This morning I had a client who has been working for 6 weeks on her weight loss goals. In that time, she has made some tremendous changes in her habits. I love working with her and she has had some good results. She has dropped a little over 15 pounds, yet still she was concerned she wasn’t doing enough. I know how it is, we all want those quick dramatic results, like we see on those reality television shows. The problem is, that isn’t always the best way to go. When there has been any kind of follow up done, a good number of the contestants have regained their weight and more. I see this frequently with dieters. Furthermore, not all of the methods they use are realistic or even safe.
When we reviewed her changes, she was suddenly very pleased. She used to drink several sodas a day. She has stopped that and quipped how she can drive past a Circle K store that advertises a deal on soda and not automatically pull into the parking lot. As a result, her inflammation has reduced and she is experiencing less pain. She no longer stops at the drive-thru’s to get a quick meal or snack. Her digestion has improved, no more constant heart burn or other digestive disorders. She has eliminated over indulgence in pasta and bread. Her moods have improved. Suddenly 15 pounds seemed like a ton!
My client still has progress to make. She wants to shed about 45 pounds more. She will do just that, one pound at a time. She is learning new habits including more movement into her daily routine and new ways of thinking about herself as well. She has begun to deal with the reasons she gained the weight in the first place. As a result, she is beginning to like herself more. She is also asserting herself in healthy new ways.
So, if you are on the journey of shedding excess weight, remember that it is a one pound at a time effort. Set smaller goals along the way to your ultimate goal. Mark those achievements and reward yourself with something that brings you pleasure that isn’t food related. Most important, be kind to yourself. It is your journey towards improved health. Begin to look within for the love you deserve, be your own best friend. Food is not your friend, it is simply fuel. If friends and loved ones attempt to sabotage you, call upon a professional to help keep you on track. Be your own champion, because the reward at the end is all yours!
