| Many
pear-shaped women and men have one important thing in common,
and that is a sedentary lifestyle. If you have a natural propensity
to gain weight on the bottom half, your desk job is not your friend.
Before you quit your job, however, consider the little things
you can do to help offset the effects of sitting all day long.
First,
somewhere near your desk, place a small framed photograph of
yourself when you were at, or near, your perfect weight. The
subtle reminder will help you remember that you can look that
way again, if you remain conscious of that goal and work toward
it.
Second, take the
time to prepare healthy, whole food snacks either the night
before, or in the morning. Make sure that you have no reason
to stop by the kitchen where your employers have set out the
donuts and candies. Each time you think you may want to eat
one of those chocolate donuts, imagine the donut stuck to your
thigh instead. That is where it is likely to end up, if you
don't learn to exercise your willpower.
Third, make time
for a brisk walk, and don't allow yourself to make excuses.
If the weather is lousy, walk up and down the stairs. Bring
an iPod, change into your walking shoes, and make it fun. Thin,
healthy people who live long happy lives say that they break
a sweat every day. If you have to, bring a t-shirt and sweat
pants and change clothes so you don't sweat into your nice work
clothes.
Make a friend at
work who wants to lose weight too, and make a date for a lunchtime
walk several times a week. The buddy system often works like
a charm. The two of you can support each other in your goals
for leaner, healthier bodies and have fun too. If you focus
on having a good connection with your new friend, the miles
you walk at lunchtime will slip away, just like those extra
pounds. |
