Professional Knowledge and Career, Essay Example

To be successful in life one needs to have a sound mind in a sound body as two of the foremost prerequisites. In addition, one must acquire education and training in one’s chosen professional field or business. Equipped with these qualities, one needs to find a social and cultural environment in which he or she is thoroughly comfortable. Education and professional qualifications are acquired if one follows the set procedures and diligently completes the task set forth in an academic organization. Teachers, mentors, guides and coaches assist us to develop and enhance the hidden talents within us which can lead to success in life.

One of the foremost prerequisites for a good life is sound health which though ensured due to the plethora of healthcare and other facilities provided by government and social organizations in the country can be jeopardized if one does not follow certain laws of the nature like physical activity and appropriate food habits. Increasing reliance on automation and technology has put the present generation at risk as more and more youngsters are getting afflicted with the scourge of obesity. Rich food and sedentary lifestyle are the real culprits behind this malady. The United States though one of the most well organized nations of the world has a deplorable record in this aspect and leads the world in obesity figures among the young population (www.wvdhhr.org). This trend has persisted for as long as half a century now and is growing at alarming proportions. Not only does an obese person look awful, it also makes one vulnerable to deadly diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and cancer.

There is an urgent need to get into touch with nature again and adopt more physically active lifestyles in order to avoid the scourge of obesity. Proper nutrition and balanced diet intake are the associated measures which can assist in reducing obesity. An excellent way for youngsters to stay fit is to actively participate in sports events and this can be done by participating in community events, competitions and by becoming members of professional sports organizations.

One professional organizations which stands out in this endeavor is the ‘American Fitness Professionals and Associates’ (AFPA) which not only imparts professional training in various aspects of fitness but also incorporates aspects related to proper nutrition and weight management programs which can assist one in attaining perfect physical and mental health (www.afpafitness.com). In its mission statement, the AFPA contends to provide young students with knowledge and skills at an affordable cost to lead more fulfilling and healthy lives. It offers local as well as distance educational courses related to health and fitness. A member of this organization can not only attain perfection in own health but can also become a certified trainer in different skills such as ‘Nutrition and wellness’, ‘sports nutrition’, ‘weight management’, ‘pre/post natal exercise certification’, ‘Yoga Instruction’ and numerous other programs which incorporate the various facets of fitness developed till today (www.afpafitness.com). The organization publishes brochures on fitness programs and conducts programs, workshops and conference throughout the US periodically to make the public aware of the importance of peak health. In addition the organization provides career guidance and counseling for better performance in interviews and trains youngsters in dressing skills and good manners.The AFPA can assist me in achieving my professional goals as I believe the old adage of ‘a sound mind in a sound body’. If one is physically compromised, it leads to all sorts of inferiority complexes and psychological distress which sometimes leads to excessive eating or bulimia which increases the risk for acquiring obesity. Active participation in sports activities not only refreshed the body and the mid, it instills confidence which is an essential quality in today’s competitive environment. A healthy person is a source of inspiration to others and is always successful in career and ultimately leads a fulfilling and satisfying life.

References

AFPA (American Fitness Professionals and Associates), website accessed March 1, 2010 at: http://www.afpafitness.com/

Obesity: Facts, Figures, Guidelines, online data accessed March 1, 2010 at: http://www.wvdhhr.org/bph/oehp/obesity/preval.htm