PHOENIX – Arizona Army National Guardsman Pfc. Francisca Morales, a chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear specialist, shows fellow soldiers what being motivated can do for a person. She was on the verge of being discharged when she pushed herself to pass the Army Physical Fitness Test.
Morales, a member of the 996th Area Support Medical Company, achieved a 20 pound weight loss, and passed her APFT with 260 points.
The discharge paperwork was done and ready to be submitted.
“I didn’t want to leave, because I’ve wanted to join since I was a little girl.” said Morales.
She said passing the APFT was important to her because it means she can continue to pursue her dreams and doing what she loves as a CBRRN.
Morales said soldiers shouldn’t let themselves get to the point of being discharged before getting in shape, just work hard and keep motivated every day. “You shouldn’t give up even when you feel like it’s over; there is always someone to help you.”
After only three months she achieved her goal. Setting small goals is important, it makes it easier to get to your bigger goal said Morales.
She had a different running schedule from day to day. Such as running sprints or a short distance run one day, and then the next day she would run three miles.
It was helpful to have people motivating her.
“I feel like it’s easier to feel motivated when you have someone with you instead of doing it alone,” said Morales.
Having her unit there for her was a big motivator in itself. Morales said when she couldn’t pass everyone would tell her not to give up.
Morales also had her family to lean on. She said her Mom wouldn’t let her give up. She would just tell her it was for her own good, and to keep pushing harder because she could do it.
Morales said this is her passion, she loves the Army, and it means a lot for her to be able to stay in.
A positive attitude goes a long way, and picturing yourself achieving your goal is a good way to accomplish it said Morales.
“If I can do it anyone can, they just have to put their mind to it,” said Morales.
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