Enjoying the Journey

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When we think about reaching a weight-loss or health goal, there’s often this idea that once the goal is achieved, we will have “arrived.”

Kind of like checking something off a list. Done. Don’t need to think about that anymore.

But there is no finish line.

You don’t arrive at your happy weight or health goal and then put your feet up and say, “Well, that was fun. Let’s revert back to what we were doing before when we were struggling.”

Everything that got you to that point will need to be integrated, to a certain degree, as you travel forward.

So what does that mean?

You better enjoy the things that got you there, and certainly not hate them!

If the methods weren’t sustainable, the results won’t be either.

It doesn’t mean that you can’t experiment with different tools and strategies along the way to see how you like them and if your body responds.

Gather information. Collect data. Keep up what works for you.

But be kind to yourself. Check your expectations.

Are they realistic?

Where does your weight naturally fall when you’re sustainably incorporating your healthy habits, eating to hunger and satisfaction, feeling healthy and happy in your body, and enjoying life?

Let that be your guide rather than an arbitrary number on the scale.

This is where I like to say (and I know it sounds somewhat cheesy, but), fall in love with the journey or the process.

Celebrate all of those “smaller” milestones along the way.

Maybe you start to feel better physically, mentally, and emotionally; you have more energy, your clothes fit better, your palate changes, you’re more in tune with your hunger and are better at deciphering the physical from the emotional, you’re no longer preoccupied with food – because you know it’s always there for you tomorrow. There’s no need to “get your fill” today.

You begin to feel empowered around food, not controlled by it.

There may be “detours” along the way when you transition through a different life phase or your priorities shift.

But you’ve gained an inner knowing and confidence that you don’t risk falling too far off course because you know the directions to get you back on track if you want.

You also know what you do in a day, a weekend, a month, or even a year, could never take away all the hard work you put in to get you to where you are now.

In the grander scheme of things, the scale tips in favor of all of those healthy habits that have been integrated into your life.

And it’s not to say that the journey doesn’t come with its share of discomforts.

If food is your primary coping mechanism (or source of pleasure) when you’re sad, lonely, or stressed, there will undoubtedly be some discomfort as you go about pursuing change.

This is why it’s important to find and cultivate non-caloric sources of pleasure as well – because if your life is lacking – food (and alcohol) will be an easy substitute to turn to.

Enjoy your food, yes.

But make an experience out of it – beyond just the food.

Connect. Celebrate.

I’ve always resonated with French culture, where snacking is sparse, but meals are thoroughly enjoyed and revered.

Find your personal sweet spot.

For me, I’ve landed in a place where I desire to take care of myself and feed myself nutritious foods that support my health and wellbeing, and allow me to thrive. But I also make plenty of allowances to include other “fun foods” that bring me joy.

Having my own set of signature guiding principles that “keep me on track” while living and enjoying my life at the same time has been paramount to my own journey.

Strike that balance in a way that makes sense for you.

Happy travels!

Elaine

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