Ever notice when you make a life change of any sort that every one has an opinion and they're not afraid to share it? This is not necessarily a bad thing. Part of the reason we go public with things is because we want support, validation, recognition and maybe even advice.
The outpouring of support that I've received from my friends and my husband has been fantastic. Everyone is in my corner and cheering me on. It helps motivate me. So, please don't stop and don't be afraid to ask me about it.
However, I've also been subjected to some of the most ridiculous bits of advice and some negativity as well. There are people in this world who really don't want you to succeed because if you do, it might suggest that something is wrong or lacking in their own lives.
And God forbid you announce that you are making a lifestyle change which includes losing 100 pounds. First, the look of shock on people's faces is kinda funny. It's like they are processing the question... "if she wants to lose 100 pounds just how fat is she?" Then, there is the assumption that you just won't be any fun anymore because you've given up everything in life that means anything.... Candy, Chips, Fried Foods, Alcohol... They don't want to give it up so they are like "really" ... are you sure? Do you really even need to lose that much weight? Then there are other well-meaning people who just want to tell you about the latest fad diet that they swear helped their cousin lose a ton of weight. It's exhausting.
So, I'll set the record straight...
- I'm still fun
- I'll still make yummy treats from time to time
- I'm not on a diet and I'm not banishing anything from my life forever. I am eliminating processed foods from my life 80% of the time so that 20% of the time I can indulge without guilt, remorse, diabetes, a stroke, or a heart attack.
- It's ok if you don't change a thing. What's right for me may not be right for you and that's ok. I'm not an expert on anyone or anything but what's right for me.
Cheers!
Margaret
Margaret Gina told me what you are doing and I think it is amazing!!!!! I have so much faith in you and I will be praying for you during this new journey you are undertaking!!!!! Good luck
ReplyDeleteEmily
YOU GO GIRL! Sometimes even the best intentions from others tends to get messy in the translations, so I'm glad you've set it all straight. I think what you're doing is great and truth be told, I believe you are giving lots of us motivation and encouragement that maybe we've needed for a long time. Keep up the terrific "life changes" that your making and please continue to keep us all posted. I look forward to reading your daily entries. Stay warm!!!
ReplyDeleteThanks Ladies! Emily - I'll take those prayers. I could definitely use them. Connie - it's nice to know that this is inpiring others because that's part of the point. I want people to know that it's possible.
ReplyDeleteKeep letting me know what you think. Comments are like gold!
Great post Margaret. Why do I get the feeling that I will be around you for some of the "20% of the time"?
ReplyDeleteTony - 4 races, Northern Agression New Year, Skully's crowning as 2009 Fantasy Racing Champeen, Southern Secession 2010 and Beach Fork 2010 pretty much make up all of my 20%. You'll have to help me not go "crazy". I'm not always the voice of reason.
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