Action Assignments For A New Life and Body:The Declaration of Change
“It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.”
Welcome to a music post. Before you start to read the post you must click the song to play so that it is your background music for the duration of the post.
In our first action assignment we talked about setting up and understanding goals. We also talked about what gets in your way, and what drives you into victory. The hardest part about achieving fat loss, beyond having the education, is making the change. People very easily fall into a routine to the point to where you can literally create a separation anxiety effect from not stopping at a fast food place. Displacement from not making your protein shake every morning. A crying fit if we make that late night dessert be a late night omelet instead.
Change is scary, paralyzing, and one of the hardest thing most people will never do.
Case Study: Kathryn
Kathryn came to me at 154 pounds, 5′7, and roughly 22% body fat. Kathryn was not morbidly obese. Kathryn did not have any health issues. Kathryn did not have a High School Reunion. Kathryn had a husband who loved her. Kathryn had a kid who adored her (you know before the awkward “mom, don’t phase”).Kathryn had a good job, house, and friends. Kathryn, by all standard accounts, had no reason to NEED to change. She had no reason to WANT to change that she considered logical. All she knew was that she didn’t like her body, she wanted it to be better, and she didn’t want to have to really work for it.
Caught that last line did ya? If you didn’t then please read it here again. She didn’t want to work for it.
In general, desperation is what brings about our biggest changes. I know that this is true for myself. I was desperate for a new job, a new life, better health, better self, and a better future for me and the people I love. Out of that desperation I acted, I did what I had to do, and I changed. Now, my job and my life are to help you change. Kathryn wasn’t in the grips of a brokedown palace. By all accounts her life appeared to be on a pretty happy and steady path. The problem is that not everyone always has a dramatic story, sometimes we just are slightly unhappy, a little unpleasant, and desire a small change. If that is the case, then you aren’t as likely to. The only way you are likely to change is if you see the desperation that lies inside of you. You have to see the future ahead.
Question…
What would happen to your car if you drove it with no oil, no coolant, and only refilled it once it stalled?
The first few times it would recharge back to life, but at a point, that car will break. Yes, you can repair the car but if you keep the same habit eventually it will be beyond repair, and you have to trade in for a new one. At a point the small, little, and minor problems might lead to a big one.
There is no trade on your life.
You can’t do this over. You get one shot and one shot only to make it what you can. The desperation should be every day. The time to change is now. Do you think that it can’t be that simple? That your changing moment in life can’t be while reading a blog post online? One of my life’s biggest changing moments came on a drive home, just like every other day, while listening to a song, and it just clicked. The only catch is, you have to be open to it, you talk yourself out of it, you have to dive in now, into what might seem to be an extreme and overly dramatic moment for yourself. Remember, drama doesn’t mean bad, it means a situation that is exciting or highly emotional.
What I need from you is the next step, the declaration of change. What I need from you is an answer to these two questions. This is not rhetorical, this is literal.
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
2-Who do you really want to become?
Think about that last part. Who do you really want to become? You can be whatever it is you want to be and you can play whatever role you want to play. All you have to do to get there, is change. I expect some answers, I expect a call to change.
Let your soul meet body.
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Jason Wells
Leigh I just found your site through Mike! That was one of the coolest posts I have ever read in my life.
1)What do you really need to change to make this work?
Time. I need to get serious about this and devote my time to it.
2)Who do you really want to become?
I want to become strong and lean.
September 30th, 2008 at 12:00 amI want girls to dig me more!
I want to feel like I can do things others can’t (not in a better than way) with my body. I am 35 years old and I have never been more inspired. It is as if all the pieces are falling together, I just know it. I was supposed to be out tonight but I got dissed, checked my email, came here and read this post.Thnx Leigh!
Missy
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
September 30th, 2008 at 6:36 amI need to change my mindset/way of thinking. I am that person who if I start weighing/tracking and then accidentally eat something that I did not weigh, all my crazy bells go off at once and I either 1)say forget it and never track again or 2) freak out and won’t eat for a day. I need balance and want to be like “Jen” in the MRM who “no longer has issues with food”.
2) Who do you really want to become?
The best I can be. I want to be free from all the worry about my body and every dang morsel that goes into it. I want to be a fun person who can go to a restaurant and order something rather than me now who goes and just gets unsweet tea because “I don’t eat any of that”. I want to become strong, fit, healthy and a beacon of hope to others who have been where I am and know they can overcome.
Kris
Fantastic post Leigh. Are these going to make you eligible for the contest?
(1) What do you really need to change to make this work?
My ability to be disappointed. If things don’t go the way I hope then I have moments where I say forget.
(2) Who do you really want to become?
I want to become more aware of the good and tune out the bad. More carefree.
September 30th, 2008 at 9:53 amMatt
Who does this song?!
September 30th, 2008 at 10:54 amNatalie
1-What do you really need to change to make this work? I need to behave myself better during the weekends and have 1 cheat meal instead of a cheat weekend.
2-Who do you really want to become? I want to become the most confident person I know!
September 30th, 2008 at 11:14 amDanielle
Matt, it’s by Telepopmusik and it’s called Breathe. They’re from France and there’s lots of info on them on the web if you do a search.
Leigh, cheers! You do such good work. xo
September 30th, 2008 at 11:30 amMatt
Thanks Danielle!
September 30th, 2008 at 11:44 amMelissa
Leigh, all I can say is wow, thank you! I could be Kathyrn and you spoke to EXCATLY what my “problem” is with so many things, especially weight loss! I can’t begin to tell you how powerful that was, I am going to read it a few more times before I answer the two questions. Powerful, powerful stuff that NOBODY else is talking about, you are speaking directly to me (and I suspect many other people) who are in the same situation!
You ROCK!
September 30th, 2008 at 11:56 amCandice
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
I needed a change in mindset before. I needed to learn how to feed and take care of the only body I’ll ever get, that no matter where I go I have to live in for the rest of my life all by myself. That was before and what I need now is just the courage to see this to the end of this level, and the willpower to stay there and not go off course, and then work upward from there.
2-Who do you really want to become?
September 30th, 2008 at 12:04 pmI’m not going to answer this basically because if I had an answer for that I’d be doing it. But what I will say is that I wish growing up that someone would have asked me, “Who do you really want to become?” instead of “What do you want to be when you grow up?”.
Jason Wells
I wanted to say that the inspiration has not left me and today has been a great start towards change. I did a workout I never would have done before and went to the park alone and hung out with myself. Thanks Leigh!
September 30th, 2008 at 12:14 pmJen
I Will trust myself to make this work.
I want to become a better and more carefree self. I want to become a person who can trust their mind and body.
Thank you Leigh.
September 30th, 2008 at 2:23 pmMelissa
I can’t say enough how much this article speaks to me! I NEVER thought about it this way…
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
September 30th, 2008 at 4:31 pmI need to want it, I need to BELIEVE I can do it, I need to see results, I need to feel results, I need to start so I can start to feel the way I did when I was at my goal weight/size and had met my physical goals. I felt so powerful, sexy, invincible…I need to feel that again.
