Bring it!
mgullette
Posts: 401 Member
Hello everyone,
In an effort to keep myself accountable while on my fitness journey, I would like to start this thread to get to know the community. I have not been posting for a long time, but the information I have seen has compelled me to start my own thread. My goal is to motivate you, and also to receive motivation from others. However, I emphasize that this thread is only for those of us who are serious and dedicated to a lifestyle change, incorporating our fitness program and nutrition program for a healthier, more fulfilling life. Therefore, I would like to invite you to join, but please consider the following ground rules.
-Nutrition: Clean eating only. If you are unfamiliar with this concept, please research it. There is also a thread over in the Nutrition section dedicated to clean eating. I will place emphasis on lean protein, whole grains, non-starchy vegetables, fresh fruits, monounsaturated fats, and whole, fresh food in general. White flour, sugar, processed, packaged, low-carb, low-fat, 100 calorie packs be gone! Log your calories, fat, protein, carbohydrates, fiber, and sugar each and every day. Every morsel of food should be recorded in your food diary.
Questions about diet pills? Quick fixes? Easy ways out? Alcohol? Take them somewhere else. If you’re inquiring if these are ok, you already know the answer. Please do not seek validation from us.
-Exercise: Just do it. There are no excuses for not exercising. Your body needs cardiovascular work. Your body needs strength training. Find a program that fits your tastes, goals, and lifestyle, and DO IT! We all have the same 24 hours per day, and if you are truly dedicated, your commitment to a new lifestyle will be reflected and rewarded in how you look and feel. I highly recommend a chest strap heart rate monitor so that you can get the most accurate count on your exercises and record them into your diary. Don’t guess.
- Mental Preparation: This is probably the biggest component of any successful lifestyle change. Now is the time to be serious. Are you ready? Can you give up chips, cakes, cookies, and alcohol throughout your journey? Can you dedicate one hour to exercise each day? Do you have the necessary support? Are you ready to give up toxic friends and those who are holding you down out of their own insecurities? Are you willing to make your goals specific and clear to yourself and those around you? Do you view this as a lifestyle change or a diet? Answer: If you are viewing this as a diet, this is not the place for you. If you slip-up (we all do) will you persevere and get right back to it, or will you view yourself as just another failure? Do you regularly participate in negative self-talk? Are you doing this for yourself or to impress others?
Define why you are here. Do you want to set a healthy example for your children? Do you want to lead by example for an unhealthy family member? Climb that mountain without getting out of breath? Not worry about fitting in the roller coaster ride seat? These are all valid reasons, and you need to keep them front and center to bring you back should you venture too far off the path. This is your mission statement.
Take time out to ponder these questions, and meditate. Yes, meditate. Clear your mind, and see yourself at your goal. How do you feel? How do you look? What are you doing? This mental picture creates an end-goal for you to envision whenever you get discouraged and feel like quitting.
Goal-setting: I encourage everyone here to have a set of long-term goals, broken up into shorter term goals. And by goals, I mean very specific, challenging but achievable goals. If you are brave enough, list your starting statistics, your current statistics, and your goal statistics. Height, pant/dress size, weight, body fat %, right upper arm, left upper arm, waist, hips, chest, neck, right thigh, left thigh, right calf, and left calf. This may seem like a lot of measurements, but sometimes when the scale doesn’t reflect a change, and you know you’ve been following your program to a T, the measurements speak louder than the scale. This will motivate you to continue. Also, align these goals with weekly, monthly, and yearly goals. Keep in mind that even when you reach your goal weight, there are always opportunities to dig deeper, reach higher, and achieve more than you ever thought possible, whether it be in your strength, endurance, or your ability and desire to be a better friend, spouse, or parent.
I have a tendency to be blunt when others are nice and to play the devil’s advocate. I want everyone to succeed, but I want you all to be as unwilling to accept excuses as I am. If your health and fitness is truly a priority, then make it a priority. Of course life will put you in some unsatisfactory situations, but prepare yourself and develop contingency plans should you find yourself in one, and then get right back to it.
Feel free to share your thoughts, motivation, goals, measurements, recipes, and questions here. Surround yourself with others who have similar goals, and you will have a higher chance of success. If you ever have any questions, concerns, or issues, please feel free to post or send me a personal message, and I will make an effort to get back to you as soon as possible.
Finally, no excuses. Just do it!
Thanks everyone!
