Casey White looks forward to what happens after the Scaling Back program
/ Courtesy: Casey White
As our journey into a healthier lifestyle comes to an end, the most common question I have been receiving is, “What are you going to do now that it’s over?” After pondering that for a while, the truth is, it’s not over. For me, it’s just beginning; this incredible experience I’ve had in the past four months has been a stepping stone into a whole new lifestyle, not just a quick fix. I’ve been given the tools to be able to change the way I do things, not only in my own personal struggles but with my family.
Simply putting myself on a diet like I have in the past indicates that there is an ending somewhere in the horizon. Diet is a four-letter word after all. Too many times I have said to myself that I have to go on a diet. But diet is a dirty word, meaning I am going to deny myself things, and it’s going to be a rough experience for me. Then I just end up being miserable, and I crash. This seems to be a continuous cycle in my life. With a lifestyle change, the key is moderation, moderation, moderation. Going out for ice cream with the family? Instead of getting the super five scoop sundae, get the kiddie size cone. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with treating ourselves once in a while. We all deserve it.
I think it’s also important to remember, that there are a lot of things we struggle with in our lives. This doesn’t mean we’re weak. Struggling through life is human nature. We all want results, like yesterday, and when we don’t get them, we give up. One of the most important things I’ve learned from this is that it’s okay to ask for help, whether it is from friends, family, co-workers, therapists, or even sending a short essay to Upnorthlive.com. While it was tough to learn I would be sharing my story with so many people, it was the kick in the rear I needed. I’m certainly not saying that anyone who is having a problem should share their story on the news! But confiding in just one person can make a world of difference.
I guess one of the main things I wanted to take from this experience is to see if I have inspired even one person to make a change in their own life. It doesn’t have to be weight loss, necessarily either. But if someone can see me and say, “She shared her own private life with tons of people and got the help she wanted, why couldn’t I share my problems with just one or two people for the help I need?” To me, that would be a huge accomplishment. To spread the message that getting help from others doesn’t make you weaker, it actually shows courage and strength.
Lastly, I want to thank everyone that has been involved with my story. There are so many, I simply cannot name them all individually: 7&4 for giving us the opportunity to share our lives, the staff at Munson that have worked with me through my ups and downs, my family and friends who have offered nothing but positive vibes, and even complete strangers who have done the same thing. Also to Dana and Misty for not making me do this on my own, I am now lucky enough to call you both new friends in my life.
I did lose weight. Did I lose my “ultimate goal?” No, of course not. Will I lose it eventually? Absolutely. I may be losing weight now, but what I have gained is many things too. The self-confidence I desired from the beginning, and a more positive outlook for my life in the future, whether it’s tomorrow or ten years from now. I cannot stress how important that is to me. Thank you to everyone, you are all wonderful!
Best wishes everyone,
Casey
