Daily struggle with willpower

There is a reason that weight loss is often referred to as a roller coaster -- the journey is full of ups, downs, and twists in between.

In the journey to a healthier version of myself, I have encountered many different successes and many different failures. For example, I began running, something that I never dreamed I could do before. I was filled with excitement when I ran three miles without having to stop and walk for a little while. Likewise, I was extremely happy when I saw the first 10 pounds come off.

I am blessed to have my wife by my side during this journey, however, there are times when I feel that I have led both of us off the path toward healthier lifestyles. Both my wife and I love to eat foods that are not good for us. We love cookies, cake, cheeseburgers -- you name it. But I have a hard time saying no. There are times when it gets hard to take the time to make a healthy dinner. Perhaps we both had a bad day at work, or it is getting late, or the most popular, "I just don't feel like making anything." It is at that time when our will power is at its lowest that I have a difficult time saying no to fast food.

While I was in college, I ate fast food at least once a day, and because of that, I would say I developed a dependence on it. Growing up in a family that always sat down at the table for dinner and rarely ate out, I was like a kid in a candy store when the world of fast food was unveiled before me. What isn't there to like? It's fast, you don't have to make it and it tastes good. I still have work to do in battling my desire for fast food and other unhealthy items, but I know if I can say no once, it will keep getting easier.

To help boost my self-esteem and willpower, I have changed my desktop image on my work computer to one of my wedding photos. I look so happy and about 20 pounds heavier. I am still chasing that elusive 299 mark, but hopefully if I surround myself with positive things, I will get there. When I do, believe me, I will celebrate.

I welcome you along my journey and I would love to hear from readers about their successes and challenges. Please feel free to contact me by phone at (620) 223-1462, or by e-mail at mpommier@fstribune.com.