Michelle
In an effort to keep myself accountable while on my fitness journey, I would like to start this thread to get to know the community. I have not been posting for a long time, but the information I have seen has compelled me to start my own thread. My goal is to motivate you, and also to receive motivation from others. However, I emphasize that this thread is only for those of us who are serious and dedicated to a lifestyle change, incorporating our fitness program and nutrition program for a healthier, more fulfilling life. Therefore, I would like to invite you to join, but please consider the following ground rules.
-Nutrition: Clean eating only. If you are unfamiliar with this concept, please research it. There is also a thread over in the Nutrition section dedicated to clean eating. I will place emphasis on lean protein, whole grains, non-starchy vegetables, fresh fruits, monounsaturated fats, and whole, fresh food in general. White flour, sugar, processed, packaged, low-carb, low-fat, 100 calorie packs be gone! Log your calories, fat, protein, carbohydrates, fiber, and sugar each and every day. Every morsel of food should be recorded in your food diary.
Questions about diet pills? Quick fixes? Easy ways out? Alcohol? Take them somewhere else. If you’re inquiring if these are ok, you already know the answer. Please do not seek validation from us.
-Exercise: Just do it. There are no excuses for not exercising. Your body needs cardiovascular work. Your body needs strength training. Find a program that fits your tastes, goals, and lifestyle, and DO IT! We all have the same 24 hours per day, and if you are truly dedicated, your commitment to a new lifestyle will be reflected and rewarded in how you look and feel. I highly recommend a chest strap heart rate monitor so that you can get the most accurate count on your exercises and record them into your diary. Don’t guess.
- Mental Preparation: This is probably the biggest component of any successful lifestyle change. Now is the time to be serious. Are you ready? Can you give up chips, cakes, cookies, and alcohol throughout your journey? Can you dedicate one hour to exercise each day? Do you have the necessary support? Are you ready to give up toxic friends and those who are holding you down out of their own insecurities? Are you willing to make your goals specific and clear to yourself and those around you? Do you view this as a lifestyle change or a diet? Answer: If you are viewing this as a diet, this is not the place for you. If you slip-up (we all do) will you persevere and get right back to it, or will you view yourself as just another failure? Do you regularly participate in negative self-talk? Are you doing this for yourself or to impress others?
Define why you are here. Do you want to set a healthy example for your children? Do you want to lead by example for an unhealthy family member? Climb that mountain without getting out of breath? Not worry about fitting in the roller coaster ride seat? These are all valid reasons, and you need to keep them front and center to bring you back should you venture too far off the path. This is your mission statement.
Take time out to ponder these questions, and meditate. Yes, meditate. Clear your mind, and see yourself at your goal. How do you feel? How do you look? What are you doing? This mental picture creates an end-goal for you to envision whenever you get discouraged and feel like quitting.
Goal-setting: I encourage everyone here to have a set of long-term goals, broken up into shorter term goals. And by goals, I mean very specific, challenging but achievable goals. If you are brave enough, list your starting statistics, your current statistics, and your goal statistics. Height, pant/dress size, weight, body fat %, right upper arm, left upper arm, waist, hips, chest, neck, right thigh, left thigh, right calf, and left calf. This may seem like a lot of measurements, but sometimes when the scale doesn’t reflect a change, and you know you’ve been following your program to a T, the measurements speak louder than the scale. This will motivate you to continue. Also, align these goals with weekly, monthly, and yearly goals. Keep in mind that even when you reach your goal weight, there are always opportunities to dig deeper, reach higher, and achieve more than you ever thought possible, whether it be in your strength, endurance, or your ability and desire to be a better friend, spouse, or parent.
I have a tendency to be blunt when others are nice and to play the devil’s advocate. I want everyone to succeed, but I want you all to be as unwilling to accept excuses as I am. If your health and fitness is truly a priority, then make it a priority. Of course life will put you in some unsatisfactory situations, but prepare yourself and develop contingency plans should you find yourself in one, and then get right back to it.
Feel free to share your thoughts, motivation, goals, measurements, recipes, and questions here. Surround yourself with others who have similar goals, and you will have a higher chance of success. If you ever have any questions, concerns, or issues, please feel free to post or send me a personal message, and I will make an effort to get back to you as soon as possible.
Finally, no excuses. Just do it!
Thanks everyone!
Michelle
0
Replies
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Hello everyone,
In an effort to keep myself accountable while on my fitness journey, I would like to start this thread to get to know the community. I have not been posting for a long time, but the information I have seen has compelled me to start my own thread. My goal is to motivate you, and also to receive motivation from others. However, I emphasize that this thread is only for those of us who are serious and dedicated to a lifestyle change, incorporating our fitness program and nutrition program for a healthier, more fulfilling life. Therefore, I would like to invite you to join, but please consider the following ground rules.
