Ah, November. The leaves are turning, you're contemplating when it's appropriate to start listening to Christmas music and the holidays are just around the corner. 'Tis the season to eat, drink and completely fall off the fitness wagon! But before you go overboard on the pumpkin flavored everything (seriously, everything!) read on. Temptations will always be there, and treats and cheats aren't always a bad thing. Just remember to keep it balanced and make your health & fitness a priority, no matter the season! 10. Snacks Aren't Optional You work hard and know how essential it is to eat right. And that certainly doesn't mean being on a 'diet' or starving yourself! You're known to have at least one protein bar on you at all times and a whey protein packet and 'meal management bag' (ha! aka lunchbox) are never far away. Hungry often = angry for many fitness devotees so we're never without something to munch on "just in case". 9. Gains Galore Walking up the stairs at work, carrying your child on a hike, even cleaning the house! All of these things keep getting easier and easier as you continue on your fitness journey. You're never winded and taking an extra walk or set of stairs never causes you to break a sweat. Your body is used to physical activity and surprise, it loves it! 8. Wonder Woman Status You'll start to be know as "the strong one". People might ask you to move furniture and they'll no longer inquire if you need help carrying your groceries. You're strong and you look it! Lend your new skills with pride- you earned your new reputation with pure dedication! 7. Shopping Spree With all your hard work comes progress. And that means you're shrinking in all the right places! Between dropping fat and sculpting muscle your old wardrobe might not be cutting it anymore. Treating yourself to a new item that looks and feels great is a perfect way to celebrate your success! Updating your wardrobe might take time so be gradual when you begin replacing. Go at your own pace as you continue to hit the gym- there's no stopping you now! 6. Healthy Body = Happy Body Clear skin, restful nights, an overwhelming sense of calm. What's going on? As you focus on eating better and exercise your body will begin to respond in nearly miraculous ways! Your sleep quality improves and you benefit from endorphin releasing activities like weight lifting or high intensity interval training. Sure you look better, but feeling amazing is the best part of getting fit! 5. "No Pictures, Please!" At the gym, in the office, even at your kids school. People notice your progress and dedication, and they're going to ask you about it! You might even start to feel like a small town celebrity now that your dedication is on display. Be prepared to get questions about your nutrition and workout routine- you look amazing and people want to know your secrets! Being complimented is one thing but knowing you're a role model for others? Priceless! 4. Grocery Store Obsession Food shopping isn't a chore anymore, it's a celebration! You relish making your list and choose delicious, healthy and nutrient dense options for your cart. You indulge wisely with treats you truly love and fuel your body with good for you and great tasting choices! Don't be surprised if grocery day becomes a weekly (or daily!) holiday for you. 3. Weight is Just a Number As you begin to put on muscle and burn fat you will begin to recognize that working out isn't just about looking amazing. It's about feeling happy and proud in your body- a feeling that most of us haven't had before! The number you see on the scale (if you even weigh yourself at all!) is just that. It doesn't have anything to do with your self-worth and it certainly isn't a marker of your success! 2. Balance it Out At the beginning of your journey you're strict and follow your plan to the letter. Now that you're maintaining your new lifestyle it's time to be flexible again. It's great to plan and have an idea of what you'll eat and do each day but life isn't always easy to schedule. Learn how to roll with the punches as you reach your goals and you'll be rewarded with a full, happy and healthy life! 1. The Key to Happiness
Fitness isn't just about the outside. It encompasses everything from our self worth to how we view the world. Now that you've taken accountability for your health you'll notice that as your body begins to feel better so will your mind. Less stress, more mindfulness and a deeper appreciation for your health are all great side effects to getting fit! Keep up the great work, you have a long life to live- make it a happy one!
4 Comments
Christine
11/8/2016 01:01:56 am
Lily, this is great! I love all the little pictures in between :-)
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Mary Forristal
12/17/2016 09:03:10 am
I love the pictures, but even more I love your outlook on life. You have been that way since I first met you at 1 1/2 years old. You have always been a happy heart.
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About the AuthorLily lives in the Bay Area of California with her husband. She loves to lift heavy, watch vintage movies and cheer on her fellow warrior queens! Archives
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