I didn't want to say it out loud. Even though this is something I took on to challenge myself, I didn't want to voice it to people because what if I didn't complete it? I began my walking two miles a day for 30 days challenge, and I was a little scared. But why? The fear of failure and being held accountable for a goal I set? I don't even know why this particular goal challenged me so much when I had just completed 30 days of having no red meat in my diet AND I said that out loud to people.
As I think about this, what I'm realizing is this challenge pushed me in more ways than I anticipated. It required daily work on my part, which required me to push through day after day, no matter how I felt and that can be hard. Over the years, I have been really good and diligent with working out five days a week. Day six and seven are my free (rest) days. Listen, after being wife, mom, grandma and essentially everything for everyone else, I am tired by the end of the week. All I want to do is sit around and do nothing. Literally nothing. Committing to 30 days meant moving my body seven days a week, no matter what.
Well, what about the weather? I had walking videos on deck so I could still get in my two miles regardless. Get fit With Rick is my go-to for walking videos. He keeps it light and fun, and I am able to do speed walks to get those steps in a little faster than a traditional walk outside. I do prefer to be outside, but these videos get the job done nicely, and I still feel pretty accomplished.
This walking challenge also forced me to prepare in advance. Most days were routine and nothing out of the ordinary, but there was one weekend when I had to take a day trip that was 3 hours away. I knew I had to get up much earlier to complete my 2 mile walk. It was a sacrifice of sleep on my part, but I pushed because I wanted to achieve the goal, and also show you how a little planning can make things somewhat easier. Days are busy and very full for all of us, but when we want something, we have to find a way to get it done.
So, aside from the push I felt during this challenge, I also learned quite a bit. I learned that I can do hard things. I learned that walking is also a form of self-care for me. I learned that there are other people out there like me who need a little support and push to hit their goals. I have to say thank you to those of you who joined in and encouraged me, and let me know how encouraged you were. People were so encouraged that you asked for a new round of this walking challenge next month, so I'm getting to work on it now. We got this!
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