-Nutrition: Clean eating only. If you are unfamiliar with this concept, please research it. There is also a thread over in the Nutrition section dedicated to clean eating. I will place emphasis on lean protein, whole grains, non-starchy vegetables, fresh fruits, monounsaturated fats, and whole, fresh food in general. White flour, sugar, processed, packaged, low-carb, low-fat, 100 calorie packs be gone! Log your calories, fat, protein, carbohydrates, fiber, and sugar each and every day. Every morsel of food should be recorded in your food diary.
Questions about diet pills? Quick fixes? Easy ways out? Alcohol? Take them somewhere else. If you’re inquiring if these are ok, you already know the answer. Please do not seek validation from us.
-Exercise: Just do it. There are no excuses for not exercising. Your body needs cardiovascular work. Your body needs strength training. Find a program that fits your tastes, goals, and lifestyle, and DO IT! We all have the same 24 hours per day, and if you are truly dedicated, your commitment to a new lifestyle will be reflected and rewarded in how you look and feel. I highly recommend a chest strap heart rate monitor so that you can get the most accurate count on your exercises and record them into your diary. Don’t guess.
- Mental Preparation: This is probably the biggest component of any successful lifestyle change. Now is the time to be serious. Are you ready? Can you give up chips, cakes, cookies, and alcohol throughout your journey? Can you dedicate one hour to exercise each day? Do you have the necessary support? Are you ready to give up toxic friends and those who are holding you down out of their own insecurities? Are you willing to make your goals specific and clear to yourself and those around you? Do you view this as a lifestyle change or a diet? Answer: If you are viewing this as a diet, this is not the place for you. If you slip-up (we all do) will you persevere and get right back to it, or will you view yourself as just another failure? Do you regularly participate in negative self-talk? Are you doing this for yourself or to impress others?
Define why you are here. Do you want to set a healthy example for your children? Do you want to lead by example for an unhealthy family member? Climb that mountain without getting out of breath? Not worry about fitting in the roller coaster ride seat? These are all valid reasons, and you need to keep them front and center to bring you back should you venture too far off the path. This is your mission statement.
Take time out to ponder these questions, and meditate. Yes, meditate. Clear your mind, and see yourself at your goal. How do you feel? How do you look? What are you doing? This mental picture creates an end-goal for you to envision whenever you get discouraged and feel like quitting.
Goal-setting: I encourage everyone here to have a set of long-term goals, broken up into shorter term goals. And by goals, I mean very specific, challenging but achievable goals. If you are brave enough, list your starting statistics, your current statistics, and your goal statistics. Height, pant/dress size, weight, body fat %, right upper arm, left upper arm, waist, hips, chest, neck, right thigh, left thigh, right calf, and left calf. This may seem like a lot of measurements, but sometimes when the scale doesn’t reflect a change, and you know you’ve been following your program to a T, the measurements speak louder than the scale. This will motivate you to continue. Also, align these goals with weekly, monthly, and yearly goals. Keep in mind that even when you reach your goal weight, there are always opportunities to dig deeper, reach higher, and achieve more than you ever thought possible, whether it be in your strength, endurance, or your ability and desire to be a better friend, spouse, or parent.
I have a tendency to be blunt when others are nice and to play the devil’s advocate. I want everyone to succeed, but I want you all to be as unwilling to accept excuses as I am. If your health and fitness is truly a priority, then make it a priority. Of course life will put you in some unsatisfactory situations, but prepare yourself and develop contingency plans should you find yourself in one, and then get right back to it.
Feel free to share your thoughts, motivation, goals, measurements, recipes, and questions here. Surround yourself with others who have similar goals, and you will have a higher chance of success. If you ever have any questions, concerns, or issues, please feel free to post or send me a personal message, and I will make an effort to get back to you as soon as possible.
Finally, no excuses. Just do it!
Thanks everyone!
