Plateaus: "I Think I Can, I Think I Can"

Remember the story of the little engine that could? I think everyone remembers it and for those who do not, I will refresh your memory. The story goes like this:

A large train needs to be pulled over a large mountain and a rough terrain. Well, larger engines were asked to pull the train and they refused and the only one left to ask was the little engine. Although it was a huge task the little engine agrees to try. Well through the ups and downs of the haul the little engine struggled but kept going and repeated to himself, "I think I can, I think I can." As he neared the end of his destination, he began to slow down, tired from the haul and drawing on bravery, he kept going. As he reached the end he kept saying to himself, "I thought I could, I thought I could." The little engine that could succeeded at the task at hand because he did not give up although he was tired and struggled.

That's where I am right now. I have 6 more pounds to lose and I'm struck at a plateau. It feels hard to exercise because I'm not seeing results on the scale for all of my hard work. When I think about this plateau, I say, "I think I can, I think I can," just like that little engine. Getting to the other side of this plateau is important no matter how long it takes. Yes, I'm tired and yes, I'm struggling but I'm still moving forward. I'm using this plateau as practice for maintaining my weight once I've reached my goal. I'm staying focused on the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and the commitment and hard work required to get there. So on my tough days, I say, "I think I can, I think I can" and I exercise. When I complete a workout session I say, "I thought I could, I thought I could." I haven't broken through yet but I will. So hang in there through your plateaus because you will break through too.