It’s been almost three months since I started my eight week challenge, and almost seven weeks have past since my last update. That’s almost long enough to do the challenge twice. I have to admit that the journey has been long and challenging, while at the same time very fun, liberating and exciting.
At the beginning of the challenge, my goal was to shed some pounds for a trip to the Dominican Republic. While we didn’t go to Punta Cana, we did still head to a beach destination. We found ourselves washed up on the shores of Oahu again, taking in Waikiki in all its glory. The goal was to have the confidence to take my shirt off and feel good about myself and while I didn’t end up where I ultimately wanted to be physically, I was still comfortable.
I learned a lot during the process, both about myself as well as my lifestyle. I learned that I love beer – it’s true. It’s also not the best thing to love, so I’ve cut back significantly. Then there’s the rest of the diet. While I had intended to work with a nutritionist, I just didn’t keep up my end of the deal. I was hoping for meal plans, items laid out each day with full instruction. I like easy and that’s not something we had agreed upon so I lost out big time (though I still did get some helpful information that I’ll share at some point).
Additionally I learned that, much like in setting goals, I need to set realistic expectations of myself and of others. The intent of updating the site every day was great and at first it was manageable. Then my priorities shifted and while my health is a priority, writing about it necessarily isn’t.
On the plus side of things, I’m back working the same program that my Calgary based mobile personal trainer worked on for me and have recently returned to the gym – thankfully. I enjoy working out and maintaining a level of physical activity. It just charges me up for some reason.
And with this post I’ll close the first 8 week challenge. I’m not sure what I’ll go for next, but am open to suggestions. I’m contemplating something around preparing for a full marathon in eight weeks…something that sounds pretty stupid but likely quite doable. I’d love to hear your thoughts and thanks so much for having faith and checking in every now and then. It’s been a blast.
Photo © Marshall Stevenson.
