What’s the first thing that came into your mind when you read the title of the post?
- Yes
- No
- Maybe
- I hope so
- I don’t know
- Probably not
Whether or not we succeed at anything in life is dependent on many factors. A few may be:
- Can you picture yourself where you want to be?
- Do you have the tools you need to reach your goals?
- Are you self aware of your needs?
- Can you be patient?
- Do you have a plan?
- Are you flexible?
- __________________ (you fill in the blank)
There are countless other determining factors, but these were the ones that came into my mind when I was thinking about the differences between the time I had success with weight loss and not.
Like many, many of you – I did have the desire to succeed. In my journey, one of the most important aspects of success for me was being self aware of what my strengths and weaknesses were.
Personally, my strengths lay in the area of organization, attention to detail, and desire. My weaknesses were my tendency to be ruled by my emotions, eating without thinking, and not always being honest with myself. So what I did was really try and marry the two areas. I paired up a strength with a weakness to help myself be successful.
I paired organization with emotional eating , attention to detail with mindless eating, and desire to succeed with my problem being honest with myself.
My tendency for organization helped come up with a plan when I felt the desire to eat because I was bored.
My natural attention to detail made it easier for me to actually notice how much I was eating, and what I was eating. Rather than fill up on junk, I started paying close attention to the quality of my calories rather than just the quantity.
And my desire to succeed helped me learn to be honest with what kinds of foods I was eating, and make choices that would move me towards my goal.
So what are your strengths and weaknesses? Can you really think about them, pair them up together, and use the marriage of the two to move your further in the right direction?
I’d encourage you to think about your plan for success. Even though we are primarily talking about weight loss, these ideas can be applied to many other areas of our lives. Really, regardless of where in life we are, we can use our natural strengths and weaknesses to be successful. Do you agree? Diane
i never thought of using my strengths and weakness together to work like that. thanks for another great post
A Girl Running´s last blog ..8 Weeks Pregnant
to be totally honest – I am at the ‘be part of the solution or get the hell out of my way’ stage.
And that is saying a lot because I really do not swear. I think I mean it literally – like remove temptation from my sight/path.
I had a debate with a personal trainer yesterday about ‘make do’ clothes and stuff and attitude. She was trying to get me to go buy at least one tide me over bra and/or pants. And I said – you know I am now SO CLOSE the my actual, final end that I am SO not doing that. It is not the $$$ it is the mind set. It is like it is an obstacle. Something else that I will have to ’shed’ down the road. I would rather just make do and get done.
I told her that this attitude is part of what kept me going. Part of what made me HOLD on the way down – and not have all the major ups and downs (of the scale) . I hate waste. Waste of time, money or spirit.
vickie´s last blog ..Restaurant food smells – if you can’t smell them – you might not want to read about them either. . .
@Running Girl – You are welcome. I hope that you feel better soon, and feel stronger!!
@vickie – I totally understand that desire to make do until you are ready to come out shining! You are a strong woman, and I agree – I hate waste too!
it is ONE HUNDRED PERCENT for me the visualization.
It sounds so silly when said or typed BUT if I can not see it occurring in my minds eye—what ever “it” is—its never going to happen.
MizFit´s last blog ..What IS average anyway?
One of my biggest strengths is ALSO one of my biggest weaknesses — in getting healthier and in life in general: my independent spirit. I’ve never been one to rely on others for much of anything. If anything I’ve been the care-giver more than the cared-for. On the upside it makes me work a little harder to figure things out on my own without relying so much on the opinions/ideas/fads of others … but the flipside of that is that when the going TRULY gets tough I’ve had a hard time relying on others to get me through. That, of course, never bodes well for me staying on target. This time around has been easier since I’ve built such a good network of support online … and I trust that if I go missing in action for any amount of time someone will hunt me down!
karen´s last blog ..Bacon Cheeseburger Muffins
@MizFit – It’s not silly at all, and I have a post lined up for this very subject.
@Karen – I love that you have built a support network. I think it’s just so great the way people on the web can be a source of real support and encouragement.
