I am a mother of three young children, wife, sister, daughter and woman — not necessarily in that order. Whether it's having children, changing jobs or careers, there is generally always some variable in life that can make maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle difficult — or simply not a high priority.

Over the years, I've learnt that it is important to take care of myself, so that I can take care of the people I love. I'll be honest — I still don't always get the balance right, because life is so variable. But I am learning, and isn't that what life is? A lifelong series of lessons.

I have my own experience living through phases where exercise and my wellbeing just aren't high on the priority list. I've had to push through real mental hurdles to get myself back to being active, stronger, fitter and more functional.

In Karen's experience - personal and from working with other women - these are the stories we tell ourselves that make change feel impossible.