Being Brave in May

I’m going on a diet. I know that sounds like something I’ve said before, and it may not sound that brave. But here’s the deal, I’m announcing – where usually I’ve not shared the idea because hey, then if I fail, no one will notice. Also, I’m inviting and asking for help, ideas, support with this. When usually it’s a solo game, and I don’t really like help or people telling me what to do. In fact, I’ll usually do the opposite if I’m told what to do just to be stubborn (I heard that: pah! You say!) But I will try to stay open to anything that comes my way.

                So, 1^st issue is money, I can’t afford one of those plans where you pay an insane amount of money just for people to talk at you, weigh you then charge even more for the ‘planned meals’. The gym is also out for now – though I did get over my dislike of the one I tried, I know not all places are the same, & I just can’t justify it right now. And one of those ‘shake diets’ tried to kill my mom so let’s just stay away from all those shakes and pills that do more harm than good.

                Nope, this is going to take old fashioned work & will power – damn it! :p And a couple of visits with a personal trainer to work out a plan (which I did justify because I decided I would need some professional help to start and shockingly, was cheaper than a gym membership.)

                The 1^st plan of attack will be tracking everything in and everything out (ew, I know) and everything I’m doing physically. I had an app. on my phone, but it takes too long to load each time I open it, so it quickly got ignored. I tried a notebook, and that may have worked before my life was on a smartphone but now I just forget about it. Besides, I like the subtly of only pulling out my phone to keep track. (Try pulling out a little notebook throughout the day and see how many people question it.) Nobody cares what you’re doing with your phone. So I created my own tracking system on my phone, it may not make sense to anyone else, but it’s not for them. It’s also the same method I’ve been using for my budget every day and when I go on trips. It’s helped a lot, and I’m already used to using it so I have high hopes.

                Anyway, recently I’ve had a couple of big wake up calls (and a couple more smaller ones) – it’s time for change and change scares the hell out of me. I need help (it’s the 1^st step, right?) So I’m being brave – I’m starting a new lifestyle.