When I hear the TICK, TICK, TICKING of the clock and glance up to see it is 5 pm on a Friday evening, I start thinking about a bottle of smooth red wine and the cheese and crackers that I could have with it.
I close my eyes and attempt to shut out the idea by reaching for a bottle of spring water from the fridge. As I reach for the water at the back of the fridge, my hand grazes a cold bottle of seasonal beer. I lick my lips as I think about how good that would taste right now. Especially if I ordered pizza for dinner.
NO! NO! Shut the fridge door! Where is my secret weapon?
To stay on track when trying to lose weight, I put little hints around my house reminding me of my goal and one is hidden on my fridge amidst pictures of all the kids that I know. It is that picture that I hate of myself. It is my “fat” picture that I set aside to look at it when I am wavering.
I know it is there, strategically placed under photos of my nephews, Luke and Ben. I hold the picture and imagine myself saying, “You don’t really want that, the craving will pass.”
Silly? Yes, but it works for me.
I have said it before. I always eat healthier when I am pregnant. I was usually very careful about the foods that I was eating and nourishing my unborn child with. I made myself a little sign that I hung on my fridge that said, “Are you making the best food choice for your baby?” This kept me focused on fueling my body with foods that would give my child the very best start. So why do I have a hard time maintaining the same thought process for myself after my babies are born?
It is hard to stay motivated if it takes some time to get results. It is discouraging when you are working hard and eating right but don’t see the scale moving the direction that you want. That is why I try to only weigh myself once a week. Sometimes motivators show up just when you need them most. This week the scale told me I am down 1.4 pounds! That progress will keep me strong this week. Stay tuned for next week!