Getting there . . .

Ever had a really, really good workout? Like one that changes your entire outlook on life? I had one of those today. I went to the gym for the first time in about a month, and I instantly felt rejuvinated, like there was nothing I couldn't do. It's odd -- I had to pretty much force myself to get up and go, but once I got there and started on the elliptical machine, listening to my iPod, it was as if there was no stopping me. "I am going to reach my goal, dammit!" I kept telling myself. "And I'm going to stop making excuses!"

I don't know exactly what caused this spur of motivation, but maybe it has something to do with last weekend. I was reunited with my childhood buddies at a friend's wedding back home, and a lot of people told me how great I looked. Some of my parents' friends claimed they didn't even recognize me! That sounded kind of strange, but I understood what they were getting at. The compliments woke me up and begged the question: where did my dedication go?

I've declared several times in the past few weeks that I would get back on track, but that hasn't gone so well. At the risk of crying wolf again, things really do feel different at this moment. I feel different. I've found my desire again, my will to push on. I'm pretty sure I won't reach my goal by my 25th birthday at the end of the month, but at least I'm staying more positive now than I have in awhile. And I think my improved mindset is a strong step in the right direction.