating and inspiring others and simply making others feel good about themselves no matter where they are body wise.
Are you working on being healthy as well as improving your finances?
Do you prioritize one over the over? Why or why not?
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Kasia says
Focusing on both health and finances is important. I try to do both although looking after my health seems to be a lot easier than looking after my finances!
Michelle S. says
Haha I find that looking after my health is more difficult. I find it so hard to stay on track!
John @ Wise Dollar says
Nice to meet you Alexis! We’ve really moved to making our health as important, if not more so, than our finances this past year. It is nice to see progress from changes which just challenges us to continue – much like with money I guess. 🙂
Michelle S. says
We’ve been the same way. We have been so focused on health and it’s been great!
James Salmons says
Congratulations to Alexis!
Alexis has certainly recognized one of the greatest values of the blogging world, finding a support group. An online community is one way to do it.
When it comes to achieving anything important, good health and financial success being two of the most important, it helps to be able to interact with others who have the same interests. Often our immediate family and friends are not interested, even hostile in some case, which makes it hard for some people to succeed.
Through your blogging communities, both of you, Alexis and Michelle, have helped a world of others as well as finding strength for your own journey. Thanks to both of you.
Michelle S. says
Aww thanks James 🙂
Alexis says
Thank you James =)
kammi says
I agree that health and finance (and balance) go hand in hand. Also, I was reading recently that success often comes in groups; for example, a bunch of musicians all knew each other on the way to success, and if you’ve ever read Q (which is a GREAT book, btw) on the life of Quincy Jones, there was a time where he was mentoring and in the company of a lot of the greats who were younger at the time. I also feel like I get a lot more done and am more productive when I work out in the morning, too!
Michelle S. says
Yes, health and finance need to go hand in hand. It is possible to make them both work at the same time!
Thanks for stopping by Kammi 🙂
Michelle S. says
She is the healthiest person I know. I’m jealous and I am always trying to be more like her!
Chris says
Great blog Alexis. I’ve come across your blog several times and never realizes you were sisters. That’s pretty darn cool.
Michelle S. says
Haha yes we are sisters 🙂
Holly@ClubThrifty says
Hey Alexis! We are always working on our health and our finances. I actually think the two are related to a certain extent. It’s all about being the best we can be and living a happy, healthy life! =)
Michelle S. says
Yes, I think they are related as well!
Kara Bissonnette says
I’m always working on improving both my health and financials. I will definitely check your blog out!
Michelle S. says
Yes, please check out my sister’s blog 🙂
Shane Prather says
Love love love your new design!
Michelle S. says
Thank you! 🙂
Nicola says
I’m trying to improve my health and finances, so I will check your blog out!
Michelle S. says
She would appreciate it 🙂
Natalie says
Very nice post. I am glad you were able to adopt better eating habits. I am still trying to kick soda consumption. It is just so yummy but I am sick of hearing how bad it is for you.
steve weber says
Awesome blog Alexis,
great job with the design and content.. and cant beat this awesome prize!
Alexis says
Thank you!
Daniel M says
I’m trying to do both but with limited funds it’s difficult to do either
Gina Helton says
Yes, I focus on both. Both of are of equal importance 🙂
Natalie says
I prioritize focusing on my health but recently I am more invested in getting my finances under control.
Nicole Dz says
I already live a healthy lifestyle and focus on being the best I can be mentally and physically daily. I am currently working on my finances right now, and working towards making better finance goals.
Bridget Heiple Reich says
Yes, I am working on both. It’s a lot easier for me to stick to a budget than to lose weight. I’ve been in credit card debt before and have learned how to budget so that doesn’t happen again. I’ve also been much thinner, but I’m having trouble getting back there again!
CeCe @Pink Sunshine says
I definitely focus on both health and healthy finances. Always have always will because I really don’t know anything else.
Amanda says
I’ve unfortunately been neglecting my health a little bit lately, because I lost my health benefits when I was laid off, and simply can’t afford to continue some things that were for my health. I’m keeping up with my prescriptions, but had to give up the chiropractor, and delay re-joining a gym. Hopefully this all turns around within the next month or so and I can get back on track with both!
Alexis says
If you don’t have money for a gym, don’t bother. That might come as a surprise for a personal trainer to say, but there’s re countless ways to workout at home. YouTube videos, workout videos from the library, and even apps for your phone have free workouts.
Lauren S. says
I am absolutely working on both, and it has been easy. I now buy more produce and frozen vegetables, along with fresh-cut chicken breasts, and it is FAR less expensive than if I were to eat packaged, processed foods.
