“Progress, not Perfection.”

After a very difficult week, I was on the treadmill at the gym moving at a moderate pace.  My mind was calmly repeating, “Right foot, left foot.”  I heard a voice saying, “You can do better than that.  Pick up the pace.”  I looked to my left and saw a personal trainer with a big smile. You know them by their black shirts and that hungry look for new clients.  “I would like to train you and get that body into beast mode.” Really? This got me thinking.  Am I not good enough?

What If?

What if I’ve made peace with my body and don’t plan on ever fitting back in my prom dress?  What if years of dieting, losing 10 pounds and regaining 15 pounds have hurt my body, mind, and self-esteem?  Am I not enough today?

What if it’s OK to go the gym and get caught up on Netflix or my favorite TV show?  Why do I have to run on the treadmill that goes nowhere?  Can’t I walk at a comfortable pace on the treadmill that goes nowhere and unplug from the toxic news cycle?  Is that not good enough after a long day?

What if I didn’t go to the gym today and just went to the park?  Do I need to run the 3-mile trail and then do a good stretch? What if I just want to sit on the grass, enjoy nature, and people-watch?  Would it not be enough for today?

What if I didn’t get 10,000 steps on my Fitbit today? Would 9, 582 be enough?  Or, do I have to jog in place or do jumping jacks in front of the TV to reach that magical number?  What If I was good enough today?

What if I just don’t have it in me to do an hour of spin class followed by a hot yoga or a Pilates workout?  What if all the striving for flat abs, a tight butt, and thighs that can stop traffic leaves me tired, empty, and sad?  Must I crush every workout?  Am I simply not enough?

I’m OK

What if it is OK for the warrior woman in me to just show up?  Give me my gold star.  I showed up on a difficult day and that counts.  Maybe I’ll be ready for beast mode next month.  Right foot, left foot.

Reflect

We look forward to hearing about your experience in the comment section of this blog. Or you can join the conversation on the Keep It Tight Sisters Facebook Group.

Keep It Tight Sisters.

Eat. Move. Breathe.