A Personal Reflection on SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being

Muhammad Miftah Baihaqi bin Muhamad Safri

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Staying and becoming healthy is a process that is not easy to accomplish as it calls for a lot of dedication in most cases when one is managing different challenges, such as the case of weighing problems. Reflecting on my personal experience of struggling with and eventually achieving weight loss, I have gained a deeper appreciation for SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, known for focusing on the interior aspect of the person—physical and mental health for every citizen and resident of Earth.

When I was beginning to change my body and my lifestyle, deciding to lose some weight, I felt insecure and scared about it. Originally, with reference to what I believed I would face, I thought it would be tiring, and the greatest challenges were craving and self-doubt. I had already done it before, and this made me wonder if this would work this time around. For this, I went through information on balanced diets, understood portion control, and started goal-setting. However, I still feel nervous about whether I can stick to my plan in the face of past struggles.

The journey was not very easy at all. In the beginning, I had quite a number of temptations and moments of frustration. But there was one crucial mistake, which I unnoticeably made from the very beginning, that was the focus on perfection instead of constancy. I began with little positive behaviour changes, such as avoiding soda and extra sweet beverages and increasing my intake of homemade meals. Therefore, incorporate daily, even if weekly, walk drills. After a few months, I started experiencing other changes not only in terms of the figure but also in terms of health. I had more energy, had better sleep, and even felt better about myself. Such small achievements encouraged me to continue pursuing my goal. I also learnt not to remember the negative experiences by learning that every positive experience counts.

I can only say that I am very glad where I am now. Everyone says that losing weight is difficult, but with a strong effort it will be achieved. Through the process, I also managed to gain discipline and patience and learnt the importance of taking care of myself. It also benefitted me in clarifying the overall theme of SDG 3 as well. Food that is healthy, suitable knowledge about nutrition, and physical activity that does not pose any harm for their health are vital for everybody.

That is why I will carry on working towards implementing SDG 3 by raising awareness on ensuring people lead healthy lifestyles and by supporting programs that make health affordable to everyone. It is not simple to attain optimized health; however, it is among the greatest investments that one could make for himself or herself and the forthcoming generations.