Michelle0 -
Recipe of the Day
Szechwan Shrimp
from The Sonoma Diet
Prep: 35 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
Makes: 4 Servings
1.25 pounds fresh or frozen medium shrimp
4 teaspoons reduced sodium soy sauce
4 teaspoons grated fresh ginger or .5 teaspoons ground ginger
1 T dry sherry or water
1 T oriental chili sauce with garlic
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1/8 teaspoon Kosher salt
kosher salt, black pepper to taste
1.5 teaspoons reduced sodium soy sauce
4 teaspoons canola oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
1 medium bell pepper, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
2 cups fresh pea pods, trimmed
6 cups Chinese (Napa) cabbage, shredded
1/4 cup dry roasted peanuts
2 T sliced green onions
1. Thaw shrimp, if frozen. Peel and devein. Rinse and pat dry. For sauce, combine the 4 teaspoons of soy sauce, ginger, sherry or water, oriental chili sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and 1/8 teaspoon of salt. Set aside.
2. Place shrimp in medium bowl, sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper. Stir in the 1.5 teaspoons soy sauce and 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch, set aside.
3. In a wok or 12 inch skillet heat 2 teaspoons of oil over medium high heat. Add garlic, stir-fry for 30 seconds. Add mushrooms, stir fry for 3 minutes. Add bell pepper, stir fry for 1 minute. Add pea pods; stir fry for 2 minutes. Remove vegetables from wok.
4. Add remaining 2 teaspoons of oil to skillet. Add shrimp mixture, stir fry for 2-3 minutes until shrimp turn opaque. Stir sauce, add to wok. Cook and stir until boiling; cook and stir 2 minutes more. Add vegetable mixture back to wok and add cabbage. Toss to coat.
5. Sprinkle with peanuts and green onions.
Nutrition Facts per serving:
328 calories
14 grams fat (2 saturated)
125 mg cholesterol
714 mg sodium
16 grams carbohydrates
3 grams fiber
35 grams protein
Enjoy! Spicy and delicious.0 -
Hi Michelle,
Wow!! Great post. I read every word and am impressed. No nonsense blunt!! I'm not sure if I'm quite all the way there yet. But, will work everyday towards being a member of your thread. :happy:
Thank you for your motivation!!! Bluntness is good!! Like Biggest Loser Jillian type of good!
Tks for your post!!0 -
Yahooooo!! Im with ya on this one girlie!!! No excuses I love it!!.. I will snag that shrimp recipe on my way out ...sounds yummy!!!:drinker:0
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Curious....Are you really never going to eat another cookie or piece of cake the rest of your life??? Wow.0
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Curious....Are you really never going to eat another cookie or piece of cake the rest of your life??? Wow.
Ditto.....0 -
Curious....Are you really never going to eat another cookie or piece of cake the rest of your life??? Wow.
Ditto.....
:laugh: :laugh:
I'm glad I wasnt the only one thinking that... I am serious about my lifestyle change, but I will not give up the foods that I love. I will focus on moderation and portion control. but I cant live without my yummy food!
0 -
Curious....Are you really never going to eat another cookie or piece of cake the rest of your life??? Wow.
Ditto.....
:laugh: :laugh:
I'm glad I wasnt the only one thinking that... I am serious about my lifestyle change, but I will not give up the foods that I love. I will focus on moderation and portion control. but I cant live without my yummy food!
Amen Sister!0 -
Curious....Are you really never going to eat another cookie or piece of cake the rest of your life??? Wow.
Ditto.....
:laugh: :laugh:
I'm glad I wasnt the only one thinking that... I am serious about my lifestyle change, but I will not give up the foods that I love. I will focus on moderation and portion control. but I cant live without my yummy food!
Amen Sister!
I second that. :bigsmile:0 -
It's not easy to go without 100% and it's good to keep aiming for it though. That's what I admire most of the contestant on Biggest Loser. You can actually see their transformation of not only their bodies, their exercise regimens but also their dietary preferences, their discipline and their overall nutritional health improving everyday. It's a good model to watch for. :happy:0
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Hello everyone,
In an effort to keep myself accountable while on my fitness journey, I would like to start this thread to get to know the community. I have not been posting for a long time, but the information I have seen has compelled me to start my own thread. My goal is to motivate you, and also to receive motivation from others. However, I emphasize that this thread is only for those of us who are serious and dedicated to a lifestyle change, incorporating our fitness program and nutrition program for a healthier, more fulfilling life. Therefore, I would like to invite you to join, but please consider the following ground rules.
-Nutrition: Clean eating only. If you are unfamiliar with this concept, please research it. There is also a thread over in the Nutrition section dedicated to clean eating. I will place emphasis on lean protein, whole grains, non-starchy vegetables, fresh fruits, monounsaturated fats, and whole, fresh food in general. White flour, sugar, processed, packaged, low-carb, low-fat, 100 calorie packs be gone! Log your calories, fat, protein, carbohydrates, fiber, and sugar each and every day. Every morsel of food should be recorded in your food diary.
