When Hard Work Works

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Monday, 05 July 2021

Written by Cheryl Richardson

This week I celebrated a milestone. In February, after enlisting the part of me that loves a good challenge, I decided to use what I learned from swimming in cold water to take on a new goal: Emerge from the pandemic in better health then when I went into lockdown.

I lined up the right support, started tracking my food, learned how to balance protein, carbs, and good fats, and set out on a journey that has left me twenty pounds lighter and feeling good in my body in a way I haven’t felt in years. Maybe decades.

Yesterday, when I stepped on the scale (which has now become a helpful ally), I was excited to see the number match a picture I’d taken earlier last year of the scale set at my intended goal weight. You did it, I told myself, your hard work worked.

What was the hard work?

Embracing a slow, steady process of incremental success instead of constantly jonesing for a quick result.

Focusing on feeding myself well rather than losing weight.

Drinking plenty of water, giving up nighttime snacks, and getting to bed at a decent hour.

Using the support and guidance of wise mentors who held me accountable with patience and love not perfectionism and a big stick.

Choosing to be curious about slip ups rather than shame myself for getting off track and seeing the need to get back on track over and over again (in the beginning) as a normal part of the process.

Saying no to sugar and yes to life.

In 2016, as my father faced serious health issues just before he died, I saw firsthand what happens when we arrive at our elder years in poor physical condition. My Dad was filled with life, had big ideas and strong desires, but his body couldn’t keep up. I hated seeing him like that and when he died, I vowed to live my elder years in a very different way. Now I’m grateful to be headed in that direction.

Years ago, when I traveled with Louise Hay, she often said that at the end of her life, she wanted her vibrancy and gusto fully intact. She used to say, “I intend to live life this way: Happy, healthy. Happy, healthy. Happy healthy. Dead.”

As I age, I value her wisdom in ways I didn’t totally appreciate back then. And today I’m ready to adopt her mantra.

Love,
Cheryl

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For the last twenty-five years I’ve dedicated my life to the practice of self-care because it’s good for people and it’s good for the planet. From personal experience, as well as coaching a diverse group of clients, I’ve come to understand that when we care deeply for ourselves, we naturally begin to care for others – our families, our friends, the environment, and the whole world – in a healthier and more effective way.
Please email: . © Copyright 2020. Cheryl Richardson, P.O. Box 13, Newburyport, MA 01950.