Chapter 1: Reflecting on the Journey

As I sit down to write this, I find myself feeling a bit apprehensive.

Among the many aspects of my life that bring me joy, there’s one persistent concern that has followed me since childhood. (Perhaps this is a challenge I may never fully conquer.) I was always on the heavier side as a kid, and even now, I carry a bit more weight than I’d like. With so many elements of my life aligning, I feel ready to shift some focus toward addressing my problem areas, particularly those stubborn love handles. I intend to share this journey with you.

Throughout the years, I have set clear goals for my career, relationships, family, spiritual growth, and creative endeavors, and for the most part, I’m content with where I stand. While there are still challenges ahead, overall, my life feels purposeful and directed. So, what’s next? What am I missing?

Let’s take a moment to go back about 40 years for a story that illustrates my youthful strength and size. I began playing Pop Warner football as soon as I was old enough, and I loved every second of it. Charging into a group of kids while carrying the ball was exhilarating. At just seven years old, I had a noticeable advantage in terms of size and strength.

One particular event stands out in my memory, almost like a legend rather than an actual occurrence. My best friend’s father was the coach of our team. My own father, who was divorced from my mother, would only show up occasionally. At the start of one game, we had to weigh in, and I was slightly over the limit. My friend’s dad and I jogged and spat around the field house, trying to make a difference before the weigh-in. After some encouragement and more spitting, I managed to qualify to play.

This experience meant I was likely the largest kid on the field, which is why they often called plays for me to run left or right. I would charge ahead, pushing through defenders while dragging a few along with me for a few yards. While I still carry some of that confidence today, the weight issue feels like a significant burden.

It’s not that I’m constantly overeating. However, I recognize that as we age, our metabolism shifts, and even with a reduced calorie intake, we can still gain weight if we don’t engage in regular vigorous exercise. Cutting out sodas and desserts won't suffice as it might have in my thirties.

So far, I’ve been patient with myself. However, today I’m questioning whether that patience has turned into complacency regarding my weight, especially while I’ve been intensely focused on other life areas. It’s not that I lack athleticism or fitness; I just seem to be carrying a few extra pounds when I step onto the tennis court. More importantly, if I were to view myself from a dating perspective, I doubt I would be attracted to myself either.

To initiate change, I’ve decided to take some straightforward steps. Today marked my last soda as I enjoyed a meal with my kids at a fast-food restaurant. I’m committing to no more sodas for the summer.

Next, I plan to reintegrate tennis into my weekly routine, even if it means rearranging family obligations. I’ll also reintroduce yoga or aikido to reconnect with my body and discover what feels balanced versus unbalanced. Lastly, I’m considering weekly sessions with a fitness coach, though I’m unsure if this is the right direction for me. While I know I need inspiration, I’m not yet convinced that a trainer will provide it.

I have patience, yes, but I am not satisfied with my appearance or how I feel most of the time.

What I require is a complete re-evaluation of my priorities regarding fitness in my life.

I’m uncertain how this will unfold in my blog, but stay tuned—positive changes are on the horizon, and I’m dedicated to transforming my body for the next 48 years so I can thrive instead of merely existing.

Some ideas I’m considering include:

• Joining a local karate dojo
• Participating in the Austin Cycling Meetup
• Locating my mountain bike and checking if it needs new tubes
• Increasing my tennis frequency (who’s up for a match?)
• Taking regular walks in my neighborhood
• Eating more fruits and vegetables (obviously)
• Figuring out how to handle working lunches
• Reducing sugar, cheese, and empty calories

Ten-Year Reflection: I made a promise to my kids: no sodas or candy throughout the summer. It's just a small step, but one I’m confident I can stick to. Once I establish such commitments, it empowers me to resist sugary temptations.

John McElhenney — Life Coach, Austin, Texas

Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | @wholeparent | wholeparent.org

Please Read: Letters to a Young Artist in the Digital Age from John McElhenney

Chapter 2: Embracing Change

The first video titled "30 Hours with Me - Upper and Lower Body Work, Finding Myself, and All the Updates" offers an insight into my journey, highlighting the importance of fitness and self-discovery.

The second video titled "How To Find Yourself" provides guidance on personal growth and self-awareness, reinforcing my commitment to this transformative journey.