Mind Over Matter

In October, I entered a weight lose challenge at work.  I initially entered the challenge to lose this extra love weight that I gained.  When I first started the challenge I was coming in last each week during the weigh-ins.  It did not bother me, because I figured that I did not have as much to lose  and I would be fine (setting. Don't do it.  Be the best version of yourself always).  A co-worker pulled me aside before the 3rd weigh in and asked me what I was doing to stay in this challenge, to be a contender? Her pep talks, 5 am wake your ass up text messages, and daily water check-in's really helped and motivated me (everyone needs a cheerleader in their life.  Who is your cheerleader?).  I slowly began to shed pounds and feel healthier.  I even ran two 5k's and planning to run a half marathon next year (I put it out there so now I got to do it!).  

This post is not to brag or catch you up on what I have been up to.  I want to ignite you to challenge your mind.  YOU are stronger then you know!  You can do anything you put your mind and heart to.  Something that started out as a workout challenge has become a lifestyle for me.  It is no longer about loosing weight has it is more about being healthy.  Working out helps clear my mind (working out it about ME.  I love me). There are also times that I don't want to work out and I make sure not to beat myself up about it but regroup and set new goals (forgiving myself and moving on.  Not letting it mean more then what it really is).  

When I am running in a race, I am not running against the nine-thousand other runners but I am running against myself (I got this).  I am setting goals and speaking life/truth to myself (I am more then a conquer).  During my race I am encouraging myself and not settling for mediocrity.  Isn't that what life is all about!?  We are all running our own race and there are obstacles we will have to overcome, and we  have people that we will need to lean on.  We will also have to have faith and set goals.  Keep going!  Don't give up and remember beloved, that you can do anything you put your mind to!  Be strong! Be encouraged!

I look forward to seeing you again on Thursday!

Remember to live, love & share. 

Lo --

lacing up

I have a month until my thirty third birthday.  I am not afraid of turning a year older.  I feel like I should be getting better with age.  I did however, start exercising for two reasons:

1.  I want to be healthy                                                            

2. It was on my plan for 2014

This is what I know:

1. It is something you have to make a habit.  My friend told me that you don't recieve an applause for brushing your teeth.  It is something you do out of habit.  When you don't brush your teeth you feel bad, or different. Exercising is something that you just have to do.  It has to be a habit. ( I hope that makes sense).

2. One day at a time.  I know that I am not going to gain the six-pack over night, and I might crave sweets, but I have to realize that this is a journey.  It is about being healthy.

3. I also found an accountability partner, who I text when I finish working out and what I have eaten for the day.  Some people might feel like that is too much, but you have to know what works best for you.  I know that I will sometimes slack in this department so I need someone holding me accountable.

4.  The true test is when I go back to work and I feel lazy about going to the gym after work, or making  Ok, I have to change my language/attitude about working out.  When I go back to work I will be committed to going to the gym twice a week.  

5. I have started to plan out my meals ahead of time.  This is because, I don't want to eat junk food and want to make sure I am not hungry.

6. Working out helps me to clear my mind!

I will keep you posted with the journey.  Please share any advice you might have for this sister.  Stay tuned I will post a kale salad I love having for lunch.

Remember to live. love. share & lace up.

LO--