Taking the Next Step

Bethany has been telling me for months that I need to change my diet. Being stubborn, I have basically ignored her and continued on my merry way. Now, I am not saying that I have not been thinking about it, I am just saying that I have been very stubborn and resisting change.

She told me I needed to take some vitamins. I went and purchased them, took them for a couple of days, and forgot. She said I needed extra protein. I asked for suggestions, purchased it, used it, ran out, and didn't buy more...You see, there is a pattern here. It is the same negative pattern I found myself in many times before...do it for a little while and then give up.

My muscles have been screaming for me to provide them with the fuel they need to do the things I am asking them to do. I noticed in May that I was not progressing the way I wanted. I keep getting hurt. Bethany has been faithful to find answers and has been patient with me as I struggle to make better choices. She said something to me the other day that really made me think. I cannot remember her exact words, but it was something similar to this: You have stayed the same for months, it is time to take that next step.

The next step...hmmmm. I didn't really like hearing it, but I knew the second it came out of her mouth exactly what she was trying to say. I cannot expect my body to continue doing the exercise if I am not willing to eat better. My body is not going to respond like some of the (what I call) more advanced campers, unless I am disciplined enough to change some things. I want to be an advanced camper too. I want to be able to demonstrate during the workout and know that my form is right and that my body is able.

I am very proud of the progress I have made since January. I am now 7 months into a journey to be the best me possible. If I am not willing to change, how can I be the best me? I think that the main reason I have resisted a change in my diet is that I really like food. I have an addiction to something that I am not able to put down and never touch again. This addiction is one that developed over many years and for many reasons. Food has been my friend for most of my adult life. I am starting to realize that I have to see my relationship with food differently. It has become a toxic relationship. So, starting today, I am promising to change. I will take my vitamins, eat more protein, and try to make more positive food choices than negative ones. This means that I am going to need support and encouragement.

It is time for me to take the next step on this journey. I will keep you posted. Feel free to offer healthier/cleaner food options for me to try. I know some of you are clean eating experts. I am jumping in, don't let me drown!!!

Be blessed!