“You have to decide what your highest priorities are and have the courage – pleasantly, smilingly, nonapologetically – to say ‘no’ to other things. And the way to do that is by having a bigger ‘yes’ burning inside.” -Stephen Covey

There is no doubt, most of us lead a very busy lifestyle. In my years as a Weight Watchers leader, I’ve learned that ALL ages and stages of life bring different challenges in relation to managing our weight. Parents of young children, parents of older children, people with no children. People with careers, people with multiple jobs, people with no jobs. People who travel often, people who never get a vacation, and on and on and on.

The fact is, there’s not an “easy” time to lose weight for anyone, but there IS a right time. That time is when YOU are ready to make it a priority. I love this Stephen Covey quote (thank you for sending it to me, Leslie!) because in my opinion, it nails the point. “You have to decide what your highest priorities are and have the courage – pleasantly, smilingly, nonapologetically – to say ‘no’ to other things. And the way to do that is by having a bigger ‘yes’ burning inside.”

A “bigger yes”. What’s your “bigger yes”? WHY DO YOU WANT TO BE AT A HEALTHY WEIGHT? Why is it worth saying no to mindless snacking and large portions? How is being at a healthy weight going to improve your quality of life in the short term? What about in the long term? I challenge you to take 15 minutes and contemplate this question and start a list for yourself. My list is long, inspiring and personal to me. I suspect yours will be too.

Are you willing to have the courage (pleasantly, smilingly and no apologetically) to put YOURSELF at the top of your priority list? Are you ready to look at the big picture and grasp how important your health, your weight and feeling good about yourself is to not only you, but also those around you? When you are ready answer that question with a YES, then it’s your time to get this weight under control once and for all.

It’s empowering and exhilarating to take control of your actions and your life, one day at a time. You’re certainly not alone and the effort is worth it. I’m here to help you however I can and I know you can do it!!!

Stay warm on the cold, January Wednesday!

-Terra, Your Faithful Weight Watchers Leader:-)