Learning to appreciate accomplishments

In case you haven't noticed I've been gone a while. I didn't fall off of the wagon, I jumped! I "hated" working out and was tired of the whole kit and kaboodle. I was discouraged with my progress and had convinced myself that any results I may have seen were not equaling the amount of work I was putting into this.

Now, after some time off, I've slowly climbed back up on the wagon to take off on my journey again. Some things I noticed...I only gained 5lbs. Well, not bad, you may think and it's true...that's not bad. But the amount of inches I have put on has me kicking myself. And I have come to a realization...don't take your accomplishments for granted.

I didn't realize until I had put the fat back on, just how much I had lost in my belly area, hip area, thighs, etc. I became focused on where I was (at that moment…still so far from my goal) and not on where I came from. I came from being 282 lbs, so overweight my belly rubbed against the steering wheel when I drove, so out of breath I couldn’t hike, play or dance. Where I was at (when I jumped off the wagon) was 40+ lbs lighter, able to drive unimpeded, and able to hike, play and dance. Unfortunately my little side excursion has set me back a little, but I’ve learned some valuable lessons…ones that will only help make me stronger and give me more tools to make it all the way.

I’ve learned that every single step made toward your goal, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, is still a step forward, not backwards. I need to focus more on what I have already accomplished rather than what I still need to accomplish. I guess it’s a little like walking forward while looking backward. LOL Usually not a recipe for success, but for me, where I am right now on my journey, it’s what I need to do.

While I feel like I don’t really deserve to be offering any sage advice, I highly recommend moving forward not backwards to reach your goals. Make one small change in your life that pushes you in the right direction. But don’t forget to look back and appreciate just how far you’ve come.