(Image Credit)
Happy Thursday everyone!
So today’s post is very close to my heart, and I feel like I needed to talk more about it. It’s been awhile!
I’ve been somewhere twice this week that I used to go to almost every day up until the end of my senior year. Being in that environment sparked some interesting memories for me, and as I looked around at everyone else, I realized that this is where it all began.
For those of you who remember, the last time I talked about my personal food story was when I tried to help you to break up with your scale. Now, I feel like talking about it again. I’ve been looking through old pictures and found it amazing how much I’ve changed over the past year.
I’m stronger, happier, and healthier.
Last year I was constantly irritated, food-obsessed, and tired. That’s what a restrictive diet will do to you…however, I’ve learned a few things since then.
- What you believe is true is NOT always the truth
- Your thoughts are influenced by those around you
- Being healthy is WAY better than looking a certain way
Let me ask you a question, can you spot the differences between these two pictures?
I’ll tell you what I see….
On the left: May 2014; A girl who is secretly terrified of gaining any weight behind her smile.
On the right: May 2015; A girl who is healthier, stronger, and smiling because she is truly HAPPY with her progress.
Believe it or not, last year I used to be scared of looking how I do on the right. But the truth is, do I really look any “bigger”?
NO. Absolutely not.
The only thing I look is HEALTHY and at a normal weight. I used to live in a false reality that my every action was being scrutinized by others, that if I gained even a pound the whole world would notice, that I could not make one mistake because other people would criticize me. In all reality, people spend far less time thinking about us than we think. Of course, it is normal and okay to want to look good, but not at the expense of your health! These days, I value having muscle and being fit over being thin.
If you can learn to love yourself, you will also learn to love others. It is not an easy process, especially if it has been forever since the last time you actually did love yourself, but it can be done. 🙂 Recognizing your own progression is a HUGE step in the right direction. It means you are taking the first step towards loving yourself and taking action against your demons. When I finally reached out for help, it was scary, but so so worth it. A big thank you goes out to my nutritionist, Lori!
“In any given moment we have two options: to step forward into growth or to step back into safety”.
– Abraham Maslow
My “safety” would’ve been me falling back into my old patterns. You’re stronger and better than that.
I can only hope that by sharing what I have learned, I will help somebody else who is struggling.
Remember, you are not alone. Give yourself grace and just try your best. Not every day will be easy, but it will be worth it.
I promise. <3