Half of the people who make New Year’s resolutions have given up on them by the end of June, according to activepause.com. The top three resolutions are: stop smoking, exercise, and lose weight. Better money management and debt reduction trail closely behind.
It’s been six months since I began a healthy lifestyle plan in my quest to find the balance between happy and healthy. Though I didn’t necessarily make a New Year’s resolution — I caught myself binge-eating sweets during President Obama’s farewell address Jan. 10 — that’s OK, because I’m back to unsweetened tea and almonds today.
Trust me, it’s not easy making a commitment to stick with something, as each day has its own set of struggles and rewards.
When I first hopped on the scale back in May 2016, I was finally ready to face a life-long struggle of mine dead on. When I saw the numbers on the scale tick past 200 pounds, I was mortified. I was depressed, self-conscience and sluggish. Though I’ve spent most of my life in the constant yo-yo, flopping between fad diets and buffets, this was by far the heaviest I’d ever been. I was sharing clothes with my best friend who was, at the time, also in plus sizes.
You may ask, “How can a pair of tight fitting Levis make you doubt your self-worth?” Each extended notch in my belt reminded me of my failures — and made me reach for comfort foods.
The cycle continued until I had a shift in perspective. To lose weight, I had to lose my negative view of myself in order to encourage my success. Six months seems like an eternity ago as I look back on my accomplishments, but I know now the feelings of empowerment and self-worth come from within — and not even the most perfectly fitting pair of jeans can do that.
I never realized it before, but when I felt most vulnerable, I put myself down. How does that encourage success? Six months ago, I made the most important decision of my life — to openly embrace myself.
In exploring new ways to enjoy the things I liked in healthy alternatives, I found a deeper sense of self-control. Each day I practiced control was a day I felt empowered; each day I felt empowered, I loved myself more.
And the cycle continues.
It’s important to set goals, but it’s even more important to be your own best advocate in achieving those goals. Some days will be tougher than others. As we learned in primary school, we can’t always win, but keeping positive will help keep you on track.
Carry with you that tool for success. Remember, we are who we think we are. So go ahead and cheer yourself on! Tell yourself you’re worth it, you deserve it, you’re beautiful. Even if you don’t believe it now, re-program your mind to think it. Because when you think it, you feel it.
I’m six months into creating the balance for a healthy and happy life. In that process I’ve lost, celebrated, gained a few pounds back and lost a few more.
I’m no Heidi Klum, but each day I tell myself, “I’m attractive, healthy, fit, fun and happy.” And that mindset helps me sail through the day.
My love for pizza might never fade away, and maybe I don’t want it to. But I feel strong and healthy in my mind, even if I opt for a slice every once in a while.
If you’re thinking, “This is my year. It’s time for a change,” whatever that is, remember: work with yourself, for yourself.
If I’ve learned one thing, it’s to not kick yourself when you’re down. Build yourself up so you can tackle your dreams. Remember, the power lies within.
(Do you have a goal or advice you want to share? Let me know at sbonomi@soundpublishing.com.)
Happy New Year!
— Sophie Bonomi is a reporter for Kitsap News Group. Contact her at sbonomi@soundpublishing.com
