Looking back to go forward.
All too often we criticise ourselves. We overlook our accomplishments and focus on what we have not done. Like most people, I too am guilty of this. I look at my jiggly thighs, arms and stomach and focus on how much further I have to go to get the body I know I deserve. I may celebrate my achievements but just for a brief moment before moving on to the next. As I sat in my bed reflecting on the past year, I decided to look at the photos on my facebook page. I do this sometimes when I need a reminder of just how far I've come on this journey to healthy living.
Although I became truly committed to losing weight and getting healthy in November 2009, I started thinking about it and doing things long before then. Perhaps the most public thing I did was be one of 12 challengers with EA SPORTS Active last April prior to the official release of the game. During that 30 day challenge I successfully lost 10 pounds. The picture above was taken before I started the challenge and honestly, I am not sure how much I weighed, I think I was about 200 pounds.
Today I am weighing in at 157.4 pounds. Over the last five months I've worked really hard at making this my way of life - I know I say this repeatedly but this is something I want everyone to understand. Unless living a healthy, active lifestyle becomes a way of life, you won't be successful. Losing weight for an event, for someone else, or because you are in the public eye never works over the long term.
I exercise and eat healthy now because I know the health benefits, I know that I am extending my life, I want to be the best me I can be. I am choosing me and refuse to revert to my old ways. I refuse to look like that woman in the picture on the left. I challenge myself to be as fit as the woman in the photo on the right for now and for always.
Quite a bit has changed over the last year for me - both on the outside and on the inside. After finally dealing with the emotional issues tied to my weight I've been able to overcome it, not for the short term but for the long haul. It is my hope that my journey can inspire others to take baby steps and make forward movement to reach their goals. If I can do it, anyone can do it.
My journey is just beginning and I have to ask if you haven't already done so, are you ready to begin yours?
