I have come to discover that weekdays are really the most conducive to dieting. Routine is there, little appears to be going on that breaks routine, and distraction is a lot more avoidable. Especially when distraction so often equals temptation.
I have also come to discover that I am best motivated when I have others to hold my feet to the fire. It's great, because I have a standing date with my friend Tracy to walk every day at 5 (which we've been able to do on weekdays; weekends are a different story). When I don't feel like walking, she shows up and I realize that I'm not only getting the benefit of exercise, but I also get to spend quality time with a dear friend!
It begs the question: Why do I have trouble doing this for myself? I focus on work and am successful; I focused on school and was successful...there are many things that, when I put my mind to it, I get done and I get them done quite well <pats self on back>. Why is it, then, that I have an incredibly hard time when it comes to sticking to something like an exercise program that is so good for me? If I didn't have my standing date, would I honestly get my lazy butt outside and walk for 45 minutes? Honestly, I am doubtful.
This is something that I struggle with anytime I am on any type of weight loss program. I am not a particularly selfless individual, so I can't say that it's because it's for me and I don't like to spend the energy when I'm the only person who benefits. I think it may be one of the simplest answers in the world: I hate exercising and I don't like doing things that I hate, regardless of who benefits. This is something that I have to actively work on. I have to work on my negative association with exercise and why my stomach turns at the idea of going to a gym. Walking with my friend is a total ruse on my part because I don't look at it as exercise. I look at it as getting to spend quality time and I happen to be walking while I'm doing it.
Today, I just don't have many answers outside of the obvious. I know I need to consider this more and really dig into that particular barrier. I can't put the onus on my friends or family to get me off my butt. I have to own that, just like I have to own what food I put into my mouth. Exploring and understanding that issue going to be a short-term goal of mine, I think. I need to figure out where the association comes from and work through it. At least, I hope it's a short-term goal.
In the meantime, I'll continue walking and hanging out, because that part I totally dig.
My words of wisdom....hang in there and it does get easier. It is more rewarding to make good food choices and remain physically active then taking weight off, making poor choices and moving back to square one. Believe me when I say I have learned the hard way. After a second injury prevented me from enjoying a second soccer season, I realized that I needed to make better choices and commit to myself so I could do the sport I love a lot.
ReplyDeleteDon't be so hard on yourself lady!! You are doing a great job and need to give yourself more credit! Fact of the matter is that at the end of the day, you ARE doing what it takes and you're succeeding!
ReplyDeleteYou say that if it weren't for having another person to walk with, you probably wouldn't do it (or not as often)..... but who would? Really! That's the great part about having a support system is they keep us going. We're all here for you every step of the way! You're doing great!