There seems to be a few things in life that I always want. I always crave new handbags. I always wish that I had a few more pairs of shoes. I always need more time in the day. And I always want to lose weight.
As I flipped through the smooth pages of my current month of SELF magazine, something caught my eye. Somewhere between the fitness pages that I was ripping out (the kind that I carefully tear out and save but never look at again, let alone attempt to perform the exercises that are illustrated) and the must have wardrobe items to pack for your next vacation getaway, my eyes spotted a bold headline in the middle of the page, “Can’t wait to lose 8!”
Hmmm. I would like to lose eight pounds. I was intrigued enough to read more. As it turns out, the magazine is challenging their readers to set weight loss goals and track their progress through the Self.com website. There are sponsors that are donating prizes for lucky winners but the most enticing aspect is the idea of losing eight pounds within the month.
What do I have to lose? With any luck, at least eight pounds. The very thought of it brings a smile to my face. Losing eight pounds is almost losing a full dress size. My mind starts spinning with the images of the clothes that fit just a little too snug for my liking and the possibilities of the outfits that I could put together with them once I like the way that they fit. They got me. Sign me up.
So I go to Self.com/goal, to enter my information and customize my workouts and eating plan. Even with no one looking over my shoulder, I am tempted to round down my actual weight. However, I resist because I want the numbers accurate so I can record what I hope will be lost.
When it comes to fitness, the action is simple. Eat healthy. Feed your body the good things that it needs. Exercise to burn calories and build muscle. Easy to say. Simple to remember. So why isn’t it always easy to do? Why do I feel like I will have success when I am reporting to a website? Maybe for the same reason that people like to have workout buddies or personal trainers. It creates accountability.
I usually am successful with weight loss goals when I keep a food journal. When I see the food that I am fueling my body with, it is easier to make good choices. My diet is less than perfect but the journal can help me recognize that poor food choices are just that, choices. You are in control of what you eat.
Be disciplined. Get strong. Lose eight pounds!
Edited by Jody Smith