I have to admit I’ve been delaying in sending this letter to you. My intention was to share my thoughts on the “New Year’s Resolutions”. As the weeks passed, I felt like my inbox was getting bombarded with information about setting goals for the new year. I wanted to share my personal thoughts on this topic and not get lost in others’ opinions.
Although I love the freshness of the new year, I often feel like hibernating rather than hustling in January. My major goal for 2014 is to “be happy.”
I know that might sound boring and Pollyannaish, but the truth is, most of the goals we set have the underlying intention of increasing our happiness.
Think about it. Why do we want to lose weight, get in shape, make more money, improve our relationships, go on more vacations, or find a new job? Because we believe we believe achieving these goals will make us happier.
If you are reading this newsletter then my guess is that you have a desire to lose weight, have more energy and feel great in your body. Whether or not you wrote any official resolutions, I want you to know that there is a way to achieve these goals AND be happy in the process.
The way we have traditionally been taught to approach our goals for weight loss is the exact opposite. We have been sold on the idea that we need to embrace misery and sacrifice in order to get the results we crave.
What sounds better to you?
The traditional dieting approach: ?* Embark on a “battle of the bulge” whereby you believe losing weight will always be hard and you need to “be good”, count calories/points, and spend hours on the boring treadmill. ?* Eat boring “diet” foods while feeling self-righteous and jealous of your friends who are indulging in the foods you love. ?* Feel deprived and wonder how long you have to keep this up until you finally reach your goals.
The Befriend your Body Approach: ?* Create a life long friendship with your body. I will teach you how your body is your wise and collaborative partner in weight loss rather than a “thing” you have to control. ?* Enjoy delicious, healthy foods that boost your energy and mood. Never feel deprived or worried about being perfect. ?* Have fun while you slim down. This is key if you want your weight loss to be sustainable.
It’s your choice. You can always travel the familiar, miserable path of traditional dieting or you can take a risk and walk a different path. I know it can be very scary to try something new and that is why I am here to guide you on that path.
With love- Michelle Bailen
Contact me @ michelle@michellebailen.com