2-Who do you really want to become?
I really want to be a better version of me. A smaller, stronger, fitter, sexier, healthier, more fun, less stressed, version of me. I want to just be better…I know I am better than I am right now, I want to be that person I know, and everyone else knows I can be. I want to be improved.
Craig
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
Change my desire to action.
2-Who do you really want to become?
The me I know is in there. The one that urges the change.
September 30th, 2008 at 6:26 pmLex
I need to change my habits. I have a habit of checking my email while I’m working. I have a habit of turning to the computer after every paragraph I read. I have a habit of blowing off the gym if I’m at work 1/2 later than usual or if I had a “hard” day. I have a habit of getting stuck in front of the TV for hours on end. I’m unorganized in many ways that must change as well.
I want to become that person I used to be – the one that is in great shape and can have some fun. I want to be the confident woman that the younger women look up to. I want to become the woman I know I can be – lean, fun, successful and giving.
September 30th, 2008 at 7:56 pmLisa
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
I need to developing the habit of planning ahead. Both my workouts and making sure I have good food available. My life has become busier lately and I don’t have the luxury of time to figure it out on the fly anymore.
2-Who do you really want to become?
A slightly leaner version of myself that looks the best she has ever looked in her adult life. Someone who can do any activity I want because I am fit and healthy.
September 30th, 2008 at 8:32 pmRachel
My declaration of change:
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
I also need to change my mindset. I need to believe in the science and to understand that I’m not that 1% that it just doesn’t work for. It will work, I need to believe in MYSELF.
2-Who do you really want to become?
September 30th, 2008 at 10:03 pmA “better” version of me. Happier, healthier, and to be more inspired in my everday life.
Anna
1. Determination – get out of the snacking/junk food habit.
September 30th, 2008 at 10:04 pm2. A fit, happy person who works in the health industry and is respected for her knowledge. I want to look like a person who works out (I have, for years, but I don’t think it really shows).
Leigh Peele
Jason-Wow, thank you. That was 100% the purpose of the post and if I achieved that with just one person, it was worth it.
Missy-You are pretty good you
Kris-I don’t know…will they?
September 30th, 2008 at 10:41 pmLeigh Peele
Natalie-try making your “cheat meal” double portions of your normal meal next time and see if that helps from you going so overboard next time.
Melissa-Thank you for such enthusiasm.
September 30th, 2008 at 10:48 pmLeigh Peele
Candice-really enjoyed reading that, thanks.
Jason-Ha keep it up!
Jen-I hope the help earlier went well for you. Just around that corner!
September 30th, 2008 at 10:50 pmLeigh Peele
Melissa-I love, love the use of the word “improved”.
Craig-If you left that, its in there.
Lex-We are all guilty of those things, I know I can be. Do everything you can to make this a reward, to make the gym your sanctuary, to make healthy eating a pleasure. Find away to make healthy “habits” then, if need, tweak them to become fat loss ones. Just one step at a time.
*Tries not to multi task checking email*
September 30th, 2008 at 10:55 pmLeigh Peele
Lisa-I am seeing an organizing trend…
Rachel-ah Rachel I feel the passion in that one, I really do.
Anna-What are those junk foods?
September 30th, 2008 at 10:57 pmAnna
Junk foods = restaurant foods that I don’t need. Co-workers invite me out for lunch, people’s birthdays, going out for dinner with my boyfriend. I hate to say no to my coworkers, but it’s getting to be a bit much. Thai stirfries with coconut milk are my weakness.
September 30th, 2008 at 11:13 pmWhen I went on vacation this summer, I wanted to try all of the different cuisine, let things slide, had whatever I wanted at each restaurant, including dessert, and I stayed in that habit after I got home. Now it’s time to get back on track.
I feel like you pulled those words out of me, Leigh. Feels good! Thanks!
Sarah
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
I need to silence the voice inside of me that has been misleading me, misguiding me, betraying me and killing my spirit and ultimately my body.
2-Who do you really want to become?
September 30th, 2008 at 11:18 pmStrong. Inside and out. I want to love myself more than a number on a scale and more than a pair of skinny jeans. I want to be a fitness model…literally and figuratively.
Julie
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
I do have the time to committ to this, I just need direction and the responsibility of reporting my actions to others. So I can put me on the list as the first priority rather than putting my family as first with my schedule always being accomodating to all others.
2-Who do you really want to become?
September 30th, 2008 at 11:18 pmA stronger, leaner, sexier, more confident me… a success!
Mari
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
I really need to change the way I look at dieting and fat loss, in general. I think that I think of it as an ongoing process – something that I’ll have to do for the rest of my life. I think this is where I get overwhelmed – I am overthinking the process. But in one of the first podcasts that I downloaded from iTunes, you said that dieting, and fat loss, should not be something you do all your life. That it’s something you should just do and get it over with so that you can live. I’m sure that you said it much better – I’m just going from my memory. : )
2-Who do you really want to become?
September 30th, 2008 at 11:39 pmI want to become someone who lives in the moment. I am usually living in the past, especially when I have actually lost weight and succeeded (even if for a short time), and planning for the future. Sometimes, I fear that in reminiscing about the past and daydreaming about the future, I am letting life pass me by. Physically, I want to be an active, energetic, and fit person.
Forest
What do you really need to change to make this work?
Overcome my fear of failure. Know that I can change and succeed.
2-Who do you really want to become?
A fit hippy chick beach jogging babe.
September 30th, 2008 at 11:50 pmPaula
What do you really need to change to make this work?
No more deaths in the family or natural disasters :p – the last two months have been major derails in terms of overall weight loss and progress. I need to come up a with a better plan for staying focused on the goals when life gives me a major bump in the road.
Who do you really want to become???
October 1st, 2008 at 12:54 amI’ve got it in my head that I’m supposed to write how I overcame and changed the things that have challenged me in my life. I do that to some extent now, but I keep thinking there’s more I need to do with this.
Pauline
1. What do you really need to change to make this work?
Defining realistic and healthy goals for my particular body and camaraderie in working toward my goals. I’m down to the last stubborn fat hanging on and want to get it off but wonder if I can or even if I need to. I know I can do whatever it takes once my goals are clear.
2. Who do you really want to become?
I’m not shooting for figure or bodybuilding competitions or anything. I just think muscle is much more beautiful than fat! I want to be the most beautiful 50 year old I can be! I have a year to do it!!
October 1st, 2008 at 1:01 amjo
1) Actually, I need either flexibility or forgiveness–I’m not quite sure which and neither of those seem to address the real issue. I tend to have all-or-nothing thinking. I’m either perfectly perfect in diet, exercise, etc or I am a complete and utter failure. There is no in-between. A small setback is not a small setback that can be corrected and moved on from on the next meal or workout. And it isn’t even like, “oh geez–I ate too many calories”, it’s like “oh geez, I said I’d work out at 5 pm and it’s 5:30 and i’ve got so much to do and oh christ it’s all ruined”.