Questions about diet pills? Quick fixes? Easy ways out? Alcohol? Take them somewhere else. If you’re inquiring if these are ok, you already know the answer. Please do not seek validation from us.
-Exercise: Just do it. There are no excuses for not exercising. Your body needs cardiovascular work. Your body needs strength training. Find a program that fits your tastes, goals, and lifestyle, and DO IT! We all have the same 24 hours per day, and if you are truly dedicated, your commitment to a new lifestyle will be reflected and rewarded in how you look and feel. I highly recommend a chest strap heart rate monitor so that you can get the most accurate count on your exercises and record them into your diary. Don’t guess.
- Mental Preparation: This is probably the biggest component of any successful lifestyle change. Now is the time to be serious. Are you ready? Can you give up chips, cakes, cookies, and alcohol throughout your journey? Can you dedicate one hour to exercise each day? Do you have the necessary support? Are you ready to give up toxic friends and those who are holding you down out of their own insecurities? Are you willing to make your goals specific and clear to yourself and those around you? Do you view this as a lifestyle change or a diet? Answer: If you are viewing this as a diet, this is not the place for you. If you slip-up (we all do) will you persevere and get right back to it, or will you view yourself as just another failure? Do you regularly participate in negative self-talk? Are you doing this for yourself or to impress others?
Define why you are here. Do you want to set a healthy example for your children? Do you want to lead by example for an unhealthy family member? Climb that mountain without getting out of breath? Not worry about fitting in the roller coaster ride seat? These are all valid reasons, and you need to keep them front and center to bring you back should you venture too far off the path. This is your mission statement.
Take time out to ponder these questions, and meditate. Yes, meditate. Clear your mind, and see yourself at your goal. How do you feel? How do you look? What are you doing? This mental picture creates an end-goal for you to envision whenever you get discouraged and feel like quitting.
Goal-setting: I encourage everyone here to have a set of long-term goals, broken up into shorter term goals. And by goals, I mean very specific, challenging but achievable goals. If you are brave enough, list your starting statistics, your current statistics, and your goal statistics. Height, pant/dress size, weight, body fat %, right upper arm, left upper arm, waist, hips, chest, neck, right thigh, left thigh, right calf, and left calf. This may seem like a lot of measurements, but sometimes when the scale doesn’t reflect a change, and you know you’ve been following your program to a T, the measurements speak louder than the scale. This will motivate you to continue. Also, align these goals with weekly, monthly, and yearly goals. Keep in mind that even when you reach your goal weight, there are always opportunities to dig deeper, reach higher, and achieve more than you ever thought possible, whether it be in your strength, endurance, or your ability and desire to be a better friend, spouse, or parent.
I have a tendency to be blunt when others are nice and to play the devil’s advocate. I want everyone to succeed, but I want you all to be as unwilling to accept excuses as I am. If your health and fitness is truly a priority, then make it a priority. Of course life will put you in some unsatisfactory situations, but prepare yourself and develop contingency plans should you find yourself in one, and then get right back to it.
Feel free to share your thoughts, motivation, goals, measurements, recipes, and questions here. Surround yourself with others who have similar goals, and you will have a higher chance of success. If you ever have any questions, concerns, or issues, please feel free to post or send me a personal message, and I will make an effort to get back to you as soon as possible.
Finally, no excuses. Just do it!
Thanks everyone!
Michelle
Well written, I am getting on my Gazelle right now and just doing it.
Yeehaw!!! My new mounted steed is a machine.....this is weird :noway:0 -
It's not easy to go without 100% and it's good to keep aiming for it though. That's what I admire most of the contestant on Biggest Loser. You can actually see their transformation of not only their bodies, their exercise regimens but also their dietary preferences, their discipline and their overall nutritional health improving everyday. It's a good model to watch for. :happy:
very nicely said....:drinker:0 -
Will I never eat a cookie again? I'm human, not a machine. But during weight loss, it depends how bad you want it. Sure, you can go drink 15 beers in one weekend and say, oh well, it wasn't my best weekend but I'll do better next time. Then do it. Sunk cost, past loss. Or you can have a bad day and rush home and eat 10 cookies out of the package. My question is, why even give yourself the temptation? Don't have the cookies in the house, because you're only setting yourself up for disappointment. And before anyone can say, well I keep them in the house for my kids, or my husband doesn't like eating healthy food, do what you have to. Surround yourself with supportive people who know your goals and will help you achieve them, even if it means that your husband will try new recipes with you. And really, keeping crap in the house for your kids is only teaching them poor eating habits too. Don't help your kids end up overweight, unhealthy, and feeling down and wanting to do something about it, which is why most of us are here in the first place.
