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aj-anime-blog · 4 years ago

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Deca-Dence - Review!

Wooooo Deca-Dence!

Deca-Dence was a summer 2020 anime, and that’s when I originally watched it! I've watched it about a dozen times since, as it landed itself right on my roster of my favorite animes, if not my favorite of all time.

Deca-Dence is an original piece, so no manga source material (whaaat!) and comes from the genius brain of Yuzuru Tachikawa, the director of other fan-favorites like Mob Psycho 100 and Death Parade (a review for Death Parade is in the making!). Original mangas are such a hit-or-miss recently, and I think that this one got the bullseye!

What's our concept?: Set in the future, the world is now plagued by monsters known as Gadolls. In an attempt to keep humans safe from them, mobile fortress Deca-Dence was constructed, where Gears, who live near the top, fight the Gadolls, and Tankers, who live at the bottom, provide support from inside Deca-Dence. Our protag, Natsume, is a Tanker who wants to fight with the Gears, but her prosthetic arm keeps her out of battle. That is until she meets Kaburagi, an older Tanker who seems to know his way around fighting and might have more to him than he lets on.

It's gonna be hard to go through this without spoilers, but I promise that I'll keep it spoiler-free until the section at the bottom!

So overall, what do I think?: 10/10! I've already said it, but Deca-Dence is one of my favorite animes of all time, and it deserves the spot! It has incredible characters, a story that keeps you hooked even through twists and turns, and a pace that manages to cram so much plot into only 12 episodes without feeling overwhelming or rushed! Deca-Dence presents ideas that, at the surface, may seem overused or old, but spins them in such a way that they're completely original. It follows through with character relationships, making them worthwhile and fulfilling.

Let's start with the story this time!: 10/10!! It's going to be really hard to explain the beauty of Deca-Dence's plot without spoiling it, but I'm doing my best! I really do recommend just giving the show a try, though, as it's really worth it! (Don't just drop it after episode 2, like a lot of people did :( That's just judging it wayyy too early!!)

Deca-Dence has a story that's thrilling and new. Everything that happens builds off of itself in a way that's natural and smooth. The elements of the story, no matter how different they may seem, play their part and work together well. The show isn't predictable either - don't go in thinking that you know what's going to become of it. Each twist feels surprising and new without feeling like they're coming out of left field.

I won't say much more in fear of ruining it, but Deca-Dence's story holds up well, and with its strong cast of characters supporting it, it becomes absolutely suburb. I think a lot of people fell into this pit of seeing only the beginning and tossing it aside, but no matter how strange the concepts in it may be, they wind together to form something really unique!

So those characters, huh?: 11/10, I love them so much! I'm a character nerd through and through, and Deca-Dence sends my little character-obsessed heart wild. The protags, Natsume and Kaburagi, are both fascinating, have incredible development, and engage in a character dynamic that is so natural and well-written that I never doubted it.

To be honest, Natsume doesn't have a personality that's anything new. She's young, determined to a fault, naive, and a complete sweetheart. She wants to fight the Gadoll and she'll do anything to achieve that dream. She's not a natural at fighting but her motivation to do so makes her believable and relatable. She's looked down upon because of her prosthetic arm and forced into a job that she doesn't like, but she never gives up on her goals. Even though she's so simple, her interactions and energy make her lovable and a wonderful protagonist.

Kaburagi follows the washed-out warrior trope, as he's an older man assigned to clean-up duty who keeps to himself and never shows too much emotion. While this type of character can sometimes get annoying, the show gives Kaburagi enough time to show his real feelings and explain how he got to his position. This proper development keeps him down-to-Earth and shows him as even more flawed than Natsume. Kaburagi's motivation, which I can't explain for spoiler reasons, is entirely believable and explains perfectly why he decides to put up with Natsume, even though she's his polar opposite.

The relationship between the two characters is balanced and beautiful. It's given the proper time to grow, mature, and ends up being extremely worthwhile. Natsume relies on Kaburagi, as he sees the potential in her and continues to support her in ways no one else ever has, and Kaburagi understands that Natsume is everything that he's trying to rebel against. Their relationship is emotional, runs deep, and leaves you wishing that there was more of them to watch, even after the show has ended.

