Blog #6 Challenges

Exercising and eating a health diet: two things that I am currently working on incorporating into my lifestyle. Fifth grade was around the time I first became self-conscious about my appearance and when I hit middle school that’s when I became aware of my weight. I thought I was overweight so I dieted by eating half a sandwich at lunch and drank a can of soda. That diet didn’t last long and it was not such a smart idea. Through high school I considered myself fat because I always compared myself to the popular, skinny girls, but more than likely I was at a healthy weight. After high school up to 2 years ago, my weight was stable for the most part thanks to working at a job which was physical in nature. Two years ago after my mom died, I drowned my sorrows by eating lots of food. Today I am still working on taking off that extra weight through eating healthier and exercising.

My challenge is having the drive to exercise after a long day at work. Some days I stay late at work so I just want to go home afterwards and relax. I did try going before work, but I have trouble rolling out of bed and I have to worry about getting to work on time. Other challenges are time, crowds, not being prepared, and going by myself. All of these can be taken care of with advance planning: scheduling time to go to the gym or park when it is less crowded, inviting friends to join in the day before, and packing gym clothes in advance and have it in the car. I’ve done all these things, but I end up with an excuse not to go. I have read and understand the benefits of exercise, but my enthusiasm to exercise is low.

There are a few challenges when it comes to eating healthier. It is easier and cheaper to go out and buy pre-made meals or takeout than cooking at home. Often I am exhausted after work and do not want to spend much time cooking. Lunch during the week is horrible because I make excuse to go out like I forgot to bring something or I want to get out of the office. Eating healthier alternatives is expensive at the grocery store or eating out. These are just excuses again and with careful planning I can achieve a healthier diet without spending a lot of money or loosing time.

If I keep up with my current level of diet and exercise, in 5 years I would probably face many health problems like diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, etc. My goal in the next five years is to be able to achieve a healthier lifestyle and keep up with a workout regimen. It is going to take a lot of work and effort but I know in the end it will be worth it.