It’s the not realizing that I can go out with my friends and have a beer and work it into whatever my weight loss plan is and STILL lose and instead, punish myself for having one beer and the punishment is completely de-railing myself to make SURE that I fail. And it isn’t that I seem to have setbacks all the time. It’s just that when I do, they become VERY LONG setbacks and EVERYTHING gets put though the grinder.
It is a completley nonsensical thought process (that I also fine infuriating) so I hope I make sense. :/
2) Well, I’m not going to lie and say the first reason is the most shallow: I want to feel like I’m sexy and I want my husband to think I’m sexy. My husband DOES think I’m sexy but I’d like the self-confidence to be secure and KNOW that my husband not only does have, but SHOULD have the hots for me.
Ok, I’ll be completely honest: I still wish I could have a lean, long, sinewy look to my legs. I don’t mean “skinny fat”. I mean “obvious muscle definition” but miles long. But let’s get serious–I’m five freakin’ feet tall with short limbs. (ok 4′11″ and a half but I round up). Ain’t NOTHING going to look long on me. I gotta learn to love the calves that genetics gave me. It’s the same thing as curly headed folks wish they had straight hair. It isn’t going to ever happen, but that doesn’t make wanting it any less.
Beyond the superficial, I want to be the best boxer I can be. I want to be able to be fit enough and strong enough to get into the ring just one time on an amateur level (because I have enough brains to realize that I might not like boxing so much after the first time somebody rings my bell righteously) and at the very least it could be said that I held my own for an admirable amount of time before getting beat into a pulp instead of being knocked out in the first 10 seconds.
I want to be the athlete that I always have admired but have forever said I could not be. Sure, in my life I’ve dabbled in competitve diving, skating, triathalons, roller derby and now boxing–but I’ve felt like a fraud. I’m at the age where I know that my physical skills will always be mediocere/middle of the pack–but I want to be at the best level I can be for myself. I want to say that I’m an athlete without sounding like that is the most ridiculous thing that has ever come out of my mouth about myself.
It’s a training issue, but I can see where it is a self-esteem issue as well.
I see myself as a muscular, strong, fast, hot version of me. Even in my younger years, I wam sure that I was hotter than I am currently–but I was more on the end of the sorta-hot skinny-fat. I want to look strong and and athletic and actually BE as strong and as athletic as I look. I’ve got too many curves (and I mean more a waist-hip ratio even in my developing years when I was 95 pounds.
Maybe the best way to say it is: I still want to be that 6′ tall Navy Seal that my soul seems to be but has somehow, and quite infuriatingly, found itself in a in a 5′ tall female body.
October 1st, 2008 at 1:24 amSarah J
1 – I need some accountability, even if only to myself. I need to trust myself and keep the promises I make to eat right and exercise. I also need to overcome my fear of being successful and end the self sabotage.
2 – I want to become a confident and successful person. I want to get rid of the last 15 pounds once and for all so I can stop thinking about it. I want to be a positive role model for my twin daughters and I want to have achieved my fat loss goals so they don’t grow up with a mother who is constantly dieting and unhappy with how she looks. I can’t even remember a time when my body was not an issue for me….I just want to stop thinking about it so I can live my life.
October 1st, 2008 at 1:53 amDiana
1. What do you really need to change to make it work? Maybe I’m taking this too literally but I need some paper and a pencil. (Assuming we’re talking about the short term goal we identified earlier.)
I tend to work alone–ie I’m a lurker, I log on my computer rather than a forum, rarely post but am frequently taking in a lot of information. I’ve been participating in the goal setting exercises but not publicly. Maybe the change I need to make is to be more publicly accountable, not to mention get the support of others. So here I am.
2. Who do you really want to become? In a lot of ways I’m a lot like Kathryn in your example although I’m morbidly obese and do have health concerns. My weight hasn’t stopped me from having a happy marriage (26 years this January) or being a mom, having a career I like, exercising, etc. I like me. I like me today. I would like to still be all the things I am today that are important minus 100 lbs or so. I don’t want to end up being someone who wasn’t willing to work for it.
Diana
October 1st, 2008 at 2:13 amIysis
The post is AWESOME. That said to the questions
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
I need to change my eating habits, it is as simple as that. All the work I am putting in is sueless if I do not “fuel up” correctly.
2-Who do you really want to become?
I want to be come someone my children can be proud of when they see how hard work pays off. I want to be stronger and leaner. I want to be able to accomplish any physical feat I face. I want the warrior with in to match the outside.
October 1st, 2008 at 3:08 amIvana
1. my attitude towards problems and the way I solve them
October 1st, 2008 at 5:49 am2. a happy person, not obsessed with what I have eaten but focused on life and living, not food and weight.
shari
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
TO MAKE THIS WORK I NEED TO WRITE DOWN EVERYTHING EATING, EXCERSISE, WEIGHT ETC.
I ALREADY HAVE THE SUPPORT OF MY HUSBAND WHICH IS GREAT.
2-Who do you really want to become?
THAT MOM THAT PEOPLE LOOK AT AND RESPECT FOR THE WAY SHE TAKES CARE OF HERSELF AND HER FAMILY. I ALSO HAVE TO ADD THAT I WANT TO LOOK SMOKIN ON MY 30TH B-DAY!
October 1st, 2008 at 6:05 amHugo
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
I need someone more knowledgeable than me to set up a plan that meets my motivation. I need someone who can look at what I’ve tried and show me where I’ve failed, where I’ve just missed the mark, and where I’ve done well for myself. I need someone who can lead me on the right path. Someone to point the way. Someone to learn lifelong lessons from. A mentor.
2-Who do you really want to become?
I want to become a better father. The father who sets a healthy example for his kids. The father whose kids look at him as not only a leader, mentor, and friend but as a true role model for how to live their lives. The father you see playing with his kids at the playground and not just watching from the bench off to the side. The father that gets his kids motivated to do their best, try a little harder, and never give up — even when things seem their most impossible.
I want to become a better husband. The husband who is strong enough to sweep his wife off her feet and carry her to the bedroom rather than just dreaming about it. The husband who can plan, cook, and serve a healthy meal to her, rather than being waited on. A husband who will be healthy and strong enough to take care of his wife long into the future as they grow old together.
I want to be the father/husband that lives his life not only for his wife and kids but for himself as well. Who takes care of himself in a manner that will allow him to be around for a very long time. The man they can count on and rely on to be there in good times and bad — for a long time to come. The person who loves life as much as he loves his family and so much of it rubs off on them.
I want to be a healthy, happy person.
October 1st, 2008 at 6:11 amRita
1. What do I need to change.
The ability to keep going even when my results are not perfect. I need to keep fighting until I reach my goal and keep going. I need to not give up when I don’t see immediate results to my actions.
2. Who do I want to become…
October 1st, 2008 at 6:45 amI want my outside to reflect the person I see on the inside. I want to look in the mirror and see a strong, determined, healthy, independent mother of 4. I want to be proud to have accomplished something. I want my children to see they can do and become anything they dream of with some hard work and determination. I want to become the complete person I was intended to be.