The villain! The villain. I cannot talk all that much about the villain at the risk of spoiling. He is evil. I really really hated him, and that is a very good thing because it means that he's well-written. His motivation makes sense, his actions make you want to strangle him, his design was really really good! He's not the most interesting thing in the show, as his character is really only there to move the story along, but not every villain needs to be incredibly deep for a show to be good.

Lastly, our supporting characters! While none of them are as wonderful as Natsume or Kaburagi, they're still interesting and hold their own. They play important parts in the show and all of their interactions with the main two feel natural. Their conflicts make sense, their resolutions feel well-earned, and their personalities are all unique! For a 12-episode anime, there's a larger cast of supporting characters than you would think, and nearly all of them are memorable and loveable.

Time to shut up about characters, what about the art?: 9/10, ooooh yes the art! Deca-Dence is gorgeous! It's animated by studio Nut (bwahahhaha), who haven't done that much else in the anime world. Still, for a relatively new studio, it's absolutely amazing! The characters all have unique looks that make them stand out and the fight scenes are to die for. They lose a point on the CG, since it's a little bit less than amazing, but again, for a new studio, it's definitely not the worst I've seen!! (Admittedly, I also don't like CG much at all, so I'm always harsh towards it when it's used).

Deca-Dence switches between two styles that vastly contradict each other, one which is a colorful, happy-go-lucky style, and one that's the more typical anime style. I'll speak more about them in the spoilers section, but they do a wonderful job at maintaining the tone of the show, as to not let it get too dark, and forming a clear divide between the events of the two parts.

Oh goshhh the Gadolls look so cool. I'm so obsessed with cool monsters in anime and woah they look awesome!! They're original, with cool designs that I haven't seen elsewhere. The show could've so easily slapped in some pretty typical-looking dragons or wolves or whatever, but they instead spent time on these epic creatures, and it's so worth it! It makes the setting that much more unique and allows it to stand out from other animes.

Surely there's a flaw in this anime? The pacing, maybe?: 9/10. Yeah, I would argue that the pacing is Deca-Dence's weakest point. Not that the pacing is particularly bad compared to other shows! I still think that, for a 12-episode anime, it does a wonderful job of fitting in a large amount of plot into only about 5 hours! But, at some points, parts felt rushed or confusing, as the show would zoom into them. I never felt like I was truly lost, though. Even if I did wish that there was a break from the action, I never found myself really thinking that the show was leaving me behind in the dust. It's not the kind of show that you can turn on and leave running while you multitask, though. Blink for too long and you might miss something important, which can ruin some of the hard-hitting twists that the anime works so hard to build up.

OK! Time for spoilers! I beg you, go watch the anime before you read past this, because it's totally worth it!!

Woahh episode 2 am I right?? I thought that I clicked into the wrong anime when I began it, it took such a wild turn, and so soon in the anime too. This is what I really mean when I talk about a show not being what it appears to be! Again, I really encourage you to watch it for yourself, but if you're that stubborn on reading this through before you turn it on:

Deca-Dence is not about the heart-wrenching battles between Gears and their desperate attempts to keep humanity alive, because Gears are just avatars for cyborgs! You see, there's a civilization of cyborg people who are living above the Earth, who log in to fight in mobile fortress Deca-Dence as a game. So the Gadolls are genetically grown as prey for the Gears and the entire story surrounding Deca-Dence's battles are scripted. Crazy right!? The best part: the Tankers aren't in on this at all. You heard me: Natsume and her human friends have no idea that Deca-Dence is staged.

From here, Deca-Dence has two distinct parts: we'll call them "Natsume's half" and "Kaburagi's half". Natsume's half refers to the mobile fortress, the Tankers who live unaware of the cyborgs, and the art style that premiered in the first episode. Kaburagi's half is the Solid Quake organization, the Gears who are avatars of the cyborgs, and the goofy, stylized art style with big lines and bright colors.

