I have never truly had a weight problem, but I do watch my weight daily.  Here’s why.

Growing up I had a healthy metabolism and maintained a healthy weight.  I was a size 6 when I graduated from high school and am now a size 4. 

About 10 years ago, while I had the job that required suits every day, I decided that I needed a new pair of jeans to wear that weekend to a football game at the local university.  I didn’t wear jeans that much and the ones I had must have shrunk just hanging in the closet because they no longer fit.  So I went shopping during my lunch break.  I tried on several different designer lines that I could always count on, but nothing fit.  When purchasing new suits at that time, I would frequently have to buy a size 8, but all my size 6 suits still fit, so I was not surprised when I had to try size 8 jeans, but I could not get them up over my hips!  I went back to work very frustrated and thinking, “I can’t believe how small they’re making jeans these days!”

Then, in the middle of the afternoon, it occurred to me:  Oh, no!  Could I have needed a size 10?    I remember my mother telling me many times as I was growing up, “Never let yourself become a size 10.  Once I became a size 10 I could never get my weight back down.” 

My mother has struggled with her weight as long as I can remember, and I did not want that to happen to me.  So, heeding her advice, I went on a calorie-restricted diet and lost my extra weight.  I will share the details of that diet in a future post.

I weigh at least every other day and make sure I stay between 123 and 128. (I’m 5’6”.)  It’s easier to take it off if you monitor regularly and have only a few pounds to lose.  I exercise and watch what I eat to maintain that range. 

Many women I know give up on their bodies and themselves upon the first inconvenience.  Taking care of yourself is not always easy, but it is worth it.  Don’t give up; you are worth it.

I never give up because I know that we are in control of our lives.  No one else is going to take care of me, so it is up to me to take care of myself; physically, spiritually and emotionally.  It is simply a matter of making a conscious decision to be healthy by making healthy choices a part of your routine.   To stay mentally alert, focused, and happy, I read (and write).   When I encounter a problem of any kind, I start doing research on how to overcome it.    I am 100% responsible for my life.  Who else should be?  God gave us a mind and control over that mind for a reason.  He wants us to be healthy and happy, but we have to want it as well.

Posted under Inspiration, Motivation