Starting my blog was a great example of this! I don’t actually know if I would call them strengths, but I know that I really respond well to positive reinforcement and being accountable to others. Writing on online journal, where others could accompany me on my journey and be supportive and offer advice, has really kept me on track so far! I am really glad that I married those traits to the less appealing lack of motivation and irresponsibility to myself that I have experienced in the past. Great post!
Excellent post! It’s one I’ll be re-reading and thinking a lot about. Thank you!
Beth´s last blog ..Success and Excitement
@266 – I think it is a strength that you know what works for you, because a lot of people don’t. You are doing great!
@Beth – Thank you so much for the nice comment!
Wow, this blog sure leaves me with lots to think about!
I think this is just so smart and something I’m going to start trying to do now, while I’m losing weight, and after I get to where I want to be.
Because, I WILL GET THERE! Sorry for the caps, but I just feel like I’m going to do it this time. Thank you for your encouragement.
I know I have said it before, but you have done what not very many people have done.
I’m with Miz on this one. If I can picture myself in a pair of my skinny jeans with a black shirt and a nice big belt and a slender waist, well then, it will happen. My biggest problem is patience. I want to lose it all now. My strength is resourcefulness (spelling? not so much)…I can find a way out of anything – there’s always a solution (sometimes using the help of others, but hey…that’s resourceful, too).
Amy H.´s last blog ..A long life may not be good enough, but a good life is long enough
@Michele – Thanks so much. I hope you had a great day!
@Monica – Don’t apologize for the CAPS! I’m so glad that you are moving forward in your journey. Thank you for coming by again.
@Amy H. – Patience is so hard with weight loss! I am not the most patient person – just ask my hubby, so I too wanted it to happen – yesterday.
This is a great idea! I never thought to come at it from this direction but you’ve given me a lot to think about. Thanks for the great suggestion.
Gigi´s last blog .."There Is Nothing You Can’t Do"
Hi Diane. I made it back & slowly getting back into it.. slowly!!!!
Great post!!! My first reaction: “At what”? See, to me, I know I am better at some things than others. The weight maintenance & working out is no prob. It is the real life stuff like finding a way to make money & be happy at the same time that stops me in my tracks.
I am going to reread your post!
By the way, congrats on the Frito Lay blog. You are awesome!!!! I just browsed your other posts & now it is time for sleep!
PS: Did you see my Monday post with the grandkid pic?
@Gigi – Thank you so much. I liked you last post!!
@Jody – I went by and saw the adorable picture. They are beautiful, and you look great. I’m no good at making money either. . .
I just woke up, I’m still sipping my coffee and so it’s too early to put one plus one together to = two. lol
My instant reaction to your title? Yeah, I am succeeding!
Dogged determination–I have a goal of good health where before I had no goal other than to satisfy my every desire.
I do better when I’m organized but I still manage to pull it off on days that are hectic and unorganized.
That’s all I can come up with without more coffee. lol (WIll think on this through the day though!)
Jo´s last blog ..Be Careful What You Ask For
So, I must be in a very positive place right now, because MY first thought when I saw the question “will you succeed?” was the last line of Oh, The Places You’ll Go – Will you succeed, yes you will indeed, 98 and 3/4 percent guaranteed.
Sue´s last blog ..reason #124 why it sucks to have a male weight loss partner
@Jo – Go have your coffee. You sound like me. If we are out in the morning before I had some coffee, then I usually turn to one of the kids and say, “I think it’s time for coffee!” You are succeeding!
@Sue – YAY! That makes me so happy to read what you wrote. Stay strong.
This is so, so smart Diane! The idea of marrying your strengths to your weaknesses is absolute brilliance. Now I have to go make my lists and play matchmaker!
Jill´s last blog ..Super-rambly weekend recap
I’ve learned recently that one of my biggest weaknesses is not holding myself accountable, I keep letting myself off the hook over and over. I tell myself I should go to the gym but let myself off because I’m too tired from work. I tell myself to not go the the vending machine but go anyway. This new revelation is eye opening and frustrating at the same time.
Robin´s last blog ..Curvy Rue
@Jill – Yes, let me know what matches you made! I’d love to hear.
