Hello!
Thank you Meg for a very good summary of chapter 2.
I agree with SO much of what's in that 2nd chapter. It's like something clicked (clichee, I know, but that's what it was) inside my head and I threw off the proverbial blindfold this time. Because this time around, I have accepted the fact that I can't keep on fooling myself when it comes to food and exercise. All the food that I eat counts and all the exercise that I do counts too and I'm fine with that. In the past I have tried to cheat in whatever system I was in and then I got disappointed when it didn't work, I didn't want to realise that losing weight is hard work. But now I feel fine about that particular insight, I don't feel the urge anymore to squeal like a kid "But it's not FAIR!" and that's very important, I think. And this time around I'm also really interested in, and focused on, maintenance even though I still have a bit to go before I have to tackle that. Maintenance wasn't something I ever thought about when trying to lose weight before. It all just feels calmer and more thought through this time. I actually don't mind counting calories because at least that feels honest (having "free fruit" or whatever on Weight Watchers, to name one example, did not feel honest) and I don't have to adhere to other people's weird plans. I eat in a balanced manner and when my calories are gone, then they are gone - I've stopped cheating! It's feels like such a relief.
As far as exercise goes - in previous weight loss attempts I was very reluctant to do any exercise and I tried to avoid it at all costs. Even there I cheated and gave myself Bonus Points or whatever for a measly walk that probably burned off way less than I gave it credit for. Now I exercise regularly (weight training and power yoga) and I actually *like* it. I like it for itself, the fact that I get to feel my muscles working and my blood pumping, rather than thinking about how much more junk I can eat for this or that bout of exercise. So that also feels like an attitude shift that just matured..
I guess that this change in my attitude towards food and exercising just grew out of sheer fatigue. Fatigue from trying X number of different things and not getting the result I wanted. I asked "Ok self, what do you HONESTLY think will work?" and the answer was clear - calories in vs calories out. Not a trendy or glamorous answer, but it works for me.
So now it doesn't feel like reaching my ideal weigh is just a mere fantasy, but a reality waiting to happen. If I take a close look at my thoughts I don't see ANY doubts in there AT ALL. That's completely new. Maybe several pieces of my puzzle are starting to fit together now, it sure feels like it. And I'm so glad!
Those were my personal thoughts on the matter.. Looking forward to reading everyone else's because you ladies always have such wise things to contribute with and always offer interesting reads!
Hugs,
Ann-Charlotte in Sweden