The twist and the diverging sides of the story set this show up as not your typical sci-fi anime, but as something a little deeper. The stakes are the same, as humanity is in just as much peril as it was before - it becomes abundantly clear that the Gears and cyborgs don't care about them - but the name of the game completely changes as you realize that our so-called "heroes" aren't really all that heroic, and there's a lot more going on.

Kaburagi is, of course, one of these cyborgs, cursed to live among the Tankers because of a mistake he made while playing as a Gear. Now, he's in charge of eliminating "bugs", or mistakes that the system finds. He's upset with his life, frustrated at what he's doing, and contemplating suicide. But when Natsume walks into his life, a little girl that the system considers legally dead, Kaburagi sees a chance to rebel, even the slightest, against the system. He's supposed to kill Natsume, but instead, he takes her under his wing, determined to protect what he's been instructed to eliminate. This development gives their relationship a deeper meaning, even if Natsume doesn't know it.

Deca-Dence does a wonderful job at showing the watchers both sides of the story but keeping Natsume's side in the dark. Even though we see scenes from Kaburagi's side, Natsume knows nothing about them. When Kaburagi leaves after Hugin kills his avatar, Nastume doesn't know where he's gone and has no reason to believe that he hasn't run away. There's no way she could guess that Kaburagi's new form - his weird orange Gear avatar - is the mentor that she once knew. And when Kaburagi, back in his original form, is killed in front of her, she really believes that he is dead. When Natsume finds out about the truth of the Gadolls - that the world she knows is fake - her horror is palpable and realistic, because there's no way she could've known any better.

Kaburagi's world has a goofy style to it, with the cyborgs looking cartoonish rather than realistic. While it might initially seem off-putting, I think that it ends up balancing the tone of the story much better. Consider the hellscape that is the reform facility that Kaburagi visits. Imagine how dark it would've been if it was not in a silly style! By keeping the style cuter rather than realistic, the show doesn't dip too far into dark and gritty, and I really liked it!

It also set up this harsh divide between Kabruagi's half, where things are easygoing, done for pleasure and fun, and not nearly as harsh as Natsume's world (Look at the name of the series! Decadence literally means living in excessive luxury!). Even when the cyborgs are in their Gear forms, which are drawn in Natsume's style, they're still a lot more colorful and vivid, showing that their lives aren't as harsh as that of the Tankers. The art styles reflect the differences between the two halves and give them both distinct tones and personalities!

& finally, let's take an in-depth look at one scene!: I had a really hard time picking what I thought summed up the series in a single scene. In the end, I think that Natsume and Kaburagi's discussion at the end of episode 7 was the best. Here, we see a culmination of a lot of the character development going on. Kaburagi, in this scene, is in a Gears avatar that Natsume doesn't recognize, meeting her for the first time since his normal avatar was killed. Natsume's been working with the Tankers to protect them from Gadolls that infiltrated the fortress, and she's motivated them all to rise up and fix the hole in the fortress themselves.

Kaburagi has encouraged Natsume to be a stronger person, even though she had to be independent and not rely on him any longer. His pessimistic view on the world - that they'll never defeat the Gadolls - has rubbed off on her, but it's only made her more determined to be stronger to stand up to them. In this scene, we see her breaking down as she considers that Kaburagi might be right, and that she'll never kill them all, but that she needs to continue fighting.

Though Kaburagi previously doubted Natsume and her endless determination, he now feels filled with the same motivation. Natsume has convinced him, time and time again, that he can't give up, and so he decides that he's willing to do anything to make sure that she never loses that hope. He wants her dreams to come true, and he knows that she can't accomplish them alone.

This perfectly shows the effects that they have on one another. Natsume is now stronger than she's ever been: independent, able to take down Gadolls on her own, and determined enough to patch up the hole that no one else thought could be fixed. Kaburagi, in stark contrast to his suicidal thoughts from episode two, is now completely devoted to make the world a safe place for Natsume. Their relationship has shaped one another into being the best versions of themselves, and this isn't even the end! They still complete their growth in the last few episodes, but I've rambled about them enough.

We're done!: That's my review of Deca-Dence! I really believe that it's one of the masterpiece animes in recent years, and I wish it got more attention. I'm sure that there's plenty of anime out there like this one - forgotten diamonds in the rough - that I'd love to dig up and fawn over. Tell me if you know any! Or, if you disagree with my review, tell me where you think I'm wrong!

