It's Human Nature...

Study after study has shown that humans do not thrive without relationships. It is in our very nature to seek some sort of relationship with something in life. Even those who don't interact with other humans form relationships with animals, or even inanimate objects (that's a different subject).

My point is, whether or not we are conscious of it, we feel some sense of relief or comfort when we are in the company of those with whom we relate, whether it is a relationship of choice (friend or signficant other) or a familial relationship. It is in our very nature as humans to relate to others on some level.

Having healthy relationships and receiving support, affection and validation is usually a very healthy thing. However, in the case of weight loss, it can be a tricky.

I love having the support of others along this journey. In fact; let me take a sentence to pause and say a huge THANK YOU to each person who has taken the time to read my blog, comment on Facebook or tell me in person that they can relate to and support me on my journey. The support of others keeps me accountable and energizes me simultaneously. However, what I and others on this journey must avoid is the natural human tendency to compare ourselves and our weight loss journeys to those of others.

I have been weighing in at work each week along with several of my co-workers. Even though we weigh in privately with the nurse, it's still a natural reaction to discuss how things are going. The sense of competition is kinda fun and can even be motivating. However, the line between competition and comparison is a thin one.

I guess my point is that one must remember to value his or her individual journey in life. It goes back to that whole "the grass is greener on the other side" cliche'. It's important not to lose focus on my own journey because I'm so busy comparing myself to someone else whether they are more, less or equally successful.

When it comes to weight loss, the goal should not be to look like someone else or to beat someone else. In addition, we should not become complacent because someone else has, and we most certainly must refrain from using someone else's lack of progress to excuse or validate our own.

Even though I'm bound and determined to surpass my co-workers and take home "the big pot" at work, I'm more determined to beat the scale. Whether or not my co-workers gain or lose another pound, it's me against the machine (the scale), me against my own body, and me against my natural inclination to quit when the going gets a little tough.

It's me against my human nature. This is one time when I truly don't care what anyone else thinks. Call me self absorbed!

By the way... I've lost 10 pounds ;)

~Tash