Just about everyone that I know has something about their body that they would like to change. A smaller waist, a larger chest, or fewer wrinkles on their face, just to name a few. But does it ever stop? If you lose ten pounds, do you wish it was fifteen? Is anyone ever really happy with the way they look?
Once I knew there was a beach vacation in my future, I immediately went on “mission swimsuit” and decided to set a steep weight loss goal. I envisioned a perfect vacation in my new skinny body. My efforts were pretty strong but were just not quite enough to meet that hefty goal. With less than two weeks away from the trip, I knew that I would not be at my target weight. Did I feel like a failure? Would my trip be any less enjoyable? Would my friends be any less happy to see me? The answers are no, no and no.
Instead of concentrating on what I didn’t accomplish, I decided to focus on what I did succeed in doing. My body is getting toned and there is a noticeable definition in my arm muscles thanks to my workouts. My clothes fit better as a result of the weight that I did lose. So I didn’t lose the twenty-something pounds that was my ideal goal prior to my vacation. But I did lose ten and celebrated by treating myself to a few flattering new outfits to take on the trip. I was excited to spend time with my husband and our friends. Nothing could take that away. I had a fantastic time and enjoyed fine dining, fabulous desserts and intoxicating drinks. I focused on the things that I really wanted and had them, without overdoing it. Moderation, not starvation. It was our first vacation without the kids in four years and I was determined to have a fantastic time.
I am like many others and still cringe at the sight of myself in a swimsuit. After having three children, I may never find myself wearing another itsy bitsy bikini again but at least I am at a point where I can look in the mirror and say, “not too bad” back to the reflection.
Just because the trip is over, doesn’t mean the weight loss goal is. With my return home, I am back on track with exercise and healthy eating. I believe that I will lose more weight. Healthy living and weight loss. It’s a work in progress. Isn’t just about everything in life?