Another Week...

I remember years ago, when I was young & foolish, my older, wiser brother said to me: 'perspective is reality'. I disagreed with him then, but I have come to realize that he is right. Since today is his birthday, I just might tell him that.

Whatever perspective a person has shapes everything: their thoughts, feelings, beliefs, actions, attitude. Sometimes a simple perspective change (or paradigm shift, as Steven Covey calls it) can radically alter someone's life. I mean, we have all experienced the pain of trying to help someone change something that we clearly see is bad for them. But until they see it for themselves, our efforts will be futile.

I guess for me, the bottom line is that my perspective on the various aspects of my life: school, weight loss, relationships, dictates how I handle them. School is my number 1 priority. I have been feeling a tad bit overwhelmed by the amount of reading that I have to do, but I realized that I need to be reminding myself that I am capable of handling all of it, and that I am privileged to be in school, and grateful to be learning about what I love. When I take on that perspective, it's easier and less daunting.

Weight loss is also a top priority and my perspective on it is that it's not an option - gotta do what I gotta do to get it done, as quickly as possible. I mean, don't get me wrong, I'm not willing to starve myself or take any other drastic measures, but within reason, I need to do what it takes to get it done. It's a sacrifice. I spend a lot of time planning meals, meal times, shopping lists, cooking, and preparing for my week so that I can eat well. But my perspective tells me that there is no alternative. There is an abundance of food opportunities around work & school, and if I am not prepared with my own food, I will indulge. Not a good idea for my pocket or my waistline. So... I spend the time to prepare & plan.

I've worked pretty hard pretty consistently for over a year. September 12 was my weight loss anniversary. 42 lbs later, I have learned a lot. I am a better, more confident person. Although I am not any happier necessarily, I am happier with myself, if that makes sense. I have lost 10 inches from my waist, about 5 from my hips, and 4 from my thighs. (I'm speaking from memory, so those aren't exact numbers). And I have a sense of accomplishment that no one can take from me. Cuz nobody did it for me. People helped me, and I'm SO grateful for it. It's not even about wearing a smaller size or looking better in my clothes (although I am NOT mad at those things!) It's about taking control of my life, putting my priorities in order, and doing what it takes, day after day, to get it done.