Time for Change

Change happens when the pain of staying the same is greater than the pain of change. ~ Tony Robbins

I'm finally becoming aware of how even the smallest indulgence of sugar, oil or salt is affecting my health. The high numbers from a recent health screening coupled with how I have been feeling anytime I eat sugar or junk food has made me more mindful of what I am consuming and how it makes me feel immediately afterwards. I have always loved food. It has provided me a comfort that I have felt no other way, but the price I have paid for eating whatever I want is way too high.

Years ago I resigned myself to sitting on the sidelines of life. I told myself that I'm a loner anyway, but I know that's a lie. I would rather participate. I would rather be in a swimsuit than sweats and a sweater to hide the fat on my arms and legs. I would rather walk in the big stores and go to a dozen yard sales in a row than sit in the car and "read" because my feet and knees hurt too much to walk very far. I would rather visit with my family than "take a nap" because I'm too exhausted to get out of bed. I would rather be a shining example of radiant health to my family and community than stay home in shame because I can't conquer food addiction and the evidence shows all over my swollen body.

The words of Tony Robbins are ringing in my ears lately.  "Change happens when the pain of staying the same is greater than the pain of change". The pain of morbid obesity with chronic fatigue, high blood pressure, and diabetes is more than I can handle. I am ready to do what it takes.

I know I have been at the "I'm ready" crossroad a million times. I come to this place usually every January 1st when I make a resolution to "lose weight", but it's about so much more than that now. It's about quality of life. My body sometimes feels like I'm in my 80's instead of 50's. I know people in their 70's and 80's that get around better than I do. Ernestine Shepherd is a shining example. I'm not ready to be old before my time. There is so much life I want to live before it's time to check out. A few family members and friends have died recently of addiction and disease. It is a real wake up call.

One of my favorite internet marketing gurus, Ramit Sethi said something the other day that has stuck with me. He was referring to my procrastination of picking a path to make money online which is something I've always wanted to do so I can trade a sedentary job for an active life. He said, "Isn't it time?"

Yes, it's time!