Sometime this month, January, I decided that I needed to up my fitness game in 2018 and do a little transforming.
Showing my belly uncovered is something I don’t usually do, well I have revealed my stomach in the past, but I had promised myself that since I am old enough to be someone’s grandmother, I need to stay covered.
But, I showed my body anyway. I want to document my progress, and my purpose is to show you that anyone can transform and it doesn’t matter how old you are. You probably already know that, but to see someone do it is always motivating.
Below is a series of photos I took on January 6th of this year. I did not post to social media immediately because it wasn’t my intention to post. But about nine days later, I decided to post the photo collage.
I posted the above photo because I want to inspire others.
There is a quote that says:
How I Gained Weight
I gained weight because I ate too much and moved very little. Yep, that’s the reason why I gained weight.
I am a firm believer in the calories in, calories out concept. So, if I am eating more than I am moving, I am sure to gain weight. It’s only a matter of time.
Here’s What I’m Doing
There are actions that I must take so I can reach my fitness and body transforming goals.
I am:
- embracing where I am
- focusing on now
- loving every ounce of who I am
- staying consistent with workouts
- tracking my food (macronutrients and calories) on My Fitness Pal
- wearing my fitness tracker device (it’s a motivational tool)
- doing a little meal prepping (a little because I cook certain foods in advance like sweet potatoes, chicken breast, rice, and protein muffins)
- trying to get adequate rest (I struggle with this)
- taking things slow
- being patient.
Focusing on the Now
Focusing is one of the most critical actions. Why? Because focusing on the now keeps us in the game and the challenge.
When we do not focus on where we are now, we start wishing and hoping, instead of doing, being and believing.
Final Words
I share my journey because I want to inspire you and to show you that anything you want to do is achievable.
Do not let anyone tell you that you cannot get fit because you are too old. And do not allow yourself to get caught up in fad diets or in having the perfect body.
When you get caught up in things outside of yourself, you will end up taking the focus off yourself, which can lead to failure and unhappiness.
Get caught up in being the best version of you that you can be and accept your body at whatever weight you are currently. Now that makes for a lasting and healthy relationship with yourself.
Discussion: What are you doing to improve your health and fitness game this year? Do share.
Evelyn Parham is a mind body eating coach and writer in Greenville, GA. She blogs about well-being, personal growth, and beauty. Learn more
We have something in common, the mission of getting healthier and a bit trimmer. Started the gym on Sept. 27, soon two months of aggressive workouts. 30 pounds off is my goal and lower blood pressure. I even started boxing 3 days a week, a lot different at 64 than at 18. going to the gym 6-7 days a week,,,2 hrs each day. I feel great, am retired and made no other commitments . best time off ever. By the way,, ‘i’ve burned my instructors nose a few good times. I think I can meet my goals in 3 1/2 more months.
Following you on You tube has made a big difference.. I want to know the why …behind things I do and you never disappoint on delivering that!
I am refusing to believe that i cant change and be a better version of me… mind and body and Spirit… im eating better and moving more and asking for and accepting help…
Hey, Sherry!!
Thank you for letting me know, you’ve made my day!
As long as you have breath in your body, you can always transform/change. It might take a little longer than you want, but just know that you will see the change you want to see in due time.
Hang in there and don’t you ever, ever stop or give up. You can do this!!
Take care!!
I’m with you, Evelyn! I just can’t post my pictures … yet. 🙂 #awkward!
Hey Ms. Kissie!
Yeah, it is awkward. I saw a lady who just posted her pictures without showing skin. She was fully clothed and it wasn’t hard to see that she made progress.
I guess it just depends on how much of you, you’re willing to show.
Thanks for stopping by and it’s good seeing you here! 🙂
Have a wonderful day!!
You achieve everything that’s been on your mind & isn’t letting you sleep until you grab it by the throat.
How inspiring your post is. And I’m sure, you’re going to have an amazing transformation & you’d continue to motivate everybody else like you’ve always been doing.
Hi Ashvini!
Love the way you put it. “Grab it by the throat.”
Glad this post is inspiring.
Thank you for stopping by and commenting!
Enjoy your day!
Evelyn, you are so motivating! Age is just a number and doesn’t define who you are! That is my personal belief. I gained some weight too and can slowly see it leaving and I feel great! Getting back into my strength training regimen with Chalene Johnson. Eating clean and healthy foods, and drinking my green smoothies. You were just what I needed to get motivated, thank you!
Hi, Carolyn!
Thanks for sharing what you’re doing! You are an inspiration to me.
Age is just a number. 🙂
I appreciate you stopping by and commenting! Have a great day!