Focus on the Long Term View

One of my goals this year is to get in the best shape of my life. To achieve this, I started my first cut since the pandemic. On March 21st, I weighed 150.3 lbs, with my goal weight being 138 lbs. Yesterday, I weighed 144.5 lbs, losing almost six pounds in two months. This rate of progress isn’t spectacular, but I’m pleased with it nonetheless.

Instead of attempting to lose weight quickly, I focused on creating habits that would be sustainable and resilient in the long run. This includes logging food in MyFitnessPal, eating high-protein/low-carb diets, avoiding processed foods, planning cheat meals, and setting boundaries.

Maintaining the cut has been a challenge. Around my birthday weekend (4/25) there were multiple parties with drinks and food, causing weight gain. The month of May was especially challenging; my company had an offsite in Austin, Texas with lots of barbecue and drinks. My sister and brother-in-law visited afterward, which meant more food tripping, and returning home involved traditional hospitality and food.

Rather than obstacles, I embraced these challenges as opportunities. I set my boundaries and communicated them to others. I allowed more flexibility and indulged in cheat meals because being on a cut doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself. While I may have stagnated or gained a few pounds during this month, when I returned to New York, I would lose that weight right after.

I often find myself with a list of commitments, like travel for work, hosting out-of-town guests, or attending parties. Saying ‘no’ and focusing on my goal can seem like the easiest option, but sacrificing my social life is not sustainable in the long run.

Despite occasional increases in my weight, the overall trend is towards my goal. I anticipated occasional spikes, but my focus remains on the long term.

Whether it be losing weight, cultivating a community, or financial investing, the long-term trend is what matters.