Using the other racers as inspiration

Are we there yet?

At the start of this race, almost all of us stated our hope was to lose at least 20 pounds in the 10 weeks.

At this time, almost 90 percent of the racers have achieved and surpassed that goal. Although the initial goal has been achieved, it shows how easily our psyche can work against us. Rather than being able to revel in the victory, there’s frustration that it’s not good enough. I know, in part, for me, some of this comes from seeing just how much work and commitment this takes to get to where I want to be. Like a child on a road trip, it’s easy for me to get impatient and each time I get on the scale. The question is always, “Are we there yet?”

I want to get to the destination as quickly as possible, with the least amount of bumps along the way. Unfortunately, the reality is there are detours that come up unexpectedly. Maybe it’s because I commute a long distance every day but the analogy of a long car ride works for me. Every day it’s a question whether I’m going to have a slow, tedious ride or can cruise to my destination effortlessly. Sometimes I’m going to be unfortunate enough to be behind that idiot who just keeps ticking me off and makes me want to turn around and just go home. No matter what I encounter, if I just keep moving, I’m eventually going to get to work. Although some days not as quick as I wanted to. 

I personally am in awe of the accomplishments of my fellow racers. Without knowing it, several people are responsible for giving me the courage to try things I didn’t think I could do or have helped to push me to levels I didn‘t know I could achieve. The excuses didn’t fly anymore when racers, most of whom are dealing with greater weight loss issues than I am, were achieving what I thought I wasn’t capable of.  “I can’t” just hasn’t been a part of anyone’s vocabulary. I think we’re pretty awesome and I’ll use this blog to say thanks to everyone who’s shown me and everyone following this race just how much we’re all capable of.