How to Look and Feel Good

You look good....for a mother of 2…for having a 4 month old …for your age.

Whatever the phrase, you know where I’m coming from right? It’s that nice compliment, with a little caveat on the end. For me, that caveat, that lovely little Timbit™ of an excuse, completely de-rails all my healthy eating and working out for the week. A week might seem like a stretch for such a teensy morsel of goodwill but believe me I can make that caveat last through until Sunday breakfast donuts.

She’s right. I do look good for having had baby 4 months ago. And, really, since I had a C-section, it’s really like 3 months…. Man, I’m doing great! I can totally skip running today. And then all of a sudden I’m eating a dozen (whole oat flax dark chocolate chip) cookies with a glass of (red, it’s good for your heart) wine in hand. Listen, I’m all about positive body image and realistic expectations when it comes to diet and exercise. But, at some point, I think good self esteem can actually be bad for your health!

By Monday, I usually remember that I’m following a clean eating, portion control diet and am supposed to work out. I get back on track (or the treadmill) for at least a few more days. At least until the next compliment comes along. So, what’s the solution?

Well, I’ve realized I can’t set my self-esteem on anything other than plain old me. I can’t rest on my mom-laurels (aka muffin-top), or the genes that make my skin dark enough to hide the lines. I can’t use my life as an excuse. Sure, I have to balance my well-being with my lifestyle: The kids won’t eat broccoli and demand cheese. We celebrate all happy occasions with food. I have to squeeze my workouts in around work and family time. That’s all fine. But, when it comes to health and fitness goals, I have to focus on looking good and feeling good as me. Just plain, old, me. Because, let’s face it, when you run your reflection in the restaurant window, you want to look “Fantastic!” not “Fantastic, considering….”

Image Credit: Ambro / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

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