Making Change

Change.

It is obviously something we all experience and is a constant in our lives. There are a number of changes that we have no power over and just have to accept and live with.

But changing ourselves--making a conscious effort and trying to make something different in our lives that will hopefully be better--well, that can be difficult. Bad habits, excuses, and the daily grind can wear down all of our resolve to make a positive adjustment to how we live.

For example. My writing, which is why I started this blog, has been going no where. And to top that off, I have been really neglecting my physical health. I know I have put on some additional weight in the last few months, which is in addition tot he weight I have gained in the years since I got out of active duty in the Marine Corps. So I am now at nearly 310 pounds...meaning that since 2000, I have gained 130 pounds!

And aside from the outline I started of the short story I had planned, I have not added anything to that in at least a week.

Now, yesterday was my birthday and I turned 35 years old. I want the next year to be better (where I am also hopefully employed), so I going to make some changes.

The first part of these changes is to address my health, so I am starting today and rededicating myself to the P90X program. I had some success with the program in the past, but I had not put in the full effort or commitment that is required. That being said, I had still lost 20 pounds before and kept it off for a year. So, I will work harder this time and really give myself over to the program.

As for the writing, I want to set aside a bare hour--a single hour-- each day where I have to sit down and actively create new material or transcribe some of the hand written draft I have of my novel.

I know this will not be easy. And honestly some of it will not be fun. But I have to do this. My health has a direct impact on my family and I want to be there for my two girls, and to spend long years with my wife. I cannot do that if I do not get control of my weight. And doing that alongside working on my writing will be a big step towards making me a happier person all around.

Wish me luck!

Cheers!