If you’ve signed up for my fortnightly email newsletter, you’ll already know that while I am continuing to go for a walk most mornings, I’ve been feeling a bit discouraged.
Since starting in about August last year, I’ve built up from a quick turn around the block, to around 4km or 5000 steps.
Despite all this, the numbers on the scales haven’t really changed. I’m grateful they haven’t continued the upward trend (from before I got back into walking), but still … I’ve been feeling quite discouraged.
On Friday morning, I just wasn’t feeling it and told myself that it was too hot, it was too wet, I was too tired, I had too much work to do … I “excused” myself from my usual exercise routine. (Naughty Janet!).
But then something happened that made me feel much better, with the result that first thing Monday morning I set off for my walk with new enthusiasm.
So what made the difference?
It was the power of an encouraging word.
Over the weekend the hubster was going through some photos from our trip to Bali a year ago. After a while he called me to join him, saying, “I want to show you something”.
He showed me some pics where I am wearing a bikini, before turning to me and saying: “I know you’ve been saying you haven’t lost any weight from walking, but your body doesn’t look like that anymore.”
Of course being the SNAG (sensitive new age guy) that he is, he then went on to clarify that he was perfectly happy with me regardless, but he’d noticed a difference, before concluding, “you may not have lost weight, but you’re looking much more toned”.
Well! What a boost to my flagging enthusiasm, and just when I needed it most (bless his little cotton socks).
It’s also rather timely, because this Thursday 1 March is World Compliments Day.
I think it goes to show that the best compliments aren’t fake or flattery – they are meaningful, because somebody has not only taken the time to really see, know, and understand us, but also recognised the effort we have been making.
Is there somebody you can cheer with the power of an encouraging word this week?
Joining up with some of my fave bloggers for:
It really is all about encouragement and support isn’t it Janet. Just a kind word said with meaning can mean so much to someone. We might not think it is much at the time but it can certainly make a world of difference. Good for you with the walking, keep it up and you will get results.
Thanks Sue, I’m taking a break for the rest of this week after having a BCC removed on Wednesday.
It’s so much about encouragement. I’ve been slack for most of February – rain, work travel, general lethargy. I’ve blamed it on so many things, but at the root is the feeling that I’m getting nowhere. Yet, after not walking for a few weeks, my temper is seriously suffering & I don’t feel as good in myself. The thing is, we don’t see ourselves clearly & thankfully your hubster sees you better than you see yourself lol.
You’ve had a busy month so perfectly understandable. But like you’ve found, walking is good for mind and spirit, not just body!
There is so much power in a simple compliment or a kind word isn’t there? And it’s so easy to do! We should all do it more often and hopefully receive it back sometimes. It can put a spring back in your step and make your day – just as you found out. Good on your hubster – what a guy! 🙂 #TeamLovinLife
Well said, Min.
Janet, your husband is a keeper!
SSG xxx
Thanks Min and SSG, don’t you worry I’m hanging on to him x
How lovely that he noticed – and took the time to tell you in a way that was encouraging – that’s the type of man who’s a keeper! I’ve had a bit of an off few weeks health wise and know what it’s like to want to stay inside and put your feet up, but every time I get out for a walk and watch my FitBit numbers increase, I’m so pleased with myself and scales might not notice, but my brain does.
I’ve been thinking about getting a Fit Bit but for the moment rely on a pedometer app on my phone.
What a great husband and perfect timing too by the sounds of it. It is so easy to lose motivation and there is always something else to do but the benefits are there and not just in the toning up, I find walking helps me mentally and emotionally as well.
He’s pretty special 😉 … yes I think it’s good for mind and spirit, not just the body, even if I do have to force myself sometimes.
An encouraging word is always welcome and something we all need to do more of Janet. Thanks for the inspiration on World Compliment Day 🙂 x #TeamLovinLife
You are very welcome lovely Lyndall! I really enjoyed the company of you and the gals on Sunday, and appreciate that you drove so far to join us xxx
So agree Janet. I’ve also been doing more exercise but the scales haven’t budged. Not sure if your hubby had a word with my hubby or not (!!) but Dave said to me the other day, “Gee you’re looking really toned and slimmer.” Let me tell you, the next week I exercised every single day … I was so chuffed with myself.
Hahaha they sound so alike Jo – we got good ‘uns for sure.
That is so lovely that he noticed a positive difference, the scales don’t always tell the true story.
He is a keeper. xx
Sometimes I hate those scales!!! And yup I think I’ll keep him 😉
I think sometimes it’s our shape that changes, while weight stays the same. Or we are losing fat but replacing it with muscle, so the scales don’t tell us that.
That’s what I’m telling myself anyways 😉
It is lovely that your hubby has noticed the changes in your body. I think a little encouragement and a few compliments certainly go a long way. Everyone needs a lift now and again. There are far too many critics and it would be nice if there were more encouraging people in the world.
And didn’t just notice them, but actually commented! 🙂
Good job hubster!!! He’s a keeper.
PS you do look great Janet. Forget the scales … go with the hubster.
Thanks Leanne!