@Robin – Me too. But for me it was just not being honest with myself and my feelings. As frustrating as it may be, at least you are realizing it, and now you can take steps to fix it.
I’m going to have to print this one out, so I can sit and figure out my strengths and weaknesses. Thank you for the lesson and homework!
I’ll let you know what I come up with.
Oh, I have to say that I really do feel I can make it to goal this time, I have no idea what that will be like, because I haven’t ever been at a healthy weight. The last time I weighed 140 I was in high school and it wasn’t healthy for my age/height. For now I can only imagine and dream of what it will be like….
Leah´s last blog ..Why Is This Time Different?
My weakness? Right now I don’t feel like I have one… I feel very strong and motivated, I’m in the groove. But I’ve lost my groove before, so I guess I would have to say my weakness is consistency. Or maybe it is being overly obsessive… I don’t know. My strengths are knowledge (of what healthy eating looks like, and of what it takes to succeed) and my love of exercise.
Janet´s last blog ..Day 107 – One Meal at a Time and August Recap
@Leah – Please do let me know what you come up with. You can dream it, and you are doing it. The best of both worlds!
@Janet – Great that you are strong, and using your strengths to succeed on your own personal journey. I think it’s such a plus for you that you love to exercise. That really puts you ahead of where I was!
Great post! I absolutely have my weaknesses, but I’m not giving up, and I will get there, apparently very slowly. I think I’ll succeed because I am being patient (though I don’t want to) and I am persevering, and not letting myself get caught in -any- mental traps, which always throw me.
julie´s last blog ..yoga and cigarettes (part 848)
Ok, first thought? YES! It kind of shocked me.
Mary :: A Merry Life´s last blog ..Day Of Sunshine, Walking and JackSh*t
@Julie – Good for you. I love that you said you are not letting yourself get caught in any mental traps. That’s so vital!
@Mary – YAY you!!! You are going to do it!
Great post! My frist thought was “I hope so”. I am right there with Robin…I must hold myself accountable or I’ll fail. I can do this, I know I need to be “healthy” but I also want to be happy with myself. So…”me, myself and I” are going to have a lot of talks!
You can bet your bottom dollar i’ll succeed!! lol! I am bound & determined and almost at my original goal!! I’ve stayed the course and it’s shown me the results I wanted to see!!
If you’re only going to go for things half-@ssed in life, you’ll never reach your goals in my opinion!!
I don’t use “I hope I can”, I use, “I’m going to”…
Love your posts.. you’re always so insightful and inspirational!!! Your blog should be a “must read” for anyone on a healthy lifestyle!
~Carla~´s last blog ..Day 2 – Wii EA Sports Active
@Tresa – I like that – “me, myself, and I” are going to have talks. You can do this my friend – I just know you can!
@Carla – I’ll bet my dollar on your success! I love your attitude. I also loved that tracking thing you have! Very cool. Thank you for the nice compliment – I’m blushing.
Honestly? This time I will succeed. There is no doubt in my mind to that.
In the past I’ve always wanted it, but never been willing to work for it. I can’t really describe it, but this time it’s different. I am willing to do just about anything to get it.
Being honest with myself is a daily struggle, but I’m working on it. And I’m holding myself accountable for the first time in over a decade.
Jac´s last blog ..Squeeze It In!
i’m an a freak about making a plan. if i’ve got one mapped out, i’ll break my neck trying to carry it through
@Jac – There is a huge difference between wanting and working. It really takes a marriage of the two to succeed. Excellent on the personal accountability!
@Brooke – I’m a planner too. It drives my family crazy!
I think its too easy to think about my weaknesses such as my poor self and body imagine, my spaciness, feeling self-conscious about my education and so on.
To add in some positives: my determination, my commitment to fitness and diet, and my desire to learn.
The question is, how I do make these sides of me work together?
carla´s last blog ..Brave, Stupid or Both?
Great post! I love this idea… For me the key to success was to devote as much energy to myself as I did to all other areas in my life. I also had to learn to let go of a lot of guilt…
Andrea@WellnessNotes´s last blog ..Celebrating Life & Being Thankful
@carla – It’s not always easy to take the two and make it into a stronger whole, but after reading your post today, you have all the strength to do it!
