Snackercise

I've been working out 3 times per week for the last three weeks.
I've also been snacking and abusing carbs. So I've gained a total of ten pounds within the last two months. Epic. Fail.
Tomorrow is a new day and not only will I work out, I'm going back to what's worked for me-veggies, fruit and meat only. Nothing processed and if it's white it ain't right. So anything made with flour  sugar and white rice and white potatoes are all out of the question.
I have exactly 3 weeks to drop the ten pounds I've put on....with lots of exercise and low calories it is possible, although difficult. Stay tuned....

Lesson Learned: Snackercise is ineffective. Working out is only half the battle.  Weight loss starts in the gym. 

Inspiration vs. Motivation

Sometimes the Doritos be calling my name! Sometimes I don't want to work out. Sometimes I want to just slip into old habits. That's when motivation kicks in.

The Will Power Myth

I watched an episode of Dr. Phil today and he said something that really resonated with me.  He said that will power is when you're trying to squeeze into a dress for your sister's wedding. Will power is when you're taking diuretics and starving yourself for the short term goal. Losing weight is and keeping it off is about making a lifestyle change. Well Phil, I couldn't agree with you more.
    The notion that all it takes is will power irritates me. In fact, it's insulting. It's like saying all you need to do this is exactly what you lack. Where is this will power supposed to come from? If one doesn't have it to begin with then how can we assume they're just not exercising it. No, the real issue is that they're not exercising. Life is about choices. Weight loss is no different.
   Phil (yes, I can drop the Dr. cause I knows him like that) also discussed the four stages of motivation, which he calls:

                                    "4 Stages of Readiness"

Stage 1: Compelled by Authority
Stage 2: Comply to Escape Criticism
Stage 3: intellectually Aware of Need to Change
Stage 4: Mentally & Emotionally Self-Motivated for Change

    Its funny because for months a friend and I have been saying we're "in transition" although we don't always define what that means or applies to. Hearing that there really are stages of motivation was such validation. So it's not only acceptable to conclude that fitness/weight loss is a journey, it's actually factual. Knowing there are stages means it's easier to understand the good, bad and ugly that come with the territory. There are ups and downs to living your best life. The question is, are you ready for the ride?

What about you? Which stage are you in? Do you believe will power is a myth?