Last spring I lost 50lbs in 4 months. I worked so hard and was very focused and disciplined.
Well life happened. I got a promotion which was fantastic, but ultimately took on many more responsibilities as well as went through some challenges at home. Finding balance was very hard, neither my family nor myself were priority #1. I slowly put the weight back on. I did phase one of HMR (nationally recognized program which I did through OSF St. Joseph) being the weight loss part but I didn’t “have time” for the phase two being the maintaining and lifestyle transition part. I didn’t take the time to incorporate those changes and I slowly went back to my coping mechanism – food.
I have had some tough lessons about balance and priorities this year. What do I value and where does my energy go? I poured myself into work and helping others and completely lost touch with how I was doing or the needs of my family. No wonder I regressed, I wasn’t feeding my soul with satisfying healthy relationships but with achievement and hustle. If I work that much harder and do this for that person then I will feel fulfilled. Well yes I did…temporarily, but that win doesn’t last. Thus creating exhaustion and the constant need to find fulfillment in giving every last ounce of my energy to help someone else. While noble, that was not sustainable nor healthy for me. That is why the foundation of loving family and friends as well as a healthy emotional, mental and spiritual balance is so important for long term fulfillment and satisfaction. That’s all food dependency is, short term satisfaction to fill a void.
Now, it is time to make some adjustments and get me back on track. For if I’m broken, then I can’t serve to the best of my ability in all areas of life. I started HMR back last week. Committing to the 13 weeks again of clean, simple, eating and exercise. But this time I will also commit the time to make the change a lifestyle and not rush to thinking that just because I hit my goal I am done. I am ready to welcome that discipline back into my life, long term. Countdown to the journey…as I eat a bowl of asparagus.
By Cassandra Newman
VP of Business Solutions
Four Seasons Health Club
