There’s no understanding how or why a mood or attitude can change so quickly for the better. Somewhere between the storm anxiety, a mini-meltdown over being behind in my progress for class and the eventual upswing, thanks to lots of consideration and talking things out here, I set myself up for success. Getting through emotional upheaval without succumbing to compulsive eating was a victory. I woke up this morning feeling downright invincible.
I want to bottle the feeling like fine perfume so that I can spritz myself with it every morning. (Note to self, Google perfume names and see if someone’s used Invincible already.)
I have just as much work on my plate as I did before; just as many commitments. I haven’t figured out how to add five more hours to the day or get by with less sleep and still be effective. Yet, I’m handling it all so much better than I did last week. To some extent, I attribute this to fewer hormonal fluctuations (I never got a period, by the way.), and an over all better, stronger, more determined attitude. I deal with the pressures differently than I used to, without running to my “drug of choice” to indulge in false comfort.
I’m going to nurture myself like I would build a fire. I struck the sparks by choosing to eat to my food plan. Each time I stay on track, I’m feeding my little flame. I’m breathing on it to help it gain strength and grow. Getting in my exercise is akin to stoking the fire with more substantial fuel so the flames can build, sending out even more light and warmth. I don’t need to go over the top and mass combust or rage out of control. Steady input keeps me burning bright.
For today, I’m strong and powerful. I’m invincible.
Weighty Matters 
I got seven hours of sleep a few days ago… I thought I could take on the whole world! :p
Yay for you!
You sound so strong and, yes, invincible, in this post! It’s so wonderful to “hear” this in your voice. Sometimes moods just change, too, but you have to be ready to pick up the good moods and to not let the bad ones control you, so you are doing awesomely.
Very powerful Mary. I’m sitting in the cold/dark..no power since the hurricane..and VERY aware that the choice to ‘eat away’ my feelings is gone..physically…and emotionally. So this inner strength/flame you speak of is apparent. I’m not yet invincible..I am a baby on this path..but i will keep in mind the picture of fanning those sparks..and I will get through. And this will pass. Thanks!
You can do it, Chrissy! Eating compulsively won’t make the power come back on but I truly understand storm stress. Hang in there. Love you!