I’m not altogether certain I was patient much as a child, perhaps I was but just don’t recall but I suspect that I wasn’t. Patience as an adult hasn’t always been a strong point either but I am finally getting better at it. Last year, I declared that I was going to embark on the journey of being healthier. I finally had the surgery on my deviated septum, so I could breathe better. From there, I started modifying my eating habits. Already good, I made them better. No fast food, no junk food, no soda, no prepared food (that’s right – no cans, no boxes, nothing previously frozen). That was both harder and easier than I thought it would be. My husband is a marvelous cook and he has chosen to make the journey with me, so that has helped a lot!
The last step is the hardest for me – getting in shape and losing the weight. Here’s we head back to the patience thing. See, when I have worked out in the past, I’ve often either gained or stayed the same in the weight category. So I quit. Wow, that is uglier in print than in my head.
I made a commitment to myself that this time, I won’t quit. I will stay the course. So, three weeks ago, I chose a Christmas present for myself. 45 pounds in 31 weeks. 45 pounds will put me at my ideal weight. It’s a big goal and the timeline a bit aggressive but it’s better to challenge myself on this.
No matter the results, I’m staying at it until the end of 31 weeks.
I’m up to an hour of cardio and strength training six days a week. I’m working my way up to 90 minutes per day. So here I am at week three – not much in the way of weight loss so far (3 pounds) but I have lost some inches. Frustrating but some progress is better than nothing, right? Patience, I remind myself. But I wish I were better at this whole patience thing. Any words of advice for me?
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Tabitha,
You’ve touched on a topic that is near and dear. Exercising is a huge part of my life. Here are a couple of things that helped in my work-out journey:
- I made physical fitness a life time commitment. After the birth of my second child, I promised myself that exercise will always be a part of my life.
- I mix it up (a lot). To help pass the time, I switch out machines and go to different work out classes. I also try to mix up “the distraction” – I’ll read a magazine, listen to music, watch TV, or just people-watch at the gym.
- I’ve found that I have to be willing to work out by myself. I cannot rely on others to get me to the gym.
- For days when I’m not in the mood, I tell myself, “give it 10 minutes and see what happens.” Before I know it 40 minutes have passed and I’m feeling good.
Best of luck on your goal!
Leslie
Thank you, Leslie. I really like the last bit of advice – give it ten minutes and see how it goes. And yes, exercise for life – once I reach my goal, I think that I will find that a more attractive prospect. Plus, exercise will be a habit then too. I appreciate your support!