Excuses Are So 2009!

As Nick and I work towards making major improvements in our lives, there have been so many obstacles standing in the way of change. I thought long and hard about deciding to opt out of getting a master's degree and instead pursue applications to PhD programs right now. Something inside said that waiting another two years was not the right move for me and that it was time to take a risk and jump in with both feet. Well yesterday I found out I got my first interview and I am both excited and humbled. I have often wondered why it's taken so long for me to get to this point.
One of the graduate students in my lab answered the phone and by the time I got off she had pretty much figured out what the call was in reference to. As soon as I hung up she asked me how I felt. As usual you might be wondering if I'm off on some tangent or if this is really relevant to a health and wellness blog. It is, I promise you. I had to admit I felt great. Strangely enough the feeling was not only due to the fact that someone somewhere might have recognized my potential to succeed in a doctoral level program but because I realized my perspective has finally shifted.
There were so many struggles just getting to this point, not only in terms of my career but in my personal life as well. I recognize that I am not unique. All men struggle. Such is life. My husband keeps telling me "New Year, New You Trace". Well this morning I finally understood what that meant. I knew what that weird feeling in my gut was all about yesterday. I thought it was anxiety but I really didn't feel nervous. After completing week 3 of ChaLean Extreme this morning, I realized that feeling was actually the hum of anticipation. It seems so sudden but I realize it is the culmination of 27 years of life.
Life can be challenging but how we do at this game call life is a matter of perspective. I can look back over my life and feel sorry about how much I did wrong or I can look forward to the multitude of opportunities I have to do things right. This morning I collapsed onto my mat, exhausted and spitting out sweat. Two years ago when hubby was trying to whip me into shape I would have been resentful and downright pissy. See I wasn't trying to get fit for the right reasons. I wanted other people to be happy, other people to be impressed. I wanted my husband to stop nagging me about my self neglect. I wanted other people to stop making me feel small because I was the fat friend. But this morning, flat on my back and too tired to bother wiping the sweat I realize one important truth. It's all about me right now.
I know that probably sounds super self centered and it is. If I don't put myself first I won't have anything to share with the important people in my life. How can I support my husband in his endeavors or love and care for my mom if I'm dead? With my family history of diabetes and stroke there is no excuse not to finish what I've started. I have to do this thing, to see it through. It's not just about fitting into dream jeans or looking hot in a swimsuit. It's about being there for the ones you love and reaching out to help those you may not even know. Now that my perspective has changed life is looking a whole lot better. Excuses are so 2009, I'm ready to win in 2010! Are you ready?