Cookies are delicious, and we all know that. But are 200-400 calories each worth it? Even if you're staying within your daily allotted calories, are you getting the proper nutrition out of those? Doubtful. Let's be honest, too many people here are whining about NOTHING. YOU know what you need to do in order to be successful. Sure, have your cheats. I will. But know your body too. I can GUARANTEE you that when you eat like crap, you look and feel like crap. When you eat properly, exercise, and KNOW that you are doing your best, and I mean digging deep and doing your absolute best, you will feel on top of the world, and this feeling will spill over into other areas of your life. Not only will you have confidence in yourself and your body, but you'll feel confident enough to pursue other dreams as well. Why does everyone love makeover shows? Because it's the mental, perceptual change, not just the physical, that affects people the most.
We're here to remain supportive everyone, but someone is here to play hardball. I guess that's me. If you're willing to, I'll push you harder than you ever have yourself, and I'll ask the questions you're afraid to ask yourself. Only you know if you're doing your best or not, but chances are, if you're debating the whether to eat this cookie or that cookie, the answer is just neither. Weigh out what you want more, long-term fitness or that cookie right now. If the cookie wins, then have it. But don't make it a habit, and don't come back whining about not losing any weight when you've "truly been trying," when in reality, you had 2000 calories worth of junk in the past week.
Paradigm shift needed on these boards...0 -
Let's be honest, too many people here are whining about NOTHING. YOU know what you need to do in order to be successful.
Amen! :flowerforyou:
I know I'm not gonna give up my vices, but I'll accept the consequences.
Good luck with this, you have the right attitude!
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I like your train of thought. It's like saying "aim for the moon and you'll be sure to end up at least somewhere among the stars." I get that you don't mean "never eat a cookie." You mean, "don't mindlessly eat cookies, and tell yourself you're going to stop eating cookies eventually... really THINK before you eat the cookie, and know exactly when you are eating the cookie and why." At least *I* think that's what you mean.
I used to think I could half-*** it but, not suprisingly probably, it never worked for me. The only thing that works for me, not just with my weight but also with my overall health and well-being, is a tough mentality of NOT giving in to the temptation to eat more calories than I should and consistently consume things that are bad for me. I actively strive to make the very best choices, and, when I don't, I realize it's okay, not the end of the world or my "diet", because it's not a diet, it's a lifestyle.
I *do* treat myself and make occasional concessions... I split a sundae with my boyfriend on Valentine's Day, just this morning I ate sugary cereal because I got up late at my boyfriend's house and it was either that or nothing for breakfast for work. I do not feel guilty about either one because in *general*, 90% of the time, I eat well, and much much more natural and clean than I ever used to... I feel that I have just begun to learn the basics of nutrition and how to be healthy. I am conciously aware of what I'm eating, whether it be the rare Twix or the steady fruits and veggies.
I also used to think "I don't have time to work out" or "it's okay, I'll work out tomorrow" (which never came of course) and now I just do it every day, no excuses, and I feel so much healthier and better. Just like with the ice cream/ sugary cereal, if there does come the occasional day where I can't or don't work out, I don't feel guilty, I just relax, because 99% of the time, I work out.
So that has been my new mindset... being proud of myself for having self-control and NOT beating myself up over the little things because overall, for the first time EVER, I consistently eat well and I consistently work out. For the first time ever I take care of my body and I love it.
So I am not sure if I fit the qualifications or even what the group entails but I am definitely into clean eating, consistently working out, and not making excuses or beating myself up, but instead taking full ownership of everything, good and bad, that goes into my body. I like everything you said and I didn't get out of it that you were claiming to never eat cookies. (Although I *do* have a friend who, ever since I've known her, for the past 5 years, just refused to eat anything unhealthy. She avoids sugar, refined flour, etc... no matter what the occasion or temptation. So I know that can be done although I didn't get that that's what you necessarily meant from your post.)0 -
Well...actually you can live without a lot of foods. Most of us just don't want to. And that's something that you have to build into your program and lifestyle. I'm not saying, never eat it again, but figure out what you want more. That's all there is to it folks.0
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Personally, I try and follow these directions myself, although I should likely get off the chocolate issue.......cause this is the 100 cal treats I am having. But personally I feel like if I want to have the cake I will. Just really in moderation. After 1 month of doing this and understanding what it takes to get the cake off my belly I forgo that.........and will make it a real special treat.