Alexis says
Good for you Lauren =)
Jason B says
I am working on both. I work out at least 3 times a week. for my finances I am working on more opportunities each day and learning more about money.
Will says
What was your breakthrough?!
Alexis says
I feel like I had a few actually. Realizing walking up a stair of flights was too difficult. Not having money because I would spend it all on food and cigarettes. Looking in the mirror and topping over 180 pounds. Plenty of negative things.
Lisa E. @ Lisa vs. the Loans says
I feel like my struggle with my weight will never end. I would love to read more from someone who has actually fought the battle I’m going through right now and won. I am working on both my financial and physical health. However, right now I’m prioritizing my financial health over my physical health. I really need to create a balance between the two.
Alexis says
I hope I can be of some help Lisa. I’d love to talk to you more!
Blessie Nelson says
I try to do both even though finances take more priority with the economy these days. Its not easy but when I get time, I workout to make up!
bex smith says
I currently prioritise finances over health – oops! Probably should give them equal attention!
crystal says
Yes, I am trying to get back in to running and taking down my debt.
Michelle L says
Are you working on being healthy as well as improving your finances?
Both, I think. THey are interconnected. I’m guessing fiscally depressed can cause stress on the body(headaches).
Do you prioritize one over the over? Why or why not? Both, they both are important.
Holly Wright says
I look after both my finances and health, but my finances are extremely important!
Stefanie Foote says
I’m working on improving my finances currently and should be working on improving my health as well. I get into a state of despair over both which usually makes the health situation worse. I need a major life overall in both areas!
Alexis says
Hopefully I can be of some help in the health and fitness area!
Ann Fantom says
I’m always working on being healthy as well as improving my finances. Being healthy is my priority because you can buy your health.
Melissa says
Aw, I’ve been reading Alexis’ blog for a while now – I’m excited about her move and new school in Chicago! Can’t wait to continue reading and vicariously enjoying school through her blog posts. I bet she (you, Alexis, if you’re reading :)) will have lots of interesting posts to share about health.
Personally, I try to place weight (ha, punny) on both managing my finances and my weight, but I seem to go in extremes. When I was younger, I was extremely motivated to be healthy, but I didn’t pay attention to my finances. Now that I’m older, I have a savings account, but now also a couple extra pounds (ahem… more than a couple) to show for it. I need balance!
Alexis says
Thanks Melissa. I’m very excited for my move! I will be posting a lot about my move and the city I’m living in. =)
Colleen Boudreau says
I’m trying to work on both.
Tory says
I’m working on improving both situations but its very hard being a full time college student. No money and very little time to exercise and so many unhealthy things around
Alexis says
True Tory. Times get tough in college.
DC @ Young Adult Money says
If you don’t have your physical health you have nothing, so I would say I prioritize that. But I also know that the better you are off financially, the easier it is to tap into resources that will help you be healthy. It also takes away stress which is a huge problem for many people – myself included.
Alexis says
Very true. It can definitely go both ways. People who are low on money often say that don’t have the resources to be healthy but there is always a way.
Dan @ Our Big Fat Wallet says
Great post. Ive also come across your blog in the past and never realized you two were related. Keep up the good work!
Alexis says
Thank you Dan!
nickie says
I’m tring to save.
Mai Tran says
I am working on being healthy as well as improving my finances at the same time. However, I don’t go to gym. I maintain health by a good diet and a lot of moving around. I do prioritize health over finances since finances can only be maintained when one has good health.
Alexis says
Very true Mai =)
Kayla K says
Love your blog! I’ve been reading forever!
Tina Marie says
This is a great question, and one that I’ve been grappling with lately. I have decided that being healthy is my priority, because without your health, you don’t have energy or brain power to improve your finances.
Alexis says
That’s a great way to look at everything in life. Health overrides everything in my opinion.
Valencia says
I am working on being healthy. I do need to concentrate more on improving finances. The health part has been taking priority because I was sick for a good while.
Mishelle says
I am working on both – being more healthy AND getting healthy financially because now I am a divorced Mom and I need to be there for my children.
M
Alexis says
Good for you Mishelle. =)
Mary Happymommy says
Our finances are our biggest priority right now because we’re buying a new house.
Lisa Brown says
Q) Are you working on being healthy as well as improving your finances? A) Always doing that.
Q) Do you prioritize one over the over? Why or why not? A) I actually prioritize a bit more with health, my finances are in good standing.
Julie Wood says
I am very good at working on being healthy, and I have always known that my finances are important, and I do not waste money. I have a retirement account that I do not touch, and I save money every month in case of an emergency.