@Andrea – Great point about really devoting time & energy to meeting your goals. And the guilt. . . I understand that.
Pairing up sounds like a great idea. I had never thought of it that way.
Dawn´s last blog ..More camp shower and poop palace stories
I completely agree with this. I’m really going to think about this and identify my weaknesses and strengths. Hopefully this will help me too.
Alissa´s last blog ..W.I.D
@Dawn – I’m glad to give you something new to think about – especially with all you’ve been going through with the remodeling!
@alissa – I hope it will help you. Remember, you can do this!
Sadly, the first thing that popped in my mind was Probably not.
Lisa´s last blog ..Not going well…
My answer was “I hope so.”
I think the fill in the blank for me would be “Will you persevere?” To me, perseverance seems like it’s going to be the final say in terms of success. No matter how many setbacks, as long as you keep going, no matter how slow your progress, you’ll get there if you just persevere.
Great post, Diane.
Hadley´s last blog ..On weight loss surgery
@Lisa – I hope you will know that you can do this. It’s not easy for sure, but just take one day at a time.
@Hadley – Perseverance is so important, because for a lot of us, the journey is a long one. And then, it’s not really done, because maintenance is as important as the journey. Well said!
What a tremendous idea. I have done an inventory of my strengths/weaknesses, but never thought of pairing them together like this. My biggest struggle in doing this would be overcoming the stress or depression that puts me in a mood to eat in the first place. I’ll have to seriously contemplate how to use strengths to overcome these issues.
Leea
Diane, this is a wonderfully written post and such a great idea! I love the idea of pairing up your strengths and weaknesses. I will definitely be thinking about my own and how I can pair them together to make sure I succeed!
Jenn @ Watch My Butt Shrink!´s last blog ..Practicin’ my Preachin’ (and a Shameless Plug)
@Leea – That’s so great that you are going to think about using your natural strengths to help you have success. I understand the stress/emotional eating – it’s really tough to get past.
@Jenn – You can succeed! I loved your post today – very insightful.
Hi Diane,
Namaste! I’m happy to have read this blog! 
~Sharmila
I have thought about much of what you shared and found that visualization is what helps me keep moving forward! Knowing where I am going. I know eventually as I keep focusing my intent and re-aligning I’ll get there!
However,I love what you mentioned about bringing our strengths and weaknesses together in a marriage. I like that idea! For me I went from focusing on my weaknesses, to learning to focus on my strengths instead and this means I’m managing my weaknesses not dwelling here. But I like the idea of pairing them! This is a great compromise!
Jen´s last blog ..Possibilities, and Growing Naturally!!
What an amazing blog you have! It’s rich with such great information (and inspiration). I’ll be stopping by more often.;-)
Sonya´s last blog ..Day 30: Why, why, why?
@Jen – Focusing on your strengths is so smart, because that’s what gets you through those tough times, when your weaknesses threatens to overpower you. Thanks so much for your nice words!
@Sonya – Thank you very much for commenting. I really, really appreciate it!
Excellent post! One of my weaknesses is that I’m a teensy bit stubborn. I finally figured out a way to use that for good when I applied that stubbornness to my fitness efforts. (It was time I had a bit of my own medicine, anyway.)
Cammy@TippyToeDiet´s last blog ..How Corporate America Helped Me Lose Weight
My answer is “Yes, I can”, and this post is wonderful confirmation that I’m on my way! Thanks Diane!
Yum Yucky´s last blog ..Taste Test: Keebler Corn Bread Crackers
@Cammy – That’s funny about giving yourself a taste of your own medicine! Stubborness can be very useful sometimes!
@Yum Yucky – You can, and you are! By the way, I love your blog!
Oh boy, my answer is Oh gosh I hope I succeed. However, I can not picture it. My strength is that I’m (overly) aware of my weaknesses and I have a husband that will support me in that (aka going grocery shopping). My weaknesses, oh boy, I’m suggestible! That’s why not going grocery shopping is important for me!
MackAttack´s last blog ..Best laid plans
Success depends on only one factor: YOUR CHOICE! We all have a gift of choice. It’s up to us what we choose to be.