Day 4: The Joy of Weight Loss

It's a simple truth. Work hard and happiness will follow. Why? Because work done well leads you to a well-deserved sense of pride and accomplishment. People often make themselves unhappy by avoiding work or responsibilities. Just get what you need to do done. Don't wait. Work is never as hard in reality as we think it's going to be. Throw yourself into your work, whether it's simply organizing your bills and paperwork or repairing something around the house or starting that project at work. Find your sense of mission and purpose, and then dive into it. Need help starting? Give the task over to God or your Higher Power.

With God helping and empowering you, the work will be that much easier. And you will feel a true sense of joy when the work's done.

What does this have to do with a weight problem? Plenty. Feeling bad about avoiding necessary work sometimes leads to eating too much to feel better. Also, when you have a lot of extra time on your hands, it's easy to get bored and overeat. Begin by surrendering to God your fears, resistance, and worries about the work to be done.

TODAY

1. Prioritize what's important. Name what needs to get done, or what's bothering you and ask God (or Higher Power, Spirit, Allah, etc.) for help. Don't fret over how hard it might be; just do it and don't think about it.
2. Take some time for meditation and silent contemplation. Pray. Be grateful.
3. Go for another 10-minute walk, or take 10 minutes to stretch and move your body. A little light dancing or yoga might be a wonderful way to get in touch with your body.
4. Check out the Beliefnet discussion board, where you can chat with others who are also beginning this program.

See you tomorrow!


Norris Chumley is the author of "The Joy of Weight Loss: A Spiritual Guide to Easy Fitness" (Lantern Books 2001). Visit his website.

No single approach to weight loss works for everyone. We urge you to consult with your physician before making any significant changes in your eating habits or physical activities to ensure that what you propose for yourself is nutritionally sound, safe, and healthy.