Challenge 3

[Guest guest]

Hey Ladies, it's been a while since I've posted. I finished up

Challenge 2 two weeks ago. I did the wise thing for me this time and

took a two week break instead of one and I feel refreshed and

renewed. Started 3rd 12 week challenge this week (did some earlier

ones but this is the 3rd full 12 week challenge) and I remember what

Renna said about the 3rd time is the charm! So although all the

challenges were important I continue to tell myself " this is the

challenge that matters, I will be in a 10/12 at the end of this

challenge " Sometimes I get myself in a tizzy over what I want my

goal size to be when I need to just focus on getting through this

day and whatever size I am when I get to the end of the 12 weeks is

what size I am. There will be more challenges. Its amazing how we

have to talk to ourselves daily as we would talk to a friend! And we

should be our own best friend instead of our own worst critic! For

those new on the board, I started the BFL lifestyle July 16, 2008. I

have gone from a 16 to a 14. You would think after a year I'd be at

goal, but I have not followed the nutrition part 100%. I'll do good

for a while and then something happens. So you may be wondering how

in the world have i stayed on it this long without reaching my goal?

Well it makes me " feel " great and I have learned that it's about a

lifestyle change. That consistency is the key not perfection. I have

always been an all or nothing type person. This is the first time

I've found balance and it's the first time I've followed a program

for longer than a month! I know the day will come when I made that

connection in my mind concerning the eating plan but until then I

just enjoy each day. I'm just thankful to be motivated and

determined still. Even folks that have seen me in the gym have told

me " we have to give it to you, you are committed " that made my day!

So I guess my point for those who have been dealing with this weight

thing for years is to enjoy the journey, find other ways of

measuring your success, enjoy balance instead of " all or nothing " ,

and talk yourself out of negative thoughts and emotions.