I was listening to a podcast the other day: “The School of Greatness” with Lewis Howes. While his guests are not always my cup of tea, I keep an open mind and listen to what they have to say. I always learn something.
A consistent element at the conclusion of Lewis’ show is to ask ask the guest to give some advice to the listener. This week’s guest didn’t hesitate and said firmly, “Don’t give up.”
He went on to tell a story dripping with baseball references and imagery. The story concluded with the advice that you should just keep trying until you succeed. Two reasons: 1) it can happen when you don’t expect it; and 2) no one celebrates how long it took you to get there. They just celebrate that you got there.
This got me thinking about my ongoing journey with weight loss. Like baseball, I keep stepping up to the plate again and again and again. And like many baseball players, I keep swinging and missing. If I were to do the math, my batting average would be mediocre at best. Amusingly I’ve spent the better part of a week debating, in weight-loss terms, if I should measure batting average (the number of times I’ve hit the proverbial ball when at bat) or if the true measure of success is RBI (the number of runs scored based on the batter’s action). A slightly ridiculous personal discussion to have with oneself during the gluttony of the holidays. What I couldn’t ever figure out was what is the “run” equivalent of weight loss? How do I know if there’s been a measurable score? If you have an opinion on this I’d be very interested to hear. Over-think things much?
Which brings me back to my journey. From the beginning of 3D LILA’s journey, it was never about the number on the scale. (Although in reading the above, I do keep talking about “weight loss,” so maybe I’m only fooling myself.) I’ve tried to focus on physical changes by measuring myself through alternate, geeky techniques. Unfortunately my little “3D model” solution is no longer available in my area, and the backup plan of using the Naked Labs mirror has been pushed out to late 2017 due to production issues. Harrumph.
Let me throw the question out to you, awesome readers: How should I measure success in 2017? You’re my accountability buddies, what would you like to see?
Some ideas that spring to mind:
- Old school tape measure around my waist. Not totally accurate, but my tummy is my “problem” area.
- Miles covered – I’m a runner who isn’t running much. This journey has always been about being the “Late in Life Athlete.”
- Continue a version of the 3D LILA Advent Fitness Challenge? I’d be game for signing up for 10-a-day of the set of 5 exercises. Maybe we increment it up by 5 each month.
- 30-Day projects – focus on one measurable goal at a time. For example, no sugar for 30 days and report on them.
Two asks of you:
- Do you have other ideas?
- Will you join me in my method or even one of your choice?
Put your responses in the comments. I’d love to hear.
Until next time…
L.I.L.A. - the Late in Life Athlete 
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