For most of my life the holidays were an excuse to cut loose. I’d eat as much as I wanted, as often as I wanted—and it was okay because I was doing it all in the name of celebration. Have you ever eaten so much that you’ve had to go and lay down? I’ll be completely honest saying that I sure have.
These days, however, things are different. As I look ahead to a week from now, I see myself sitting at Thanksgiving dinner with my family, surrounded by people who love me and are proud of what I’ve accomplished. I see myself with a heart full of passion for the road ahead and the journey I’ve traveled, and a mind full of hope because I’ve learned that what I’m doing for myself is worth every second.
Some of you may know that I am an avid Biggest Loser fan. It’s the only night in the week I’m sitting in front of the television for more than an hour – but I love watching these people experience the things I’ve experienced, and I’m often motivated to stay the course on my own journey through their compassion and words. This season, my favorite contestant has been Abby Rike. She is a beautiful, inspiring woman with an incredible story. The night she was sent home she said this:
“I’ve proven to myself that I am thethings I want to be.”
As I heard her say that I instantly ran to write it down. The truth is, that no matter what my past was like and no matter what is ahead of me – I have proven to myself that I am exactly who I want to be. I might not be the fastest runner who can run a half marathon tomorrow – but I am a man who has learned that I can run, that I can run in a race – and that I will finish that race if I set my mind to it.
This Holiday Season, I’m thankful for my health. I’m thankful that even if I overeat and gain a pound (or two) that I know exactly how to lose it. I’m thankful that I’m in control of my eating habits, and that I’m surrounded by friends and family who support my decision to take care of myself by providing healthy options amidst the sea of alternative choices.
While this has been my reality, I understand some may not even know where to start in their pursuit of a healthy lifestyle. If you’re attempting to embrace a healthy lifestyle and truly integrate it into your life, it’s my opinion you should do three things:
- Be honest with yourself and make the choice to pursue this lifestyle about you.
- Be honest with your friends and family and tell them that this is something that matters to you (in hopes that they won’t enable you to derail your efforts).
- Surround yourself with people who will both support and celebrate you as you go through this journey, and keep you accountable when you ask them for it.
Living a healthy lifestyle can be difficult (some say it’s the most difficult thing they’ve ever done), but it doesn’t have to be impossible—and it shouldn’t be a chore. The changes you choose to make should be attainable, trackable and realistic. So start small, make a list and be honest with yourself when you’re ready to make a change for you.
We are about to enter the 2009 holiday season – but that doesn’t mean you can’t be healthy. Don’t let this be another year of being out of control, if you’re ready to make the decision for to be healthier for yourself, do it. There couldn’t be a better time to make a change. I wish you all the best as you work towards a better you.
keep moving,
dane.
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