Yesterday we began a journey toward weight loss at the doctor’s office where I work during the day. Thirty-five people dared the doorway of our office to step onto our biggest loser scale. Young and old. Men and women. They all signed their names to a new community. A community of people seeking the same thing: weight loss. We had lots of resources to give them, that would help them reach their goals. And a money incentive was a big part of it too.
It was an exciting day that really got me thinking about community. There are so many products with claims for weight loss success out there. Advertisements take advantage of the desperation of others to master their addictions and lose weight.
But there is nothing like a community; a group of people gathered together to fight the same addictions, develop the same disciplines, and push through the same exercises together.
Because in my opinion, the best way to live a better life, with a healthier body, and a skinnier waist line, is to develop the basics. No weight loss pills or crazy crash diets, though they may work when you want to lose weight fast.
Yet if you want to make a change, develop the basics.
Learn to cook healthier, train your taste buds to enjoy fresh vegetables and fruits. Discipline yourself to eat just one cookie or none at all. Develop a daily exercise routine. Master disciplines that are achievable and that you can continue for the rest of your life. And surround yourself with a community of supporters. Whether that is an exercise class or just your household or friends, share in the battle together. Swap recipes, hold each other accountable, jog together. And I believe we can achieve a lifetime of wellness.
