This month’s Member Spotlight belongs to YippeeIamFit, who makes her debut due to her motivational and inspirational presence in the Community. We chatted with her about her optimistic attitude, her enthusiasm for life and her future plans as a video blogger for the Nutrisystem Channel on YouTube.

Where do you get your endless supply of optimism from?
"I believe that optimism is the survival skill that has enabled me to set and obtain goals in my life. It has also helped me through the tough times. There is a big difference between being an optimist and an idealist; I know life is not perfect and I have been through some very tough times that have made me the person I am today. But looking at the bright side of a situation always brings a better result. Optimism doesn't come naturally; it’s a skill that I practice every single day. My cup is half full—and to me that means there is another half that’s open and ready to be filled with even greater things."

After several career changes, you’re now working toward becoming a personal trainer. What inspired you to make that decision?
"I have seriously thought about becoming a personal trainer since 2001 when I gave up law. But, I felt it was too hypocritical for me to tell clients to work out and eat healthy when I wasn't willing to do it myself. I can't live by the ‘do as I say, not as I do’ philosophy. Now, I am living the healthy lifestyle that I can prescribe to friends and clients, and I really do owe this new career to Nutrisystem."

How did you get involved in vlogging for the Nutrisystem YouTube Channel? Can you give us a sneak preview of what to expect in future installments?
"The Community Moderators inspired me to start my videos and become a vlogger for Nutrisystem, and I was honored to do so. I shot more footage with [fellow Nutrisystem success story] Margo while we were together for the QVC appearances; I just need to get them edited and uploaded. I would love to do a whole series of workout videos for Nutrisystem to introduce exercise to people currently living sedentary lifestyles. We want to spread the word that it’s never too late to get healthy!"

What else can we expect from you in 2012?
"As soon as I finish the personal training certification, I will start the process to become a wellness/life coach. I’m also in the process of setting up my motivational website which will offer free advice on healthy eating (with Nutrisystem, of course), training programs and maintaining a winning outlook. And on top of that, in the next few weeks I will be participating in the filming of the television series Wipeout, which is something I would not have had the confidence to do prior to my weight loss."

What drives you to be so committed, even after you’re reached your weight loss goal?
"I want everyone to feel the sense of pride that comes with accomplishing great things in their lives. A lot of people don't set goals because they’re afraid of failure and/or don't have the support they need. I can be their cheerleader; how rewarding is that? Nutrisystem has changed my life in so many ways, and I want to help other people do the same."

*Results not typical. On Nutrisystem, you can expect to lose at least 1-2 pounds per week.
 Weight lost on prior Nutrisystem program.