On social media the other day a friend posted that he had an extra ticket to an event. I reached out to him and inquired about what he was talking about. He booked a trip for four people and needed one more to complete the group. He said that if I wanted to go I didn’t need to reimburse him, to just come. After getting more details, I decided I definitely wanted to go. This year I have free time and I can work from anywhere so I am not holding myself back from fun opportunities.

To prepare for this trip, I want to lose a little bit of weight so I feel 100% comfortable there. I was already starting to make changes, but now I had a goal and purpose. The friend who invited me also wanted to lose some weight and we decided that we would check in with each other during this process. We have been sharing photos of what we have been eating and I’ve gotten many ideas on what I would like to try myself from the photos he shares.

It has been amazing how motivated I am to change my habits. I have usually been super strict in the past when losing weight, but not this time. After writing my book, I have learned a lot and have started listening to my own body. It’s amazing what your body tells you when you actually listen. I still eat delicious foods, honor my craving and go out to eat with friends. I always thought it was stupid when people say, “It’s not a diet, it’s a lifestyle.” But it is really true now that I am on the other side of it.

It has been such a blessing to share this journey with someone every day. Having a supportive place to turn to while doing new things or trying to attempt new goals is very important. Choosing the right people to be in this group is even more important though. You will be vulnerable during some parts and needing a positive ear, shoulder and voice to turn to in these moments. Being picky with who you share your goals with is important because you don’t want any negativity shaking your progress, even if they don’t mean it to be negative.

How someone intends something can be very different from how someone takes it. It is pertinent to get clarity when you think you may have interpreted their words incorrectly. You know you need clarity when a usually supportive friend has said something not supportive to you and it hurt your feelings or made you feel something that person don’t usually make you feel. Often it is simply a misunderstanding, but it is so important to talk it out so there is no underlying tension later on.

I am very excited for our trip and even more excited because I have a wonderfully supportive friend. I am so grateful for his generosity too.

-Cassidy