Sissy: The Plan

Like any well-seasoned traveler, I have learned that going forth on a journey without at least making plans ahead of time can lead to disaster, not to mention a stressful trip. It dawned on me the other day that my approach to establishing healthy eating habits needs to be handled the same way. And by establishing a plan, I don't mean running to the store and buying the latest fad diet book as my road map. Been there, done that, doesn't work. That approach is like trying to use one of those cheesy theme park maps to work your way around Orlando - it may work for your tour around the parks, but once you are back in reality you'll wish you had an actual map that is "drawn to scale".

I've been researching different eating plans and lifestyle changes. If my sister and I are going to tackle this issue once-and-for-all, we need something that can be adopted for life. One of the plans we are considering is Phil Kaplan's "Best You've Ever Been". It is a no B.S. approach to weight loss. I like that he focuses on reving up your metabolism and proper nutrition rather than cutting calories and restricting food intake.

My husband told me about this guy several years ago, and, of course, like any good wife I shrugged him off. "What does my 6' 2" husband know about weight issues?!" I thought to myself. Plenty, actually. But I didn't really want to admit to my husband that he could actually be right. Nevertheless, he bought Phil's book and encouraged me to read it.

Well, my husband deserves a Medal of Honor for having to put up with me. I decided to swallow my pride along with the last chocolate truffle he got me for our anniversary and decided to give Phil's plan a whirl. I am about half-way into the book and so far, I really like what I am reading. He dispells all the diet myths, the "wonder" pills, the "As Seen on TV" exercise equipment, and gets down to the science behind supportive nutrition. He also addresses the mindset of a healthy person. And that is the key that very few, if any, another diets talk about - changing the way you think about food and exercise. This guy might be on to something.

There is an affirmation that Phil writes in his book that I am to read aloud. At first, I thought it was kind of stupid. But after I read it a few times, it actually makes sense. If I am going to change my mind set, I have to start somewhere. Well, here is goes:

Today, I give myself permission to go through a complete and total metamorphasis.

As of this moment, the winner inside of me breaks through.

The person who was here just a moment ago has now been replaced by a stronger willed,

happier person, a person who revels in the knowledge that the power to change lying dormant

has been released.

The future holds no bounds.

Today, I promise to begin a series of actions, each directed at an ongoing betterment, betterment

that will manifest in positive changes in my life and the power to positively impact the lives

of others. I promise today to begin an empowered and wondrous journey towards being

The Best I've Ever Been!