Excuses At Any Weight Class

[Susan_Marlowe]

I was shopping in a mall yesterday when I bumped into a former member of the fitness center that I own. The woman said “Hi Lisa, how are you? – you look exactly the same!” I suppose that is a compliment. I knew it was a compliment when I realized I had no recollection of who she was. Gaining weight can significantly distort one’s face, not to mention the burden on joints, stress on the heart and the investment in many different sizes of clothing. Often individuals get frustrated when they are on a nutrition and fitness program and they don’t see significant weight loss on the scale, which is why I was compelled to share this story. Maintenance is an amazing goal. It is incredible just to maintain ones weight and fitness level. When you are super motivated and can focus on a controlled calorie intake and a focused exercise program, then you can slowly deplete your body of stored fat. The same woman that I bumped into also had a soft pretzel with artificial melted cheese sauce in her hand when we met. After a brief conversation she said “this is not really for me you know-I bought it for my kids”. I never want my personal stories to seem insensitive to those that struggle with the emotional connections and chemical imbalances from the foods we eat. Of course, it is one of the most challenging things to control and balance: ONES WEIGHT AND DAILY FOOD INTAKE. Understand that in order to lose only 1 pound you must burn or deplete 3500 calories. In order to lose 10 pounds one must deplete 35,000 calories from the body. That is why this equation is often overwhelming. This process is easier when a complete support system is in place before you say go!!! I recommend a 4 prong approach rather than excuses. The nutrition, fitness, image and empowerment information and motivation is the key. Also, to speed up the results even more, write it down. Studies show that a SORT OF PERSONAL CONTRACT WITH ONE’S SELF CREATES FOCUS AND ACCOUNTABILITY. When you break things down to many parts it is easier to connect the dots and get to the finish line. Don’t be hard on yourself if you are stuck in a plateau–surround yourself with positive people and seek a solid program that supports the entire self -not just the physical. And lastly, congratulate yourself often. When you realize that you are in your best weight and well being assessment, you should say that it is the best for right at this moment. There is no benefit to self sabotage or feeling bad. The idea is to stay focused on 1 day at a time or even 1 moment at a time. The point is that taking action is the key, so always take action—never allow the excuses dialog to get the best of you. It’s worth it! You are worth it!!! –May it be a 5 -500 pound loss- Good Luck!!!