Alexis says
Good for you Julie. =)
Tari Lawson says
Yes, we constantly work on being healthy. As for our finances, with a child in college we have had to make some changes. We are working on developing a plan for our future and what to do once the college payments are finished.
Cynthia C says
I work hard on both good health and financial well being, but I believe nothing is more important than health. If you are ill, you can’t enjoy what wealth can bring.
Alexis says
Very true Cynthia.
Carly Smith says
I prioritize trying to be healthy over improving my finances, because being in good healthy underlies everything. If you don’t take care of your body and nurture your self, everything else is secondary.
Alexis says
That is a great way to look at life Carly.
Ronald Turner says
not working on finances
Shannon says
Yes I am trying to eat healthier as much as I can. Some foods I will not buy because they are more expensive.
Christine Presto says
I work on both my finances and fitness – I just recently signed up for Diet Bet, so maybe a little extra income and motivation for sure will help with getting healthier!!
Alexis says
I’ve heard of dietbet. Thinking about doing it myself as well!
Christine Presto says
Yeah, this is the first one I actually went through signing up for. I’ve been pretty lazy about my fitness recently so it’s a swift kick in the butt. haha. Chris and Heidi Powell are hosting this specific one!
Caitlyn says
My finances are pretty well in check, now I need to work on the healthy, or healthier, part.
Lynne says
I am so sorry if this is a duplicate – my computer hiccupped……. I walk alot to try to stay healthy, but I also tend to buy more processed inexpensive foods in an effort to save money – it is a balancing act, for sure.
alexis says
I’m definitely working more on my fitness at this point in time. My finances are great right now, but my health isn’t. :/
Suzanne K says
I’m working on both, but health a bit more because finances are in a bit better shape than I am
jenn giannetto says
unfortunately i always prioritize finances because it has more immediate consequences when not managed well and i have an easier time with what is in front of me and not far ahead
Jo-Ann Brightman says
I am working on being healthy and want to improve my finances too.
Kate says
I feel that I have a good handle on my finances, but I should definitely work harder at being healthy. While I’m by no means unhealthy, I know I could devote more time and effort to this area!
Mary Beth Elderton says
We are working on both. I began “cleaning” our diet some time ago, and we have recently purchased a small house. Now that we aren’t paying rent and are eating food from scratch at home, we are getting healthier both physically and financially.
Paula V says
Yes, I’m working on both health and financial wellness. No, I don’t prioritize one over the other. Health is more important than wealth unless financial debt is a factor in which that can cause health problems.
saida says
I just came across your blog recently, and reading your story is incredible – I admire the way you’re using your own achievements to help others, especially in health!
Have a great weekend, Saida xx
Dagmar I says
I love your blog! I’m only starting to think about budgeting my money as I’m going off to university for the first time in the fall, I’m hoping I can save more money and keep the shopper in my at bay.
ISA VAL says
thanks for lovely chance!!!
I’d like to work for being healthy
Margarida says
I’m really glad your sister got healthier! I just starting working out after a year without doing practically nothing and I love it! It’s so good to feel that muscles that you didn’t even existed are being used and I love doing something good for my body. Thank you so much for the opportunity 🙂
Varun Narula says
Good luck everyone with the giveaway !!
roland monkman says
so important to look after your heath first and your finances second.
Irene Newstead says
I am still recovering from my third stroke on June 9 last year and have learned the importance of living a healthy lifestyle, which includes both healthy eating and daily exercising. One benefit….I no longer cringe when I step on the scale.
Edmond says
It is hard for me to stay healthy with poor nutrition, no supplements, lack of food. SOS. Help. Pick me, pick me! Your next winner!!! Show me the money!!! It would be a dream come true & means more to me than anyone else to win. Starving artist here desperately needs the $250 paypal to shop & eat again. Winner, winnner. Chicken dinner. A life changing experience. Top of my bucket list. Thanks for the awesomeness, the contest, & generosity. Dear Santa: I’ve been nice. My X-Mas wish this year is to win this contest!
Mike says
Thanks!
Ally Paraguan says
Awesome post! I am working on being healthy as possible, as well as improving my finances at the same time, I am 21 years old and a full time student. I believe organization is the key for success, so I always cook my healthy meals and snack for school. Saving money and getting healthier 😉
Michael Alacapa says
Savings + Insurance is a must for everyone!
Michael Alacapa says
Thanks for the tip!
Nikola Webster says
I’m undecided. The interview is great and honest. I struggle with weight/finances and health all connected. Three independent topics. For me, three separate pillars. All three are different and totally different niches. This said it bleeds to the”lifestyle niche” which is legit. I just wish we laser-focused in and hit one element hard 🙂 Great read ladies! Nikki