-By Shannon Collins
A week ago, I found myself in the grocery store parking lot alone with a bag of peanut M&M’s eating one at a time until I had probably finished half the bag. Why??? Well… I had a very emotionally stressful few weeks. For me, stress triggers emotional eating. In those moments I truly believe that eating (usually chocolate or sugar) will relieve the stress. Honestly, it does for me… BUT only for that brief moment in time! Then not only do I have the original stressor, but now I have the stress from knowing that I made a choice that wasn’t healthy for me.
Why am I sharing this “not-so-proud” moment with you? First of all, I want you to know that I am human. Most of the time I am able to stay on track, and I am proud of my choices. However, sometimes I fall into old patterns of behavior. I suspect that many people out there struggle with similar issues. Secondly, I want to encourage you to remember that it is OK to have weakness! Success doesn’t come from perfection! It comes from taking one step at a time and learning from our failures. It is all about attitude. And lastly, I want to share with you some strategies that I find work for me when I am faced with stress and emotional turmoil.
When I find myself struggling with life, I usually do a quick mental check. I ask myself questions like “what am I thinking about?,” “what am I telling myself?”, and “what should I be focusing on?”… Typically, if I am struggling, the answers to these questions are negative and self-defeating. I surround myself with people who I KNOW will help me to reframe my thoughts. These are the people that remind me of my strengths and blessings. I also do what I can to find quiet moments in my chaotic life to reflect on these things. Stressful times allow a great opportunity to get back to the basics- planning, accountability and support!
After having a difficult couple of weeks, I did exactly those things! I got quiet, utilized my support network, reframed my thoughts, and got back to the basics! I am happy to report that I have entered into this week with a healthier attitude and confidence! Life can be challenging, so we just need to keep practicing our tools for success!!! We are here to support each other! Keep it up Fit Gals (and Guys)!!!