Leigh
1. What do you really need to change in order to make this work?
October 1st, 2008 at 6:53 amI need to let go of the idea of ‘perfection’, which is of course, illusive. I need to embrace and realize my body’s capabilitites instead of focusing on its weaknesses (fat knees, short legs, no calf definition, cellulite, etc….) I already wrok out and eat well overall but would like to ramp it up a bit.
2. Who do you really want to become?
Me, peaceful and happy without obsessing and feeling inadequate, because logically, I know I am far from it!
Patricia
1 – What do you really need to change to make this work?
Eating habits, portion sizes. That’s it. Easy, right?
And, of course, a workout plan. A daily routine. Routine is important. Makes it easier to get your ass up and go
for it.
So the whole thing is about getting used to a different, better, healthier but also nice, tasty, moving lifestyle.
2 – Who do you really want to become?
October 1st, 2008 at 7:00 amI don’t want to become just thin(ner). I want to be more healthy, sporty, fitter.
Jessica
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
I need to change my mindset. I need to be ready to do what will work NOW, today instead of dwelling on what used to work and feeling sorry for myself b/c that doesn’t work anymore. I need to change my habits and be willing to do WHATEVER it takes to get what I want.
2-Who do you really want to become?I want to become the best ME possible. I don’t want to be anyone else. I like who I am, I just need to improve on that. I want to be the person who overcomes obstacles and doesn’t slip back into old habits. I want to be the “After” picture that you always see on tv. I want to find out if my hormones and metabolism are in control or if I am. I want to be someone who my kids can be proud of b/c I live what I believe. I say I believe in a healthy lifestyle but I don’t always live it! I want to live it!
October 1st, 2008 at 7:20 amHeather
What do I need to change? Without divulging too much personal history, I need to squash that quiet inner voice that I think sabotages me from time to time. I need accountability to another professional. As a trainer, I tend to give to everyone else and leave nothing for myself at the end of the day. I need to change and put myself on my own priority list.
Who do I want to become? That is an easy one, I want to be the strongest, balanced and inspiring mom I can become. I want to be the best example for my beautiful 3 boys and for all of my clients, family, and friends. If I can’t do this, how can I possibly show anyone else how to?
October 1st, 2008 at 7:33 amJim
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
I need to keep my focus on the weekends like I do all week. Every weekend, I overeat and drink too much. (Thanks for the beer goggles warning Leigh).
2-Who do you really want to become?
I want to become a dedicated, strong ___________ (Fill in the blank, Husband, father, employee, friend). I want to inspire others to be the best they can be by seeing what I’m doing. I don’t want to be the ‘BIG’ guy anymore. I’ve been him for 45 years now, I’m ready…
October 1st, 2008 at 8:00 amLisa
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
I need STRICT Training with educated support/guidance. I’ve been working really hard to make the right choices for myself, have seen a difference in my appearance but not enough. I consider myself my own guinea pig, I love to research ways to improve my health from the inside out, my body tells me when I’m wrong – that’s for sure! I am a small framed 4′11″ female weighing in at 114 pounds. I am frustrated with the little success & struggling with cellulite on my legs. Just because I have four children doesn’t me I have to show it!
2-Who do you really want to become?
October 1st, 2008 at 8:17 amI want to be come a better ME! To help others through my own experiences, challenges, and success. I want to be a positive role model to those who need HOPE.
Sue
I’ve been sitting here pondering these two questions, trying to come up with something that will make the difference instead of the same cookie-cutter answer. Well here goes my heartfelt thoughts on me….
1-What do you really need to change to make this work? Honestly, I’m not sure. I measure, weigh, & calorie count everything that I eat. I workout 4-5x a week alternating strength days & doing some cardio everyday. I eat TONS of fruits & veggies along with my lean meats. What do I need to change? Good question. Something is not jiving or my body just plain hates me. I need to achieve that balance. That balance of good nutrition & weight loss.
2-Who do you really want to become? This one is not quite as difficult to respond to. I want to become someone who loves who they are & is comfortable in their own skin. As of right now, I’m not even close. My self image is in the negative numbers & that’s not where I want to be. I think if I had a better self image, I’d be happier with who I am & how I look. I’m always wishing to look better ignoring the fact that I actually feel better from all the things that I am doing right. My biggest demon is the scale. That demon runs my life some days. I like that I do feel better, but I want the weight to come off so that I have a visual to the world around me that I am taking care of myself. Sometimes we all just need that positive reinforcement.
For better or worse, there you have it.
October 1st, 2008 at 8:45 amJessica
1. I need to get rid of that freakin’ voice in my head that always says “you can’t do this”
2. I want to become the hot, fit mama I KNOW I can be if I could just bust that annoying voice from #1 (specifically 16% bodyfat instead of 25-ish).
October 1st, 2008 at 9:00 amNic
Hey Leigh,
I need this challenge, here is why:
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
I need to change my perception of myself what I am REALLY capable of and not what I believe to be doomed to be. I have suffered low self-esteem issues for as long as I can remember and I rarely felt positive about myself or my accomplishments. I know this view is holding me back from the life I could lead. I want to start living again fully.
2-Who do you really want to become?
I want to become the REAL me. The vibrant positive energy beaming confident beautiful person that I know is locked inside of me. I want to let her out. Let her shine and attract like-minded people to share her life with.
October 1st, 2008 at 9:14 amTina
What do you really need to change to make this work?
My mindset regarding nutrition. I too am like Kathryn; not overweight, healthy, a husband that loves me the way I am, children and grandchildren that I am crazy about. It is so very easy for me to slip on the meals when I really have no “weight” to lose. I do have “fat” to lose. I want to slip on my jeans and not encounter the muffin tops. I want to sit in my chair at work and not feel the rolls over my waistband….but do I want it bad enough? Bad enough to change? Where is my desperation?
What do you really want to become?
October 1st, 2008 at 9:16 amStrong and healthy well into my 90’s. Sure, I want to look sexy hot now but more importantly I want to be strong and healthy when I enter old age. I want to be able to keep doing for myself. I always want to walk unassisted and without getting winded. I want my great grandchildren to look at me and think, wow, I hope I’m in as good as shape as great grandma is when I’m her age. I want to mow my own lawn and shovel my own snow when I’m old. I don’t want to be weak and have to rely on others every day. I always want to be me; not just a shell of the way I used to be.
Kim
What do you really need to change to make this work?
- My relationship with food, I need to stop feeling guilty when I have a cheat meal. I know cheat meals are there for a reason but why don’t I feel good after eating it??
Who do you really want to become?
- A stronger more confident woman!
October 1st, 2008 at 10:02 amMandie
Wow! What an inspiring post! It really had me thinking, for quite some time. I actually took my thoughts to the gym with me to find the answers I needed. Thank you for it…it made me dig deeper than I have in a LONG time!!!
What do you really need to change to make this work?
