What 28 Feels Like

Eric asked me how does it feel to be 28? I gave some unintelligent answer at that point (ok ok I was hungover at brunch, my bad), but for some reason, this question has stuck with me. I started thinking about my 20s as a whole and how much I've changed!

Me at 20 (top) vs. Me at 28 (bottom)

Fun fact? I'm actually 20lbs lighter in the first picture. But in the second? I have more muscle, more power, more speed, more endurance, and more confidence. 28 would kick 20's ass.

I read an article about visualization and how athletes have utilized this technique to set themselves apart from their competition. Marathoners have been known to run their entire races in their minds as they train and as a fellow runner, I know how important mental toughness is. Sometimes, it's the only thing that keeps you together. So I started thinking about what life would be like as "Fit Shawna".

"Fit Shawna" would be into everything. Always trying a new class and constantly challenging herself. She would be active on the weekends with activities not centered on drinking. She would be a whiz in the kitchen, cooking up tasty, but healthy meals. She would be social and enjoy all that life has to offer without guilt. "Fit Shawna" would have a strong body that she loves. She would be happy with who she is and not concerned with the people who didn't appreciate her lifestyle.

What I came to realize is that I don't have to be a certain weight to start living a "Fit Shawna" life. Rather, I needed to start making more changes so that real life mirrors what I imagine. I am going to continue to slip, fall, stumble, get back up, crawl, walk, run forward until I hit my goals. In the past, after slipping up like I did in August, I would've said the hell with it and bring on the pizza. But I'm not. I'm changing my mindset and going to fight harder. I am ready to stop trying to find an easier road and to make the necessary sacrifices CHANGES to keep this promise of getting healthy to myself.

So what does 28 feel like? 

That the pieces are falling into place

for the best Shawna yet.