Two Years of Maintaining
Saturday, March 15th marked my 2nd anniversary at goal!!
While I have adjusted and settled into my lifestyle of maintenance, I must remain diligent and ready at moment's notice to evaluate and re-evaluate in order to make the best decision. This of course at times is easier said than done! It's those curve balls that Life throws you. Some are easier to handle then others.
My strategy for not only maintaining my weight but dealing with a busy life of family, friends, work and trying to fit in time for me has been centered around the three A's -
Accept,
Avoid or
Alter. A simple rule for dealing with the day-to-day stress and the demands of life.
This year has been no exception! I have dealt with my first baby to leave the nest, a very dear friend's diagnosis of brain cancer who passed away 37 days later, many changes and challenges at work, supporting family and friends who are dealing with challenges & struggles and the frustration of not being able to help everyone. On the flip side, there's also the fun things that can derail a solid eating plan; we went on a fantastic all-inclusive trip to the Mayan Riviera (loved it so much went back this January), countless birthday celebrations, anniversaries, pool parties, BBQ's, picnics, boat rides, etc., etc., etc.!!! There is just so many things in our lives that can derail and lead to self-sabotage.
I no longer refer to them as "slip-ups", rather "choices" some that are planned for and some that I make the best decision based on the circumstances. Whatever the case, it's important to let go of the all-or-nothing attitude and get right back on plan.
This year has been far from "perfect". I endured struggles, challenges and disappointments and sometimes the scale reflected them. But I had choices; 'accept', 'avoid' or 'alter' and I'm still learning to say "no"
This journey has made me a stronger person, I have learned that I am determined and focused, I learned that I am worth the effort and I have learned that support such as this forum is key to our success no matter where you are on your weight loss journey!
We all have the strength, the will power and the WANT power to do this!!! No one claims its easy but I can tell you, it is worth it -
YOU ARE WORTH IT!!!!
Keep Swimming!