I need to change my frame of mind in 2 areas. When I indulge in something, I must STOP at that, and not let it overtake me for a day, two days, a week, two weeks. I need to stop sabotaging myself, I’m miserable and defeated when I feel I’ve failed like that. The second part is that I need to get past the feeling that I’m ALWAYS going to be stuck here at this plateau. I have come a long way, and one day I WILL be at my goal, and I must visualize myself that I will be there instead of dwelling on the fact that I’m STUCK here. I’m NOT a failure…I’m NOT a failure!
Who do you really want to become?
I want to inspire others… my husband, my Mom, my Dad, my kids, my co-workers, my best friends…. I want to be the one that was always fat, but worked my butt off, made the RIGHT choices, habits and CHANGED. I want to be healthy, STRONG, confident, happy, respectful, and definitely SEXY!
October 1st, 2008 at 10:37 amAnne
With tears rolling down my cheeks, my stomache turns as I realize just how desparate I am! Wow, reading that post was difficult for me because I am at a point in my life where I am desparate for some major change! So desparte I found myself in a plastic surgeon’s office getting an estimate of the cost to “fix” my problems. I decided against the lipo and decided to give this a go the healthy way with diet and exercise. I am not obese, at least not for the past 4 years, I have dropped 16 sizes… but for 4 years I have been stuck and I still need to loose more fat, it is so frustrating! It seems whatever I try fails and that is what brings me to question #1.
What I need to change to make this work is stop being afraid of success. I know what I want, but I always do something to sabatoge my success. This applies to all areas of my life. I don’t know why I do it and sometimes I trap myself into this failure without even realizing it. I need to tell myself (an believe it) that it is okay for me to succeed… I can go the distance… I can do it!
Who do I really want to become? A successful person that is known to overcome the odds and make something of myself. I want people to look at me and see their own challenges as something they too can conquer. I also want to become a person who is totally HAPPY with myself. No more focusing on all the flaws… except if it is a fat flaw but not dwell on it but fix it! Like my legs, you know that back part of the leg just under the butt? I am infatuated with that area… I want to smooth out that area so I can wear a bathsuit and feel confident… and I would love to strut some Daisy Dukes and look just as good… then I could walk around with my boombox playing – Come on baby, kick them Daisy’s! – that last part is just a joke, I have an iPod. LOL!
Thanks Leigh for all you do. I love your encouraging words!
October 1st, 2008 at 12:03 pmETANA FINKLER
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
I have 2 inner voices: I would like my inner voice of “failure/doubt/insecure” voice to leave.. to quiet down Go Away already!!! … and my “Just Do It” action voice to grow stronger and more high-spirited and playful and ornery. I want the “gym to call me like a sanctuary,” that was such an inspiring image, Leigh. What I have learned from hitting the macros in REPAIR is that taking away the emotions, and just having the facts, the science, and the action creates a calm path to success.
2-Who do you really want to become?
I want to be a catalyst to others to empower them to bring their potential into action and existence, in whatever arena I encounter them; art, health, diet, adventure, courage, independence… I want to become stronger every day as I age through my 60s and beyond, so my physical body doesn’t limit my passionate zestful spirit for life. I do not want “I am chubby I can’t do that; I am chubby I hide from people” to stop me any more. I am just fed up with that ridiculous story. I want to become my powerful self that is already here.
October 1st, 2008 at 12:05 pmKaren
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
My attitude toward myself. I need to keep telling myself every day that I CAN do this (which I’ve been working on the last couple of months) and the only person stopping me from reaching my goals is me. I can do this, I deserve to do this, I NEED to do this for myself.
2-Who do you really want to become?
October 1st, 2008 at 12:09 pmI want to become a better, more improved, stronger version of myself and help others do the same thing. I want to be more positive overall and am working toward this goal already.
Damon
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
I have to accept that I cannot have it all. If I’m going to meet certain goals, certain other things have to be sacrificed. Life isn’t perfect and some of us – most of us – can’t have it all. I need to affirm that I really want something and decide I can make the changes to get there, rather than trying hard part of the time and sabotaging myself the rest of the time.
2-Who do you really want to become?
October 1st, 2008 at 12:49 pmI want to be someone who likes myself. That might sound harsh, but even as a competitive athlete for 20+ years, I have awakened one day and been happy with my body. My fitness has been great at times, at least for my competitions. But, I need to be someone who likes himself, likes his body, likes his fitness, and feels worthy of being liked. It’s stupid that I tie my “likability” to those traits, but that’s where I’ve been. I want to spend one day, and then many more, thinking about the fact that I’m where I want to be, and what do I need to do to maintain that.
Teresa
1 – What do you really need to change to make this work?
October 1st, 2008 at 4:27 pmMy habits. So much of what I do and eat is habitual. I just need to replace old habits with new fatbusting habits. I don’t “need” coffee with creamer every morning – that’s just habit – completely unnecessary. I need to put on my big girl panties and just make the damn changes already!!
2 – Who do you really want to become?
I don’t want to become anyone. I dig me. I want to stay me, but I want to be the best version of me that is possible. I want other people to see me and want to be me!!
meredith
what do you really need to change to make this work?
To make this work, I need to be confident in myself and commit to living life now as opposed to when i have x, y, or z accomplished. I need to change my temporary “fixes” into springboards for long-term lifestyle changes. To make this work, I need to change so that i am seeking balance. Over the past year and a half, I successfully lost weight, only to regain it and then some, again and again. I regained because I was too all or nothing, both when “on” and “off” the diet. Initially, dieting helped me with binge-eating, yet later, the cycles of restriction led to more frequent and longer binge episodes.
who do you really want to become? i want to become a happy and self-confident person who can laugh instead of feeling self-conscious and insecure. I want to become perhaps a friend but not a dependent to food. I have been successful in life and want to act and be that way!
October 1st, 2008 at 4:39 pmElizabeth
1 – What do you really need to change to make this work?
I need to get over myself. I need to get over my fear of failure, get over my embarrassment of doing things I’m not good at, get over my dread of leaving my comfort zone. I need to be willing to be a clueless beginner, to try new things even if I look like a total dork when I first start. I need to be ok with not excelling at everything I do, so I can stop avoiding the areas where I don’t (and may never) excel.
2-Who do you really want to become?
I want to become a strong healthy courageous woman who faces her fears and limitations head on, and refuses to let them stand in the way of the life that she wants.
October 1st, 2008 at 7:33 pmVicky
1. What do you really need to change to make this work?
October 1st, 2008 at 7:56 pmI need to change my attitude about myself and my capabilities. It was so much easier when I was younger and I have taken that for granted. A person can read and read about the proper things to eat, the best exercise program, and things you should avoid but if their mindset is not ready to implement all that knowledge well it doesn’t do any good. I have acquired knowledge but failed to act and this is where I have gone wrong in the past. It is easy to make excuses for what you don’t do. I’m finished with excuses.