But willing to do what it takes to get better.............
:flowerforyou:
Created by MyFitnessPal.com - Free Food Diary0 -
Will I never eat a cookie again? I'm human, not a machine. But during weight loss, it depends how bad you want it. Sure, you can go drink 15 beers in one weekend and say, oh well, it wasn't my best weekend but I'll do better next time. Then do it. Sunk cost, past loss. Or you can have a bad day and rush home and eat 10 cookies out of the package. My question is, why even give yourself the temptation? Don't have the cookies in the house, because you're only setting yourself up for disappointment. And before anyone can say, well I keep them in the house for my kids, or my husband doesn't like eating healthy food, do what you have to. Surround yourself with supportive people who know your goals and will help you achieve them, even if it means that your husband will try new recipes with you. And really, keeping crap in the house for your kids is only teaching them poor eating habits too. Don't help your kids end up overweight, unhealthy, and feeling down and wanting to do something about it, which is why most of us are here in the first place.
Cookies are delicious, and we all know that. But are 200-400 calories each worth it? Even if you're staying within your daily allotted calories, are you getting the proper nutrition out of those? Doubtful. Let's be honest, too many people here are whining about NOTHING. YOU know what you need to do in order to be successful. Sure, have your cheats. I will. But know your body too. I can GUARANTEE you that when you eat like crap, you look and feel like crap. When you eat properly, exercise, and KNOW that you are doing your best, and I mean digging deep and doing your absolute best, you will feel on top of the world, and this feeling will spill over into other areas of your life. Not only will you have confidence in yourself and your body, but you'll feel confident enough to pursue other dreams as well. Why does everyone love makeover shows? Because it's the mental, perceptual change, not just the physical, that affects people the most.
We're here to remain supportive everyone, but someone is here to play hardball. I guess that's me. If you're willing to, I'll push you harder than you ever have yourself, and I'll ask the questions you're afraid to ask yourself. Only you know if you're doing your best or not, but chances are, if you're debating the whether to eat this cookie or that cookie, the answer is just neither. Weigh out what you want more, long-term fitness or that cookie right now. If the cookie wins, then have it. But don't make it a habit, and don't come back whining about not losing any weight when you've "truly been trying," when in reality, you had 2000 calories worth of junk in the past week.
Paradigm shift needed on these boards...
AMEN!!! AND THIS IS THE MOTIVATION I NEED AND THE MOTIVATION I HOPE TO GIVE OTHERS..WOOT WOOT0 -
nice...motivating as all get out
thanks M 0 -
Neeterskeeter,
Welcome to the group. You do encompass what I am trying to convey to people. We all mess up, we're all human, and we all deserve treats. But that's what they are, treats. Even popular diet books recognize that people will eat something that isn't healthy every once in awhile.
People want something badly (to lose weight) but aren't willing to put in the work (give up some foods). Get REAL! I just want people to realize that it's not something you go on and off periodically, but it's the little victories, every day, that add up and will give you results. If you're giving 50%, you'll get 50% back. If you give 110%, you'll achieve what you never thought possible. With everyone seemingly focused on wanting immediate results, going hard is the only way to get there. If you half-***, most people won't see the results they want, give up, and chalk up the program to another failure, when in reality, they didn't put in full effort.
Locus of control- Is yours external or internal? Please, I hope it's internal, and I want people to realize that they have far more control than they think. Our bodies and our minds can be pushed and challenged to far more than what we expect, and that little extra demand is what makes us feel accomplished when we do achieve. This journey is more mental than physical, and if you realize you aren't there yet, then come back and visit when you think you're ready.0 -
You know what's funny, to me it used to be about the number on the scale and how I looked in a bikini etc... I would go on a crash diet and work out a lot and lose some weight. Then I'd mess up, get down on myself, and not pay attention/ care anymore, and the weight would come back on, and THEN some. I began to notice there was a gradual climb *uphill* with my weight... every time I lost it, I'd eventually put it back on and then some. If I kept up at that rate, I was destined to become big, I am sure of it.
For me the exercise came first... I started running/ working out consistently, every day, and saw big results. I began to think, if I could only be this disciplined and healthy about what I eat, there's no telling where I could go. I began to realize I knew very little about what I was putting into my body.
I really want to give a shout out to the clean eating board for their help and inspiration. I haven't been a clean eater for very long at all, but all of a sudden, I feel like something clicked. I don't mean to sound like it was a religious experience :laugh: but I really see now that I had issues with food.
