You've Come A Long Way, Baby!

When I was a kid in the 70’s a cigarette company that marketed itself to women used the slogan “You’ve come a long way, baby!” to appeal to a sense of empowerment.  Are we supposed to feel empowered as women because we have cancer sticks designed and marketed just for us?  No.  Empowerment comes from a strong sense of self worth and accomplishment.  At least for me it does.

Yesterday I went for a weigh-in and am happy report I am now down a total of 73 pounds.  *applause*

The pounds aren’t really what I want to talk about today but rather the achievement thus far.  Yesterday was also the day for me to be measured.  MRC measures several areas of your body and you get a combined inches lost report.  My combined inches lost to date are 95.75. 

WOW!

I’ll admit that the slow loss of pounds lately can be discouraging.  I’m running and doing yoga like crazy.  I do my very best to make all the right food choices.  I drink so much water I practically float.  Still the pounds are dropping at a snail’s pace.  The inches however are another matter all together.  They are testifying to a new and healthy lifestyle.  So as I look at those figures I remind myself that I am doing all the right things and the end results will show it.  I also have to remind myself that MUSCLE weighs more than FAT.  I’m stronger and have more muscle now.  Who would have every thought?  Ha-ha.

Making good food and lifestyle choices and achieving my running goals are important keys to my sense of empowerment.  Did you notice the keys are all things we do for ourselves?  No gimmicky products, fads or slogans required.

I also have another memory of my 70’s childhood.  My aunt loved Helen Reddy and had all her records.  One that I always listened to is now my anthem of sorts.  “I am woman. Hear me roar!”

What things empower you?