2. Who do you really want to become?
I want to become the “me” I can be proud of who was not afraid of the challenges to live healthy. I want to be a mother that her children look up to and want to model. I want to prove to myself that my former husband can not tear me down anymore.
jessica
1-What do you really need to change to make this work? I need sit down and take the time to make everything work – develop a written plan. Sometimes I feel like I have so many things I need to do in one week, that some of it doesn’t get done if I don’t pencil it in.
2-Who do you really want to become? A lean, strong Ironman. I want to constantly challenge myself and push myself to the next level.
October 1st, 2008 at 9:35 pmLisa
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
To make this change real, I need strict training and guidance to keep me focused on my goals one at a time (I catch myself multi-tasking a lot). I am frustrated with my hard work and little payoff, I need to be pushed over the edge to win the battle once and for all – I am so close yet feel so far from my ultimate goal of being tight and toned.
2-Who do you really want to become?
October 2nd, 2008 at 8:17 amIt would like to become a better ME, a person that can be a role model & coach to HELP others. My heartfelt desire is to see people smile
Ruben
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
I don’t think I need to change anything for this to “work” But I do believe that maybe I could tighten up and explore further elements to fine tune it and really move it ahead full blast.
2-Who do you really want to become?
I want the full transformation. I’ve worked my way from morbidly obese all the way down to having a high end of the spectrum body fat level.
I want to be able to help people do the same thing that I’ve done. I want to help prevent people from getting to where I was in the first place.
I want to be a positive example. A Mentor
October 2nd, 2008 at 1:04 pmSinead
Wow. What an amazing post and an incredible response. I’ve been reading through everyone’s responses, and I think that they have inspired me even more!
So mine…
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
At the moment, I need time. I have to be in a place where my dr gives me the ok to get back to weight loss, which will happen as soon as this little bambino comes. In the meantime, I need to continue to make good choices about eating so that I am eating the best foods possible while I’m waiting.
2-Who do you really want to become?
October 2nd, 2008 at 2:02 pmI want to become the me that is inside this big ‘ol fat suit that I’ve been lugging around. You know, I’ve always known that I’m overweight (at least I have for as long as I’ve been overweight), but I never thought that I looked as bad as I could. For some reason the me that I see in the mirror doesn’t look half as bad as the me that I see reflected back in pictures. What I want is for the me that I see in the mirror and in pictures to be a me that I can be proud of. I want to be as physically healthy as possible so that my poor joints don’t have to work so hard and so that maybe I don’t need so much medication to moderate my arthritis. I want to be the me that has lots of energy to play with my kiddos. I want to be the me that is a good example for my girls–both in the way that I eat and the way that I take care of myself. If I don’t take care of myself, how will they ever learn? What chance will they have? Surely I can do this for them, too. My husband loves me as I am–fat or skinny. I’d like to give him the wife that he deserves, and maybe in the meantime he’d work on taking better care of himself, too. Most of all, I want to take advantage of this gift of life and live it to the fullest for every second that I have. I don’t want life to pass me by because I’ve let myself get too fat to jump right into the deep end!
Amanda
What do I need to make this work? I think the biggest thing is overcoming the idea that I “deserve” food. Not in a survival sense, but in the sense that every day or week something SO special and unique is going on that I can just have a little bit of …. you know, just a bite. I got a new job, I feel like I’m getting a cold and need Grandma-comfort food….always something.
Who do I want to become? I want to BE the trophy wife
More importantly, I want to be “moderate”. To be able eat and exercise moderately to create a healthy lifestyle that will serve me long into the future.
October 2nd, 2008 at 11:06 pmCarol
1. Planning. I need to make time each day or each week to plan my nutrition. When I have this in the place the rest is easy.
October 3rd, 2008 at 3:53 pm2. I don’t want the body of a 25 year old (OK… well I do really but..) I want to be the absolutely BEST example of a fabulous 45 year old. The best I can be.
Gretchen
1. One thing I need is oddly enough to full heartedly believe I can get there. I know I can but there is still that voice of negative and I have been stuck at 184 for a month now. I am unwilling to give up, but I try and try and still get nothing to little. I used to be in great shape, I need to truly believe I can be again. I don’t care how many rings of hell I have to crawl through to get there. It is possible right, its not too late? It has to be, it can’t be too late.
2. I want to be confidant again, and feel sexy sometimes. I want to get dressed to look good and not hide myself. I want to enter this chaotic segment of my life and come out the other end better, stronger, happier, healthier for myself and to set a better example for my son.
October 3rd, 2008 at 10:04 pmCheryl
What do I need to make this work?
Direction, willpower, a plan.
Who do I want to become?
October 3rd, 2008 at 10:21 pmA smaller, more fit person that has a routine. The woman that makes other women jealous.
Lil
What do I need to make this work?
Apart from asking Leigh to sit on my shoulder and whisper to me throughtout the day..I have to imagine that soothing voice reassuring me that I HAVE the conviction to see the change thru to its end. Not to give up early, not to put too much in my mouth, not to cheat on the exercise….
Who do I want to become?
A slimmmer more confident me. Someone who can more easily say NO: NO to excess food, NO to rubbish foods, NO to slacking off on the couch, NO to things that dont support my journey.
October 4th, 2008 at 2:53 amemily
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
October 4th, 2008 at 1:10 pmI need the challenge. I have tried so many different ways to lose weight in the past that I am close to giving up. I need someone to tell me when and what to eat until I learn how to eat right again.
2-Who do you really want to become?
I want to become the healthiest person I can become. I want to become confident in my own skin and be able to enjoy a compliment given to me, not second guess their intention. I want to be around for my family as long as I can. I want to become the new me and stay in control of my weight for the rest of my life.
Jordan
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
I need a better, smarter effort to lose weight. Over the last several months, I’ve experimented with different ways to eat less: eating two meals a day, one plate per meal a la the “No S Diet,” alternating low calorie days and high calorie days (okay, very high calorie days unfortunately!) eating more slowly, etc. I’ll lose a few pounds here and there, and that’s it. So I’m not completely lazy. I have put in some effort, but it just hasn’t been very effective. I need a good plan, and then I need to do the plan, and follow it consistently until I lose the 70-80 lbs. that I absolutely have to lose to be happy with my body. I need to work harder, but I need to work smarter, too. And resist temptation. It’s so strange, because I’m very intelligent, and I fully comprehend that I shouldn’t eat all these crappy foods, but I just can’t bring myself to do it. It’s so frustrating. I need to stop procrastinating and get this done NOW.
2-Who do you really want to become?
October 4th, 2008 at 4:17 pmSomeone who is comfortable in my own skin, who looks good in the mirror, who is happy in general, who has a girlfriend, more financially independent, who is good to other people, and who lives life to the fullest. I’m in a pretty bad situation in my life right now, and losing this weight is the first big step I want to take to improve my life. Not just improve my body, but to improve all areas of my life. I think this will boost my confidence and self-esteem, which will allow me to make other improvements as well.
Mike
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
There’s knowledge that I’m missing which will allow me to take my progress to the next level, and I crave it!
2-Who do you really want to become?
