For those that know me... you know my story. For those that don't... here it is...
I started my weight loss journey at nearly 260 pounds. I was unhappy, constantly giving of myself until there was NOTHING left. I felt tired, ugly, angry, and frustrated. I had two beautiful kiddos, yet I felt like I wasn't giving them the best "me"... I didn't know how to say "NO" to anything - commitments, work, toxic people, food (lol) and I was miserable.
My cousin's husband was deployed to Iraq and she invited me to go to a Zumba class. I thought she was nuts and said "no way am I letting others see me dance!" (The few times I did say "no"... lol). She persisted and I went to my first class. ... aggravated and nervous. I LOVED IT. Af the end, I was sweaty but smiling.
I would continue going to Zumba over the next 6 month and joined an eating program, focusing on healthy proteins, veggies and fats... complex carbs... etc.. I lost 85 pounds in about 8 months through eating right.
There have been detours along the way - injuries, LIFE, surgeries. Having a hysterectomy and not taking care of myself as I should led to a 20 pound gain, but the fact is - I'm not giving up.
How many times, as women, do we put others above ourselves? Do we focus on being wives, mothers, employees, daughters, friends... and not give any time to us? Why do we feel guilty about spending time at the gym or going to a fitness class for even an HOUR during the day? I once heard "You can't fill from an empty vessel"... so true.
Now, I am happier, ... I take time for myself and my kids see the value in being yourself, treating yourself with respect and picking yourself up and dusting yourself off when you fall. Strive for perseverance, not perfection... grace not judging... and happiness not hurt.
Just a few thoughts... or two... today.