In Good Times and In Bad

You know that feeling you get when you are just starting your weight-loss journey? The one where you are so dedicated. You have cleaned out your pantry and fridge and gotten rid of all the junk. You joined a gym and are exercising most days of the week. You are on it. Nothing can stop you...until it does. The "thing" that happens, whatever it may be, can put your weight-loss journey to a screeching halt.

We've all experienced this, or if you haven't, it's almost guaranteed that you will. How we react in these situations is what separates a success story from just another yo-yo dieter. My Inner Skinny Chick says: The key to getting through the challenges, set-backs, and speed bumps is to anticipate them before they occur.  I'm not saying to go into your weight-loss journey with a negative attitude, just understand that a journey without challenges just doesn't exist.

Most weight-loss journeys have a common formula: We start out with great expectations for our progress and we see results. Then the challenges arise. These challenges come in all different forms. They can range from a busy schedule, to a summer vacation, to an injury/illness, a weight-loss plateau or even stress/emotional difficulties. This is the turning point in our journey. We now have a choice; will we rise above our challenges and persevere OR will we allow these seasons of difficulty to define us and ultimately derail any progress we have made?

If you choose to persevere, then you are on to the next step of the process; character building. This is where the behavioral changes begin to emerge. You start to see yourself in a completely different light. You are a winner. You have gotten through the challenging season of your journey and are victorious. At this point any other challenges that arise don't seem as big. You are using your victory over your last challenge as proof that you can conquer anything. Before you know it, you have reached your ultimate goal and you are the author of a success story that is inspiring others.

I know, from experience, that this is a lot easier said than done. There are times that seem so hard, so draining and challenging. You begin to wonder, "What's the point?" When you find yourself in this place, choose to persevere. You will be a much better person for it. You will feel better about yourself and you never know who your story will inspire in the future.