Size 12

Nothing feels better when you're losing than walking into a trendy store and finding a pair of jeans that fit perfectly and are of a size that feels good to purchase.

This happened to me last week when I purchased a new pair of size 12 jeans at The Gap. I know, I know... some of you hate The Gap. I hate their prices, but their jeans fit me better than any other brand so I paid the money and came home happy.

As I enjoy my new jeans, I am already thinking about my next goal, size 10, which I previously achieved in January of 2010. I have a stack of size 10 jeans purchased throughout 2010 that I haven't been able to wear in months. As much as I like my new jeans, I cannot wait to wear all those size 10's again.

Also, I'll point something out here. Notice how I'm focusing on my "size" and not so much on my weight? I do step on the scale from time to time, but it is my size that matters to me. I know from previous "dunk" tests that I have a LOT of muscle. Muscle weighs more than fat so if I only focus on my weight, I could get discouraged. Using my clothes to gauge my size is a much better way to determine if my body is actually getting smaller and isn't that the goal? You can accomplish the same thing by regularly taking your measurements, but I find it easier just to use clothes for this... no numbers to track!

I'll end by giving myself yet another pat on the back for this achievement. Have you given yourself a pat on the back lately for something? If not, I encourage you to find something about yourself to be happy with - something real you can acknowledge and truly feel good about. I'm sure you'll think of something and when you do, give yourself the love and encouragement you deserve. Feeling good about yourself and your life will help you no matter what your size.