Changing My Habits

Before I had kids I always told myself I'd exercise right after I had them and lose all of my baby weight before I had another baby.
I had my first child in 2005. After I had him, I got into a routine that did not include exercise.
Before I knew it, along came #2 in 2007. I didn't lose any of her weight either. Then, I had my 3rd this March and decided enough was enough. I wanted to change my habits, get back in shape, and take control of my weight.
I started small, since my body wasn't used to a lot of stress.
In order to fit exercise into my schedule, I had to start early in the morning. I am NOT a morning person, so it was really hard getting up. But, I did it. (I may have whined to my hubby about it, but just a little...)
I started my exercising journey with running. I was never a runner, and hadn't run at all since high school. And even then I only ever ran 2 miles. Usually stopping and walking a few times.

So, the first time I laced up my shoes and headed to the track, I ran half a mile.
The next time a mile.
Then, a mile and half, and so on. Slowly getting my body used to it. I had horrible side aches at first, and sounded horrible with my loud breathing, but I got used to it.
Over a few weeks time, I got up to three miles without stopping.
I joined a gym.
I started eating better.

And you know what? I can proudly say, I've exceeded my expectations. I've lost about 30 pounds since April, and even though I still have some to lose, I feel so much better about myself. I ran my first 5K in September with my cute mom and sisters and got a decent time.

I'm the short one...1135 :)
I'm wanting to train for a sprint triathlon next summer, but I may wait until I'm done having kids. It is on my list to do though! I will do it someday.

Now, what does this have to do with writing you ask?
Well, when I first started writing 2 years ago, I knew next to nothing about formatting a manuscript, watching out for adverbs, querying agents and so on.
I started small, researching things about this new, strange hobby of mine.
Then I wrote a book.
And another.
I researched agents and publishers, bookmarking their webpages for later use.
I read books on writing.
I set aside time at night after my kidlets went to bed to write.
I wrote another book, since my other two were no where near what they should be. And probably never will be.
I joined a critique group.
Made some writing friends.

And now, I feel so much better about myself in that aspect as well. I don't know the business like a lot of people do, but I do know a ton more than I did when I first started.
It takes work. Patience. And sometimes a lot of tears.
But, when you get into a routine, you feel so much better about yourself. Whether it's writing, exercising or whatever.
I've learned so much, and absolutely love my critique group and the great feedback I get on my book.
So, make a routine. Set a goal, and work it into your everyday schedule. You won't regret it.

Happy Monday everyone! ;)