Now I think about every choice and I feel so proud of myself for having control and awareness. And the funny thing, that I mentioned at first, is that it's no longer even about the number on the scale. It's not even about calories although of course I am more aware of how many calories are in what food and what sources etc. It's just that I feel good, I feel positive... just like you were saying, every other area of my life has become better. I've realized that there is no in-between, it has to be a dedicated commitment to health (which doesn't mean no cookies or beer, but certainly means much much less cookies and beer than I used to think was okay), or nothing else works.0 -
Personally, I try and follow these directions myself, although I should likely get off the chocolate issue.......cause this is the 100 cal treats I am having. But personally I feel like if I want to have the cake I will. Just really in moderation. After 1 month of doing this and understanding what it takes to get the cake off my belly I forgo that.........and will make it a real special treat.
But willing to do what it takes to get better.............
:flowerforyou:
Created by MyFitnessPal.com - Free Food Diary
Sassiebritches I think this is a good attitude. I've noticed that it's easier to make small changes and then you start to realize the overall scheme. Things just start to click, like it sounds like they're doing for you.
I love chocolate too and I've realized that one bite tastes just as good as 10 bites. For me it is just that one satisfying thrill and after that, it can get out of control. And I would never skip out on cake for my best friend's birthday, or an all-night drink fest on the rare occasions my sister visits me from out of town. But that's a *choice* and I think it's okay to choose that rarely if on a daily basis I'm choosing healthier options. Like you said, I realize what it takes to work off that cake and those alcohol calories and it is rarely worth it!
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Very healthy food is baked and sold at Local Healthy Coops also so many awesome recipes with clean ingredients to use to do one's own cooking and baking. Just throwing out that idea for those unaware:flowerforyou: When I am in the mood for a cookie I just pop in and pick one up and knew exactly what's in the ingredients.Curious....Are you really never going to eat another cookie or piece of cake the rest of your life??? Wow.
So yes, it is possible to really enjoy foods that you might have in the past when you clean eat, but they will not be the processed boxed/pkd'd ones with the old familiar brand names. They will taste SO MUCH BETTER and even more so we'll know we're keeping our bodies healthy while enjoying them.:drinker:
FC 0 -
mgullet needs her own website. imho.
we have these boards to discuss, to vent, to talk about whatever temptation is coming along, to help and support each other. if the tone of this site was as the OP portrayed, I would never have stuck with it this long.
I LOVE our community just like it is. all the venting, ranting, raving, support, advice,
"whiners" and all.0 -
It's as easy as not coming to this thread if you don't like it. We all have choices. Thanks!0
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I know we all have choices.
it just makes me sad that your choice is to be judgmental of a FREE service that so many of us have gained tremendous benefit from.
if you want a bootcamp/obsessive program, maybe this isn't the site for that?0 -
I think it's awesome when folks begin various threads, there are many to chose from. Nursing Mothers have one, Teachers have a support thread going now, SAHM as well, Vegetarians, Clean Eating threads, I think any thread can be started here short of Relgious/Political or slamming and I don't see mg's as fitting in any of those last 3 categories.It's as easy as not coming to this thread if you don't like it. We all have choices. Thanks!
I think it's awesome that you want to motivate and move folks forward toward a healthier place in our lives.
Cheers to you:drinker: :flowerforyou:
FC 0 -
FC, I love that you are always looking on the bright side. I agree with you, I just think the tone of the thread sounds judgmental: i read it as "if you aren't doing it the "RIGHT" way, then you don't measure up". that doesn't motivate, that is a discouragement. (IMHO, as always)0
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Unfortunately in the world of the internet, tone cannot be measured by words on a screen. I didn't feel it as being a judgemental post either. I just think we need to pull what we can from each and every post in forum, I personally like the idea of "cleaner" foods, which honestly I was obsessing over calories so much that I didn't even think about all the "better" choices I should be making even further. So I for 1 am very glad that this post was done.......now when I go shopping tonight I will be hitting the Whole Foods Market for many of the items I need.......
My thoughts.........:flowerforyou:
Created by MyFitnessPal.com - Free Food Diary0 -
FC, I love that you are always looking on the bright side. I agree with you, I just think the tone of the thread sounds judgmental: i read it as "if you aren't doing it the "RIGHT" way, then you don't measure up". that doesn't motivate, that is a discouragement. (IMHO, as always)
I kind of read it as more 'if you aren't doing it THIS WAY then you're not serious about being healthy.' Which is just as disheartening really.0
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