Last week’s post was about surrendering and also taking action to get control of my “middle aged middle”. I joined Weight Watchers, began more diligently practicing good habits, upped my exercise, and carefully tracked my daily food intake and points.
During my first week I lost 1.8 pounds and 1/2 inch from my waist, and was quite happy with myself. My biggest realization was that I easily overeat when I don’t keep track, but once I keep track, I’m quite satisfied staying within my healthy eating plan. There’s enough flexibility within Weight Watchers for treats and a few dinners out without breaking with the program.
My second week wasn’t so great. Although I stayed within my point ranges, exercised and behaved myself, on the scale I gained 0.2 pounds and my waistline stayed the same. How could this be? Maybe it’s just a hormone flux or going to weigh in at 5:30 instead of my regular morning time. It could be many things, but it seemed so wrong because I had worked at losing.
There’s a common phrase in coaching that says “There is never failure, only feedback.” It reminds me that this is a journey that will take many weeks and be one where there may be setbacks along the way.
I have eaten a healthier, more balanced diet the past 3 weeks and I feel really well. My workouts have been easier and my knee is handling higher intensity activity well. That is progress that doesn’t show up on the scale or the tape measure, but it is nevertheless very real.
As you work on shaving inches off your middle, remember that the rewards may come in other forms along the way. Pay attention, be patient and track progress in forms other than weight or measurements, so that there’s always the feedback you need to keep moving and progressing toward your goal.
I’ll be witnessed on the scale again in the morning and look forward to sharing progress and feedback!