October 5th, 2008 at 11:23 pmI want to become the inspiration (and trainer, coach, etc.) for other people!
Amber
1- I need to really commit to my goals. I feel like I am so much like Karen, so I need to find my inspiration and believe that I deserve better.
2- I want to be a figure competitor!
This was such a greaat post Leigh! Thanks so much!
October 6th, 2008 at 12:21 amLeigh Peele
Anna- Okay you are making me hungry. You just need to remember that deficits are temporary, and I think next you should start cooking yourself Thai food at home. Your smart, you know what you like, so make dinner for you and your boyfriend. You can definitely get back on track! Good luck
Sarah- That is a fantastic goal to have! Remember when you have internal (or external) forces trying to stop you from reaching you goal that is when you have to push harder. The faster you get it done the better!
October 6th, 2008 at 11:26 amLeigh Peele
Julie- If you aren’t the person you want to be, then you can’t be fully what you need to be to help others. Good luck I know you will be successful!
Mari- Get in and Get out! Once you get your body where you want it, you won’t just be watching your life pass by you will be living it.
October 6th, 2008 at 11:30 amLeigh Peele
Forest- “A fit hippy chick beach jogging babe” Haha I love that very descriptive, I really think success is in your future
Paula- We can’t always plan for setbacks, but we can come back from them stronger. Remember to not let yourself get defeated and be proud of what you have accomplished (I know I am)!
October 6th, 2008 at 11:37 amLeigh Peele
Pauline- Set yourself a goal and a time line. Look around at pictures of different bodies and figure out what will work best for you. I assure you that once you are done that you will be a hot 50 year old!
Jo- I myself am a very All or nothing kind of person as well. You just have to remember that you are human and you can make mistakes. Just because you went over in your calories by 200 doesn’t mean you should just go ahead and have 400 more and then not try again the next day. Everyday you should wake up thinking I am going to be on point with your diet and if you mess up a little let that inspire you to do better not worse. A transformation should be surrounded with positivity not negativity.
I love that you want to KNOW that you are sexy for your husband and yourself and I hope that you continue working on making your body, dreams, and spirit stronger everyday.
October 6th, 2008 at 11:38 amLeigh Peele
Sarah J- Ahhh self sabotage, this is something that I think so many of my readers need to realize they have a problem with. You know my motto is Get in and Get out! Then you won’t have to think about it any more and you will be the woman that you daughters will look up to for strength (not that they already don’t
)
Diana- Making your goals known, and letting others see you succeed and fail it the best accountablity out there, great first step. I think it is great that you are so happy with your life, and once you can subtract 100lbs I hope it will be even better. Working hard to lose fat not only improves your health and strength but also your confidence and character.
October 6th, 2008 at 12:24 pmLeigh Peele
Sarah J- Ahhh self sabotage, this is something that I think so many of my readers need to realize they have a problem with. You know my motto is Get in and Get out! Then you won’t have to think about it any more and you will be the woman that you daughters will look up to for strength (not that they already don’t
)
Diana- Making your goals known, and letting others see you succeed and fail it the best accountability out there, great first step. I think it is great that you are so happy with your life, and once you can subtract 100lbs I hope it will be even better. Working hard to lose fat not only improves your health and strength but also your confidence and character.
October 6th, 2008 at 12:25 pmLeigh Peele
Iysis- I am glad you liked the post. Your warrior with in will shine through it you let it. You will be the strong amazing mom that your children only dream of becoming. Get that diet in check and you will get there!
Ivana- I know it is hard getting your diet in check when you have a specific diet. You are always going to have to make sure you are getting proper nutrients and enough protein, but once you find a method that works for you it will get easier. Good luck!
October 6th, 2008 at 2:59 pmLeigh Peele
Shari- Being a mom is hard, especially when you are trying to find “me” time. You can’t be the mom you want to be if you don’t take care of yourself and make yourself happy and healthy. A happier healthier mom that gives herself “me” time is a stronger more energetic mom. Track, Track, Track and you will get there.
Hugo- Outsourcing is important when we are lost. Being the kind of person that can ask for help are realizing that maybe you just don’t have enough time to research what you need to do to Get it done is important not only too fat loss but life. I love how you want your life to be laid out and the kind of man you want to be for your Wife, children, and friends. All it takes is change everything else will just fall into place.
October 6th, 2008 at 3:08 pmLeigh Peele
Rita- “I want to become the complete person I was intended to be.” What a beautiful line, I think as a mother of 4 you are already strong inside, so now you just need to let your strength and power shine through. As a mother you must understand that there is not such thing as perfection, each on of your children must be perfectly different, perfectly strong, and perfectly flawed. Every mistake we make teaches something to not do tomorrow.
Leigh- We all have problems with the idea of perfection. If you are “perfect” then you can no longer grow…no one should every stop growing and changing
Good luck with your goals.
October 6th, 2008 at 3:10 pmLeigh Peele
Patricia- Track Track Track! Routines are very important but can also be dangerous if you are an “All or Nothing” kind of person. Making goals for yourself and figuring out what kind of body you want is very important. I wish you a happy healthy life!
Jessica- “I want to become the best ME possible.” This is the kind of statement you need to put up on your fridge! Your desire to change is fantastic. Now you just need to do it and you will grow into the woman you want to be…You will be the “After” Picture with the amazing life that doesn’t have to worry about their diet anymore.
October 6th, 2008 at 3:11 pmSara
1-What do you really need to change to make this work?
Sometimes, I feel like I need to change everything. I keep wanted to achieve perfection, but that just doesn’t apply to the day to day bumps and hurdles I keep getting stuck on. I keep coming up with these perfect diets, but the tiniest stresses and variables to my routine just give me the excuse I desire to totally blow my diet and eat like a pig. The change I need is to be able to stick to my diet and exercise routine anytime, anywhere, anyhow. Drop and give me 20, Sara!
2-Who do you really want to become?
My ultimate (totally secret) desire is not to be one of those skinny chicks, but one of those mesomorphic muscle chicks and to have a well-defined waist. Aside from that, I just want to become a person who really enjoys every bit of life and maybe can shop in the normal people’s clothes stores again.
October 7th, 2008 at 5:19 amLeigh Peele
Heather- I definitely understand giving everything you got out to help everyone and not always having enough for yourself. You need to put yourself on the list and if you need more accountability outsource! Get yourself a trainer that will devote their time to you
Get yourself together so you can help even more people.
Jim- You are welcome for the beer goggle warning
It is a big step to really go there and change the personality and image that people are used to. Good luck with the next 45 years being the _____(Fill in blank with strong, healthy, fit, sexy, amazing) Guy.
October 7th, 2008 at 7:08 pmLeigh Peele
Lisa- “Just because I have four children doesn’t me I have to show it!” That is so right! Being a strong positive role model is hard work but it always pays off in the end. HOPE is the best thing you can give to people
Sue- Remember tracking doesn’t only involve how many calories you are eating, it is also how many calories you are burning. I promise your body doesn’t hate you, it probably loves you more than you will every know and it trying to protect you from a deficit
Positive reinforcement drives us all, use anything you can to drive you closer to your goal.
