Acceptance - The Fifth Stage in Weight Loss!
Acceptance is the state of mind where we are able to take hold of an idea or situation and give admittance or approval. That is not to say that we agree with the situation, just that we realize and accept that it has happened. In this stage we endure, without protest or reaction. This is the fifth stage of grief and the final article in a 5-part series where we are examining the similarities between the 5 stages of grief and the feelings we experience on our journey to successful weight loss.In death, our minds accept the loss of a loved one. It is not that we are okay with the loss, but we accept it happened, realize we were not able to change it and that we must move forward. We must come to a similar point in our weight loss journeys.
READ MORE... Acceptance in weight loss means we acknowledge where we are and where we have been. We may not be satisfied with our current situation, but we must let go of the past and stop looking back or blaming ourselves for previous failures.It is a time of self-acceptance of our body shape and size, where we can look in the mirror and see us as we are. We understand that our size does not define who we are; our hearts, our integrity and our compassion do. When I came to this stage, it was the first time I could stand in front of a full-length mirror and truly look at myself. I no longer turned away in disgust but looked at myself gently and caringly, realizing there was a pretty nice person underneath. I held my tummy in my hands and looked at my stretch marks. I accepted that some of them had come from the miraculous birth of my daughter and I was thankful for having been blessed with her. Others were there because I gorged myself on food; I was an emotional eater and had to take responsibility for my actions. At this point I found tears streaming down my face as I cradled my tummy with compassion. It was the first time that I learned to give myself the same consideration that I had so often reserved for others. It was the point that I forgave myself and I began to heal.Acceptance allows you to fix your eyes forward, make new goals, set priorities and launch your dreams. It is where you believe in yourself, day by day, and a point where steadfast determination is born. Turning back is no longer a possibility; you can only march forward to claim all that life has to give you. The time it takes to get there is no longer a driving force; your commitment is!Self-acceptance and prioritizing your life to make time for you is the greatest gift you can give yourself and your loved ones. Surround yourself with positive people, positive affirmations, initiate your “can do” attitude and be the best you can be. YOU are sincerely worth the effort!Very best wishes for your health and your success …You have to accept whatever comes and the only important thing is that you meet it with the best you have to give. – Eleanor RooseveltWe have to do the best we can. This is our sacred human responsibility. – Albert EinsteinRelated Articles -Denial - The First Stage in Weight LossAnger - The Second Stage in Weight LossBargaining - The Third Stage In Weight Loss!Depression - The Fourth Stage in Weight Loss!
6 Comments:
My biggest hurdle in losing weight I think is self acceptance. I feel like my weight does define who I am but I know that is not true deep down. I have joined the weight loss challenge in the hopes of getting a good start.
This has been a fabulous series. Very enlightening and helpful. My mom isn't a part of this group, but I have been forwarding her this series (hope you don't mind) and she raved about it too.
Putting these difficult emotions into perspective like that is very enlightening and helpful. Thank you!
As I was walking this morning, I was able to say to myself sincerely, and really mean it, for the first time in quite awhile, that I love myself regardless of my weight...I accept the weight my body needs to be at right now, and love myself.
You are such an amazing writer. I always get something to help me. I am lucky that I get many positive comments from others but I also need to accept my smaller self and keep it that way.
I joined this group long ago but have just recently started reading everything. I am amazed with your story and have really gotten alot out of your writings. I agree with your stages of weight loss. You have put alot of insite into your journey. thank you for sharing and helping others.
lilmizzdimplez
JSpring,
Thanks so much for your insight. This is very helpful. I was just beginning to feel down after a summer of making drastic changes to my healthy eating lifestyle.. your thoughts and words give me the confidence to go forward.
J.
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