I know I keep referencing it, but my goal to take my fitness to the next level and gain some serious figure-competitor-level muscle has taken center stage in my life at the moment. I got an official fitness and nutrition plan, and I’ve been pushing myself to work hard/do well at both (although I’ve been far from perfect so far).
Some of it is easy.
Like having fun trying new things at the gym. Like being pushed to be extra-creative in the kitchen. Like eating this thick and delicious spiced sweet potato protein pudding while at work.
Some of it isn’t easy.
Like not knowing if I’m even coming close to pushing myself hard enough at the gym. Like trying to find confidence that the changes I’m making will produce the results I want. Like realizing I have a goal and I actually have to stick with it. Like eating food in specific amounts on a specific schedule and having to think about when/what I’m eating to a greater degree.
Some of it is fun.
Like telling my friends and family and finding lots of support. Like telling my coworkers and finding lots of, “This skinny little kid thinks she can do what??” Like having an excuse to finally buy a food scale.
This tofu weighs 4oz.
My cheap-o watch weighs 0.9oz.
This credit card offer I used to swat a fly weighs 0.8oz. Fly included.
What are the pros and cons of a goal you’re currently working on?
I love that you weighed the dead fly. Lol!
It gets even easier/more fun as you get used to the new plan. I wish we lived closer and could work out/eat crazy amounts of protein together.
Haha, we should totally find a gym in Chattanooga and meet halfway! And bring massive lunchboxes full of protein and salad with us…
Bet that lil bug had some useful protein for ya
And lots of fiber in the junk mail!
Hmm well one of my goals has been running more, and it’s a fun goal, but I think I messed something up in my hip… argh! So I’m trying to decide if it’s a “rest” injury or a “push through it” injury… ah!
I hate those! When in doubt–go with rest, but it’s still frustrating when that happens.
“Like not knowing if I’m even coming close to pushing myself hard enough at the gym.”
I hate this feeling. It’s such a fine line between pushing really hard and pushing to injury. The same level of effort can give you great results one day, but jack up your shoulder the next. Plus, I’m kinda high-strung, so I’m not the type of person that can go to the gym for an easy workout.
Try to remember that no worthwhile goal is achieved easily. Your ability to overcome the uncertainty and doubt is what really makes you a rockstar!
I have a lot of trouble with balancing hard enough with too-heavy-to-lift-properly. Ah, there’s a line there, I’ll keep working toward it. And thanks for the positivity!
I feel like if you’re taking the time to stop and question your effort in pushing for your goals, then you’re probably on the right track. Only someone who is focused and driven would do such a thing. That’s why you see way too many people plodding along on the elliptical and then chasing it with an unnecessary Gatorade. It’s sad. I have no doubt that you’re taking the necessary steps to get where you want to be–sequins!
Having a scale is so nice. Mine is so used and abused. I know it’s a he, but he doesn’t have a name.
Sweet potato protein pudding? Awesome.
Putting “Return to Sender” on that CC offer and leaving the fly on it? More awesome.
I must remember to keep my eye on the sequins! But seriously, thank you for the positive message. And sweet potato protein pudding is amazing. Especially when you thought you made a smoothie and get to the office only to realize there is no way you could get it up a straw
Woah… Recipe for the pudding please!?
I like the last picture of the mail with the dead fly.
A goal I’m working on? Becoming more chill. The pros are doing nothing sometimes and having free time. The cons = the same as the pros haha.
Honestly, it’s just potato+powder+fall spices+pinch of guar gum+enough “milk” to get the right consistency. It was going to be a smoothie, it just ended up being too thick
And I like that goal–and when then pros and cons overlap, haha.
Working on eating well (ongoing), and being a patient mother. When I am on track with both I feel super great and life is good.
Mmmm spiced sweet potato pudding sounds pretty delicious girl~!!
And that’s funny you weighed all this stuff–you’re a lot like me in that you’re random 
it’s a good thing! And right now….I don’t necessarily have a “goal” really, but I’m just always trying to be as active as I can through every kind of activity or routine I can find entertaining. Ah! But one thing that I was praying about and considering was checking into a group fitness instructing certification. But I’m not sure if it’s even the way to go yet, or if I can afford the workshops and all. 
To be honest, I never even thought of anything like that to be an option for me, but it could be a fun adventure!
Haha, and that’s only the smallest fraction of the things in my life that have now been weighed. And as for fitness teaching: You should do it! I was group fitness certified, and it was a blast! I let my certification expire ages ago, but it was so much fun.
That looks like a cool food scale! I love those! I do seriously love seeing your eats- sweet potato pudding looks good! And hey – I think you are pretty inspiring, and I have no doubt you will stick to your goal!
Mm, it definitely was good. And I just bought the only local scale I could find, since I didn’t want to wait for shipping. Ended up being a pretty snazzy one! Thanks, Jane
BAHAHAHAHA you made me crack up at that fly swatter envelope!!!
I think it’s so awesome you’re doing this in your life– prove those “she’s a skinny girl” thinkers wrong. You got this girl!
Thank you! Wanting to prove supporters right and negate-ers wrong is a huge motivation in this (and, I suppose, most any goal!).
This was a really interesting post to read, I can imagine your goals come with all sorts of new experiences and perspectives – I know you’ll make it all positive though!
I really want to get a gym membership now that I’m home for a while and get my exercise mojo back, I’ve really been struggling. I wish I could workout with you!
Thanks Sophie! And if you’re ever in the states, we’ll schedule a gym date
I need a scale! I always use my fist but you have inspired me to open the wallet and just buy one! We are all cheering you on! I love hearing about your journey Love and Shine CourtStar
Mine was actually pretty cheap–picked it up at Walmart of all places.
I like that you are embracing both the good and bad that comes with meeting your goals! I think the most important thing is to have faith…and always keep the big picture in mind. As long as you are sticking to your eating routine and pushing yourself, eventually you will see results. Maybe it won’t be as quick as you’d like, but it WILL all fall into place
The big picture is definitely important on this one! Thanks for the support and tips
I hope I can help with some of the not so easy stuff
I will reply to your email tomorrow, I promise!
Interesting post Allie and certainly got me thinking! I am currently working on accepting that I need to gain weight and I certainly weigh the pros and cons on a regular basis! In reality, there are more PROs to this, but in the moment, it is hard to remember that. Working on it though, as I know that results in a clear and better future
It would be so hard for me to be that specific both with choices and timing of eating. I’m amazed by you!
New goals are never easy – just take it a little at a time and keep your goal in front of you. You and Laura impress me, serious dedication! What helps me recently is sharing what I plan to do and knowing I have to share what I did. It’s great accountability!
Thanks Heather! And YES, definitely sharing/talking about helps–because then you actually have to do it ;D
I love having goals that I can work towards and keep me motivated, in fact I think I find it harder to get through a day if I am not working towards anything it makes me feel restless. But I see this as something I need to work on because I need a better balance! I can agree to it being difficult when you realize that you aren’t coming close to your goals. That pudding does look like a great advantage to this goal you are working on
I am losing weight at the moment. It is still going but it will be worth in the end. I already lost 5 kg in 3 months.
Indeed, new goals are ver easy. Hang in there!