It would be great if everyone could share some of their "A-HA moments"... you know those insights that suddenly click in your brain and you finally get it? Or you figure something out and are suddenly able to make a radical change or commitment?
For me the biggest "a-ha" came when I finally understood what role my self-esteem and self-worth plays in being overweight. I know we all hear it over and over again about "loving ourselves" etc. but it didn't truly hit home unil recently for me. Not too long ago we adopted an adorable pug puppy who is our first pet. Well we have both totally fallen in love with the little guy and would do anything for this dog! I take him out in all sorts of weather... walk him several times a day... bathe him... groom him... buy him treats and toys... feed him the best food available on the market... you get the picture... spoiled puggy! Well very early on I realized that I was willing to do things for this dog that I was unwilling to do for myself! Exercising and healthy eating! Why was I willing to walk this dog everyday (2-4 15-30 minutes walks everyday) but totally unwilling to walk myself? Why would I only feed this dog healthy, expensive dog food while feeding myself junk? And then it hit me... I would do anything for this little guy because I really love him and I believe he is worth the sacrifice. On the other hand, I wouldn't do any of these things for MYSELF because I did not believe I was worth the sacrifice and didn't truly love myself. A-HA!
So now whenever I am faced with a choice about eating or exercising I ask myself if I am worth the sacrifice and the answer is always yes. I am worth it. I do deserve it, no matter what the cost. It has radically changed my behavior and has resulted in very successful weight loss.
Can everyone else share their A-HA moments for the benefit of the group?
Oh yeah... and here is a picture of my little guy...