Common Challenges: The Art of the Start

I did the strangest thing today. I tried on all of my dresses I've collected in my closet for the last nine years. Why did I do this you ask? I was cleaning out my closet and I was celebrating reaching my pre wedding weight.

I'm a dietitian. I'm a mom. I have two jobs and I watch what I eat for the most part but with all that I have going on I have definitely put my dietary habits at the bottom of the barrel. Sometimes I go through my day and by the time I sit down to eat I'm in crisis mode which is not the best mode to be in to allow for wise decisions.

I exercise intensely four times a week and since I've had my children who are ages three and two, I have held on to nine pounds. This may not sound like a lot, and I'm not saying it is, but for me at five feet two it’s a pant size.

So instead of practicing what I preach I decided to treat myself like a client. I did the food records; I analyzed my intake to goal, and changed up my routine. It was hard to prioritize and at times I felt selfish not doing the baths for my children because I needed to get my exercise in. I was even tired getting up early in the a.m. to prep our dinner but I feel great and I'm confident that what I preach works if you're willing to put the effort in.

If you want to lose weight and keep it off there are five critical components:
1. Have a reasonable goal - (lose 1-2 pounds a week)
2. Schedule your time - (work out from 7:730 am every M, W, F, and Sat)
3. Keep Records - (write it down, it keeps you honest)
4. Hold yourself accountable- (tell your family or friends your goals, or get a buddy)
5. Celebrate your successes- (don't reward yourself with food, go to the movies, buy a new book)

As Walt Disney said "The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing." Good luck and be well.

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