"People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing.. that's why we recommend it daily."  ~ Zig Ziglar

Hey Ladies, 

Motivation sometimes waivers this time of year, it is cold, we are tired and sometimes a little depressed because of the weather.  Don't let it get you down!  Think about your goals daily - each morning before you get out of bed, remind yourself what you are doing and why.  Keep those goals in the front of your mind all day.  Each time temptation comes to you, ask yourself; will this take me closer to my goals?  If it won't, is it worth it?  Would you rather enjoy that brownie for 30 seconds, or reach your goal sooner and healthier?  Losing weight and getting healthy is hard work - as you can see by how much you push yourself during our class. 

Fueling your body with what it needs will make each workout more productive.  You will have more energy and you will recover much quicker.  Eating protein will help with recovery.  Fresh fruits and veggies give you energy that lasts.  Sugar may seem like it gives you energy, but it is short lived.  You will feel worse after that sugar high is gone, and most likely, it will leave you wanting more.  That is not a good cycle for your body to be on!  Sugar in your diet packs in the calories, tells your body to store fat, and leaves you feeling sluggish.

Motivation and support go hand in hand.  You have my support 100%.  Everyone in the group is cheering you on to reach your goals.  Do you have the support of your friends and family?  If the answer is no, then talk to them, tell them why you are doing this.  Tell them about your goals, and why you want to reach them.  They will understand as you start feeling better, have more confidence, and are happier and more positive.  Remind them that a happier you equals a happier them!

If you already have the support of your family, use it!  Ask you husband/partner/ or friend to give you encouragement each day, and vocalize when they notice changes in your body.  Wouldn't it be great to start the day with a "Honey, You look great!  Your waist is slimmer, and I can really see your curves!" Or from your friend at work, "Your hard work is paying off, you look great in those pants."  I know my day is always better when I feel good about myself! 

If your children are still at home, get them involved.  Let them know why you are changing the way you eat.  Tell them that the whole family is getting healthier, and get them involved in the kitchen.  If veggies are a new thing in your home, have your kids help prepare them.  Children are much more likely to try new things if they were involved in the cooking process. 

Starting off eating healthy at a young age will benefit your children so much.  A healthy lifestyle from the start will protect them from diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity - what better gift could you ever give them?  They may be resistant at first, but when they see how healthy and great you are, they will come around!

Keep up the hard work.  When you feel your motivation starting to waiver, use the resources that you have available!  Talk to those supportive friends and family members.  Call someone from our exercise class.  Get out and do something healthy!  Call me if you have to.  I will be there for you anytime you need me.  Your success is my success, and I want you to be exactly what you want to be.  YOU CAN DO IT!!  I am so proud to be working with you all.  Keep up the hard work!   

Have a great day, and don't forget to smile!  Emily