January 31, 2010

Behavior Analysis Pays Off

I practiced my new behavior pattern in the gym this week. It was the third time I was running my mile without stopping. It hurt SO bad. I began to think 'I'll just stop and walk really fast. It's basically the same. I can run tomorrow.' But then I realized that is what the old behavior pattern was--stop when the going gets tough. So I went against my tendency and pushed through the pain. By the end of the week I had run 3 miles on different occasions, of course. I am going to add 1/10 mile each week and that should put me at my goal of 2 miles in 12 weeks (I'm on week 2). I am pumped about this!

I also practiced the new behavior pattern in the food department. I took my son to a friend's birthday party where I knew there would be pizza. I always follow the rule of "eat before you go so you won't be hungry" but since I don't really mind eating when I'm not hungry, this technique usually doesn't work for me. Well, the inevitable moment came--they brought out 4 ooey gooey pizzas. I began to rationalize, 'it would be rude not to eat the pizza since the hostess had to pay for them. Plus I have done so good all week, surely one piece of pizza won't hurt.' But THEN! Then I remembered that was the old behavior pattern and I had to reverse it. So I didn't eat any pizza! And guess what? I lived.

I will weigh in at my meeting in a couple of hours and will report back with that info. I think I had a good week on the scale, but more importantly my mind is being transformed. Each time I practice this new pattern of pressing on, the easier it will be to leave the old pattern behind. One day, the "new way" will be my normal way. I can DO this. Praise the Lord--HE can surely do this!

LOVE this from Titus 2:
11For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. 12It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.

3 comments:

Stacey said...

Regardless of what the scale says you are making huge changes! Thanks for allowing us in for the journey.

Here is a scripture I have tried to remember when the old behavior creeps in

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9

Lean & Green Mama said...

Thanks for the verse AND the inspiration! I need that right now, as my scale has frustrated me the last couple weeks! BUT ya know, there are some "old ways" of doing things that are still creeping in from time to time...I'll keep this post in mind when I get the urge to quit in my exercise or give in to one of my rationalizations with eating. THANKS!

Shelby said...

This is an INCREDIBLY awesome post and how perfect that I found it today when I really needed it. I really enjoy your blog.