How Healthcare Works, LLC

  The Connection Between Goal Setting and Health: Why It Matters When we think about health, physical fitness, nutrition, or doctor’s appointments often come to mind. But have you ever considered how goal setting plays a crucial role in your overall well-being? Goal setting is more than just a productivity tool—it’s a pathway to better mental, emotional, and physical health. Photo by Jeanette R. Harrison, MPH  The Science of Goal Setting and Health Research shows that setting and working toward goals can significantly impact mental health. It gives you a sense of purpose, increases motivation, and can even reduce feelings of anxiety or depression. Here’s why: Focus and Clarity : Goals help you prioritize what matters most, reducing the overwhelm that can negatively impact mental health. Sense of Achievement : Reaching milestones, no matter how small, triggers the release of dopamine—a feel-good chemical in your brain that reinforces positive behavior. Structure and...

  When we think about self-care, images of bubble baths, cozy blankets, and quiet moments often come to mind. While these are all valid forms of self-care, there’s another crucial, yet often overlooked, aspect: goal setting. Taking time to define and pursue your goals is one of the most powerful ways to nurture yourself and create a life that feels fulfilling and aligned with your values. Here’s why goal setting is such an essential part of self-care: Photo by Jeanette R. Harrison, MPH 1. It Gives You a Sense of Purpose Life can feel overwhelming and aimless without a clear direction. Setting goals—even small, achievable ones—provides a roadmap for your life. It gives you something to work toward, which can instill a sense of purpose and motivation, even during challenging times. 2. It Boosts Confidence and Self-Worth Every goal you achieve, no matter how big or small, reinforces the belief that you are capable of accomplishing what you set your mind to. This builds confidenc...

Have you ever felt like every step forward is met with someone trying to pull you back? Recently, I mentioned a goal I was working toward, and instead of encouragement, I was met with a suggestion to consider a generic retail job. It wasn't the first time someone’s comment made me feel less than, but this time, it struck a deeper nerve. It made me realize how little this person thinks of me.  Photo by Jeanette R. Harrison, MPH  The truth is, comments like these can feel deflating and make you question everything—your goals, your dreams, and even your self-worth. You may start to feel like others think you don't deserve anything in life.  And if you’re already struggling with self-doubt, it can feel like confirmation of your worst fears. For me, this comment was especially hurtful because it reminded me of a fear I’ve carried for years: that I’ll never get to live my dreams. Writing books is one of the few dreams I’ve achieved, but even that often feels diminished. Sure,...

by Jeanette R. Harrison, MPH Have you ever felt like no matter what you do, someone has something negative to say about it and no one has your back? That’s been my reality for as long as I can remember. From my personal choices to my professional achievements, there always seems to be a critique, a dismissal, or an outright insult waiting around the corner. It’s exhausting and, honestly, disheartening. Let me share some examples that might resonate with you or at least shed light on how constant criticism affects those of us who face it. In this photo, I am promoting a top for Shijiali “Blessed in this Area” Recently, I made an offhand comment about liking how my shirt fit because, as I put it, "I am blessed in that area." The comment wasn't out of line because I was reviewing a shirt -- a product I had been sent by a company, Shijiali .  Instead of taking it as a lighthearted, self-affirming moment, someone found a way to turn it into a point of contention and a way to...

Goal setting is a transformative practice that can help you clarify your vision, stay focused, and track progress. The right journal can make all the difference by offering prompts, structure, and inspiration. With so many options available, finding the perfect journal can feel overwhelming. To help you get started, here’s a curated list of the best goal-setting journals available on Amazon, with a special spotlight on a standout choice that’s perfect for anyone looking to achieve their dreams. Photo by Jeanette R. Harrison  1. Bragging About You: A Guided Journal If you’re looking for a guided journal that’s more than just a place to jot down your thoughts, Bragging About You is the ultimate choice. This journal is designed to help you celebrate your accomplishments, set meaningful goals, and track your progress with intention. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to stay motivated while building confidence. With reflective prompts, space for planning, and sections to acknowledg...

What Does a Public Health Policy and Planning Professional Do? Did you know I have a Master of Public Health (MPH) with a focus on Policy and Planning? This degree, combined with over 25 years of experience in health and education—and now as the owner of How Healthcare Works —is the foundation of the work I do. My background and training allow me to design programs and strategies that make a real difference in people’s lives and in the systems that impact their health. But what does a public health policy expert and planner actually do? Let me share how it all comes together in my business. BTFBM is represented as a sponsor in this photo.  Public health policy and planning focus on the "big picture" of health. It’s about designing strategies, implementing programs, and influencing systems that impact entire populations. The work involves: Developing health policies to address systemic challenges and improve access to care. Creating strategic plans that ensure programs ...