Embracing Transformation Over the Number on the Scale

Do you become entangled in the never-ending cycle of weight loss and gain? The scale often becomes a constant companion, a nagging voice that whispers "not good enough" or "you'll just fail AGAIN!" But what if I told you that the number on the scale is not the ultimate goal? What if I shared with you a secret that could set you free from the weight loss roller coaster and unlock a more profound transformation?

The Number Isn't the Goal

The number isn't the goal, transformation is the goal. These words are a powerful reminder that our worth, value, and identity are not defined by a single number on a scale. It's time to shift our primary focus from the external to the internal, from only the physical to the emotional, and from the temporary to the lasting.

Why We Get Stuck on the Scale

We often become fixated on the scale because it provides a tangible, measurable outcome. We see progress, we see setbacks, and we see a clear path to our desired weight. But this focus on the number can lead to an unhealthy obsession. We start to tie our self-worth to the scale, feeling like we're not good enough when the number doesn't cooperate. We become slaves to the scale, constantly weighing ourselves, tracking our progress, and beating ourselves up over minor fluctuations.

When losing the majority of the weight 2 years ago, I decided to purchase a digital scale as we still had the $5 analog scale from almost 20 years ago. My old one wasn't precise. Even knowing this... I had to mentally prepare myself that the number on the new scale could be higher.

When the scale arrived on our front step, I nervously opened it and added the included batteries. I took a deep breath and stepped on the new scale. Sure enough! I was 10 pounds heavier on the new scale.
My heart sank as I entered the new number on my tracking app, MyNetDiary. All the negative thoughts started to creep into my core.

Instead of letting those thoughts cloud my judgment... I decided to go for a walk. The fresh air and bright sunny day helped me to think more clearly about my situation. I whispered to myself, "The number isn't the goal, transformation is the goal." I started to think about how my life has changed so much these past months. Transformation is an internal battle. I am not the same person I was.

In the past, I would've sat on the couch chowing down a Giant Symphony bar (filled with delicious almond and toffee bits) or a bag of chips with a soda to numb those negative thoughts and emotions. I still eat some of those things, but "Praise the Lord!" my emotional cravings don't control me now as they once did.

The Problem with Weight Loss as the Goal

When we make weight loss our primary objective, we set ourselves up for disappointment and frustration. The scale is an unreliable indicator of our internal health, happiness, and well-being. It doesn't account for muscle gain, water retention, or the countless other factors that can influence our weight. Moreover, the pursuit of weight loss can lead to an unhealthy relationship with food, exercise, and our bodies.

I do believe that if we are only fixated on the number going down on the scale without gaining lasting skills and enjoying active hobbies and healthier foods, we are setting ourselves up for future weight gain. Even if you reach your goal, the joy and excitement of stepping on the scale fade away during maintenance mode. Then sadly, weight regain usually occurs.

Embracing Transformation

So, what does transformation look like? It's about cultivating a deeper connection with your passions and hobbies. Reflect on what you truly enjoy in life and grow. It's about nourishing your mind, body, and spirit with healthy habits, self-care, and mindfulness.

How to transform? Develop a healthy body image. Recognize and embrace the bad and the good.

An example of the bad: Because of my excess weight, past sedentary life, and genetics... I have lots of ugly, dark veins in my legs. I've learned to forgive myself for what I did to the only body I have in this life and treat my body with care moving forward.

An example of the good: How do we have a focus on transformation over just the numbers on the scale? We need to have other transformative passions in our lives rather than only weight loss. Finding active/creative hobbies is important. I have learned that I love watercolor painting, piano, pickleball, skiing, slow running, biking, and walking.

Discovering activities that you truly love boosts your inner confidence and identity.

Using the Scale as a Tool, Not a Goal

As a personal coach, I'm not suggesting we abandon the scale entirely. Instead, let's use it as a helpful tool to track our progress, not our worth. Let's view the scale as a snapshot of our physical health, not a reflection of our identity.

When we focus on transformation, we can:
* Develop a more balanced relationship with food and exercise
* Prioritize our mental and emotional well-being
* Make sustainable lifestyle changes that promote overall health and happiness

I still suggest stepping on that scale every morning after going to the bathroom. You will be able to see the trends of your body. For instance, I have never been very regular with my periods. But knowing that my body starts to bloat 3-7 pounds before my period. The scale helps me read my body so much better!

Another way to monitor your progress is measuring the circumference of your waist, legs, and arms. The waist is the most important. But make sure your measurements are done at the same spot every time. One way I do this is find a freckle or something that is an "anchor point".

Another way to monitor your body is how your clothes are fitting. Even my shoe size went down when I lost the weight!

You Are More Than a Number

Remember, you are not defined by a single number on a scale. You are a unique, vibrant, and worthy individual with so much to offer the world. Your worth, value, and identity are not tied to your weight or appearance. As a Christian, I believe that you are a work of art, a masterpiece in progress, and a transformation waiting to happen.

Take the First Step

Break free from the scale's grip and embark on a journey of transformation. Place the note, "The number isn't the goal, transformation is the goal." on or by your scale. Focus on developing healthy habits, and nurturing your mind, body, and spirit. You are capable of achieving so much more than a number on a scale. You are capable of transforming your life, inside and out.

See you next time!