In my attempt to make this blog more about healthy living and my life in general, as opposed to “here’s what I’m eating!”, I’ve decided to do a little more sharing. Bear with me while I explore!
Doubt is something that rears its ugly face in everyone’s life from time to time. Whether you’re doubting the outfit that you put on, the workout you might have skipped in favor of drinks with your friends, or the food you’re eating, it can butt into your life when you least expect it.
Over the last 2 years, I’ve lost 30 lbs and maintained that loss with a healthy lifestyle. I have also, however, found myself being questioned by family, friends, and co-workers.
Before & After
“Are you still losing weight?”
“Are you eating enough?”
“I’ve never heard of that.. that’s not real food!”
After a while, it can really start to take a toll. I’ve definitely started doubting myself because the people around me question my lifestyle. And to me, that seems counterproductive. Why question someone who is trying to take pride in making the effort to live a healthy life when you wouldn’t outwardly question another person who stops at McDonalds everyday?
I’m not asking for praise when I break out my apple that I brought to a baseball game, knowing that I would want one [you bet your butt I did!], but I’m also certainly not asking for criticism either.
Salmon salad and an apple at the O’s game. It’s how I roll.
I’ll eat what I want to eat and your eat what you want. If you want to learn more about quinoa or chia seeds or coconut oil, ask me. I’m more than happy to talk. But if you’re going to tell me that I need to eat a piece of cake, keep it to yourself. I’m not going to tell you to go eat rabbit food.
Remember that we all make our own decisions based on what we feel is right for us. Seriously, have you seen how much I eat? Don’t question or criticize without truly understanding because you don’t always know the whole story as you think you may.
In a post from MizFit the other day, she says the following:
We create ourselves and our lives.
I dont have good physical genetics. My body prefers to be soft/not muscular. I watched women with better genetics gain muscle swiftly and easily. I came to a crossroads where I could either grow jealous or grow focused. I chose the latter. Resistance training taught me I am the sculptor of my body and my life. I may not achieve goals as rapidly as some— but if I work tenaciously & tirelessly I’m ensured of progress.
Not only can I relate to this statement, it really struck a chord with me and has stuck with me the past few days. I choose the latter too. I work hard and eat the way that I choose because it’s what I want and it’s what I enjoy.
Grow focused.
Confidence is something you’re born with. Doubt is something you learn. So it’s about time I forget the doubt and find the confidence because I’ve worked my ass off to get where I am and damnit, I freaking enjoy kale!
Why would anyone say no to that salad?!
Food for Thought
How do you deal with doubt from friends or family?
How do you deal with doubting yourself?
Barr & Table 