October 7th, 2008 at 8:43 pmLeigh Peele
Jessica- Negativity is something that can stop all of us. The difference between 25% and 16% is turning up your ipod the the “you can’t do this” starts.
Nic- Like attracts like, you should just slowly start to switch out negative things for positive ones. Switch your non active socializing for something completely different like rock climbing. Keep yourself positive and keep positive people around you always.
October 7th, 2008 at 8:46 pmSusan
Hi Leigh! If you are still looking for participants in your program, please consider me. I would love to be your guinea pig. Here are the answers to your challenge questions.
1. What do you really need to change to make this work?
Leigh, you helped me out so much, talked to me on the phone and I finally LOST the weight I wanted to loose after a couple little tweaks. This was a huge stepping stone, just knowing what I needed to do. However, I have since gained some of it back when I kind of fell off the wagon. And, the hard part is, I didn’t fall hard. It was just a matter of a little extra food, a few deserts here and there, a couple fewer workouts and here I am halfway back to where I started. So, what I REALLY need to change to make this work is to figure out how to manage and/or eliminate the small stresses in my day to day life that trigger my “little falls”. Figure out what I need to do to unwind that doesn’t involve food and/or empty alcohol calories. How to respect how I feel when I’m at my goal weight just a little bit more. How to maintain is the goal I guess.
2. Who do you really want to become. I love who I am. I’m 43 years old. I have a great career, great family and great friends. There is no major stress in my life. What I really want ALL THE TIME is the feeling I get when I look the best I can — strong, healthy, sexy, confident. I want the feeling of getting dressed everyday in clothes that I love that fit. I want to wear a bikini and not worry.
October 7th, 2008 at 8:53 pmLeigh Peele
Tina- It is fantastic to look to the future and see what you want to be, but you have to act now so you can have the things you wish for. You need to always remember that if you are not the best “you”, loving yourself and doing things for yourself that it will only get harder and harder to do everything you do for others. Stronger healthier people have more to give to their family, friends, and the world. I think your desperation is in your future dreams
Kim- Cheat meals are definitely there for a reason, maybe you will feel better about your cheat meal if it is a lot of food you feel good about eating instead of a little food you feel guilty about eating.
October 7th, 2008 at 11:28 pmLeigh Peele
Mandie- I love making people actually think about something! I have to first say I love the words you capitalized—STOP ALWAYS WILL STUCK NOT NOT RIGHT CHANGED STRONG SEXY–I think this says everything. Those are not light words, those are the words of a woman that will no longer stand still. Let yourself move and change and mold into the woman that YOU can be proud of and then you will feel like you deserve the respect that I am sure you already have from your loved ones.
Anne- First I want to congratulate you on how far you have already come, losing fat/weight the hard way build character and says that you are a fighter. Sabotage is a hard thing to overcome, you have to realize that it is okay, even good, to change, grow, and succeed. I do think that you need to make a you tube video of you dancing in your Daisy Dukes
October 7th, 2008 at 11:29 pmLeigh Peele
Etana- I am glad that you are realizing the science behind fat loss and using it to achieve your goals. The “Just Do It” voice will keep getting louder and louder if you let it. “I want to become my powerful self that is already here.” You will, being that you are now, at a time when most give up, pushing you body and mind to be better shows that you will be.
Karen- I have to go back to your comment and point out the two words you capitalized “CAN and NEED” Very important words when dealing with change. You have to realize that you CAN be a stronger person and you NEED to push yourself and believe in yourself to do so.
October 8th, 2008 at 1:01 pmLeigh Peele
Damon- You definitely need to be 100% committed to achieve your goal. That doesn’t mean you can make mistakes, but instead of falling deeper and deeper into the hole you need to have a back up plan to get yourself back on track. There is nothing wrong with expecting the best from yourself and not only getting but feeling like you deserve respect and attention from others.
Teresa- “I don’t want to become anyone. I dig me. I want to stay me, but I want to be the best version of me that is possible. I want other people to see me and want to be me!!” I love this so much. Well put on your “big girl panties” and do it. Change your habits and Track Track Track!
October 8th, 2008 at 1:02 pmLeigh Peele
Meredith- Remember a diet is only half the work. You have to understand how to read your body. There is nothing wrong with loving food, but you need to find a deeper different kind of love for it. Like obsessively trying to figure out ways to make your favorite foods at home and lower in calories, using different ingredients, etc.
Elizabeth- Fear is such a powerful thing that can stop us so much. Start slow, I say tomorrow you go out and do something that you have always wanted to do but have been to afraid to try. I don’t care if it is trying some exotic fruit you have never had or trying to do a handstand up against a wall. Everyday you do this you will get closer to being the strong health courageous woman you want to be.
October 8th, 2008 at 1:04 pmLeigh Peele
Vicky- Good! I am glad you are done making excuses. Now you can get on track and so your children that you are the kind of person that can’t be stopped, even by her ex husband
Jessica- Make a plan and stick to it. Take that time for yourself and you will be an “Ironman”
Lisa- I love making people smile too. You have to find a balance that works for you, if you can’t focus completely on one goal, then hire someone to help you get it done faster.
October 8th, 2008 at 1:06 pmLeigh Peele
Ruben- Congratulations on how far you have come already and good luck with the future. There are never too many transformation stories, everyone needs a little inspiration.
Sinead- I love your positivity and that having a small set back, well not too small, hasn’t stopped you from wanting to reach your goal. “I want to take advantage of this gift of life and live it to the fullest for every second that I have. I don’t want life to pass me by because I’ve let myself get too fat to jump right into the deep end!” I just had to repeat that. I think that you will be the person that you want to be; a strong, confident, healthy, sexy, amazing mother and wife that everyone adores and loves.
October 8th, 2008 at 1:07 pmLeigh Peele
Amanda- It is great that you realize what you are doing, now you just need to stop doing it and you will be the “trophy wife”
Good luck.
Carol- Hey 45 is sexy and you can make 20 somethings jealous of you
October 8th, 2008 at 1:08 pmMingo
Change? Quit planning, quit trying to make the “perfect spreadsheet” to track absolutely everything, quit looking for the “perfect plan”, quit talking about training for this event or that, quit waiting for the perfect time to start (which of course, is never right now!) Start fighting inertia and just get out there (no access to a gym is not an excuse – I have a bike, I have a dog who *loves* to run …)
Become? In my head, in my spreadsheets, in my charts & plans (ooh I am *really* good at *making* plans!), I already am a beautiful flamingo who looks beautiful because of what she eats. But, check back into reality, and all of that is just “flights-of-fancy” … truth is, just like the flamingo, I do look like what I eat; it’s just not not what I *want* to be. What I want is a “what you see is what you get” kind of life … only the “get” healthy & fit (beautiful pink flamingo!) instead of overstuffed, soft & squishy!
October 9th, 2008 at 9:31 pm