Last week was the halfway mark for those attending the "Drop 10 in 10" weight-loss management program at Evangelical Community Health Education in Lewisburg. The chapter in our guidebooks was titled "Smart Choices Make the Difference."
Instructor Jim Persing asked us to consider three questions:
What positive changes have you made?
What habits do you still need to work on?
What obstacles are standing in your way of success?
I certainly haven't mastered every technique that we've discussed, but I am encouraged by my progress. I read labels more, make a conscious effort to think about portion sizes and really try to curb how much I consume during a meal. I've made healthier choices when I eat out - or in, and I recently cleaned my cupboards of certain boxed foods that I'd like to avoid.
Throughout the program the instructors urge, "It's one step at a time. Don't get overwhelmed."
They suggest we make a plan, identify and prioritize our own individual goals, and make those goals as specific as possible.
Currently, my goals include sticking to individual portion sizes and eating more fresh foods. Establishing a meal schedule has been incredibly helpful.
"It's not easy making these changes," Persing said last week. "It's not easy sticking with it."
But I've already noticed some very positive changes. I feel less anxious and stressed. I think that's because I'm focused on a whole new set of challenges and I have less time to worry about other things.
My digital scale needs a new battery, so I haven't been able to weigh myself, but I can tell that my clothing fits better.
And, last week, my doctor told me I lost 11 pounds since the last time I was at her office.
These small improvements keep me focused on my goals and eager to go to my next "Drop 10" class.