#time to go rewatch deca-dence #writing about it has made me miss it so much #its sooooo good #please check it out #it's so worth it #studio nut #bwahahah #studio NUT #lmaoooo #please tell them to get a better name #deca-dence #anime #anime review #summer 2020

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whatisonthemoonarchive · 5 years ago

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Rev. Chung Hwan Kwak’s letter (April 22, 2020) Letter to Blessed families, brothers and sisters of the Unification Movement

Beloved Blessed families, brothers and sisters, I hope that God’s love and divine protection may always be with you and your families. As we celebrate Reverend Sun Myung Moon, True Father’s 100th birthday in 2020, I pray the unique experiences and moments you had with Father on earth can feel even more alive and become the catalyst and motivation for your lives. Today, I am sending what could be my last letter to you with a very desperate heart. At this moment, I can’t merely stand by looking at the sad situation our Unification Movement is in. Especially when I think of how today True Father’s lifelong achievements for the realization of God’s peaceful ideal world should be shining the brightest and when the providential movement he led should be bearing its best fruit. After much thought and consideration, I decided to write this letter. Last spring, on the occasion of the 7th anniversary of True Father’s Seonghwa, I published my book Truth Shall Prevail after a decade of silence. Throughout the entire writing process I was overtaken by a longing for Father and felt sorry towards him. In that book, I testified to the kind of person that True Father was from the perspective of someone who experienced him at the closest position for over 50 years. Furthermore, the book serves as a truthful historical and factual record of the situation I witnessed amid the confusion that took place in the Unification Movement for the last 10 years. When I heard that many Blessed family members were able to open their eyes to the truth and gained the courage to start over again through reading that book, I sincerely prayed that the book can serve to comfort Father and that it may become a light that guides the Unification Movement in the right direction. Meanwhile, around that time last year I participated in the centennial commemorative celebration of the March 1st movement at the plaza in front of the National Assembly building. I was moved beyond words. One Japanese female NGO activist went on stage and shouted out that she made it this far because she was fascinated by Dr. Hyun Jin Moon’s “Korean Dream”. I could not but feel a surge of excitement. Hyun Jin Nim’s masterful and eloquent speech in front of the National Assembly moved all the honorable guests, including the mayor of Seoul, Won-soon Park. During the event that was being broadcast live nationally, I tried not to get choked up every time I saw Hyun Jin Nim’s image appear on the stage on screen. All I could think of was how happy Father would have been were he alive and watching this scene. Last summer, my wife and the families of my children participated in the Special Blessing Ceremony for the Foundation of Cheon Il Guk officiated by Hyun Jin Nim. We received the great blessing of being able to engraft onto the True Family once again. As our true Abel and elder brother, Hyun Jin Nim forgave the Blessed families that had deserted and persecuted him. He offered this opportunity for Blessed families to participate in that Blessing ceremony, with the hope that they will repent, return, and reconnect to the True Family to walk the path as owners of Cheon Il Guk. This Special Blessing Ceremony for the Foundation of Cheon Il Guk is not a one-off Blessing ceremony event, but rather a process that all Blessed families must go through to atone for their mistakes. Although I can’t explain the entire meaning of it in this letter, I believe you should know that it is of grave providential importance. Last winter there was a very happy occasion in Hyun Jin Nim’s family. One of Hyun Jin Nim’s daughters received the holy wedding with her parents as officiators of the ceremony. In no time, four of Hyun Jin Nim’s nine children established a 3-generation True Family. The day after the holy wedding a group of First and Second-Generation grooms and brides participated in a joint Blessing ceremony with Hyun Jin Nim’s couple as the officiators. Three of my grandchildren also received the Blessing that day. I feel incredible hope seeing Hyun Jin Nim wholly inherit and develop the core mission that Father carried on, advancing internal and external goals abiding by God’s providential standard and the Principle. Considering all the hardship endured over the last 10 years and the situations that took place behind the scenes, it is truly moving and one can only shed tears of gratitude and be thankful to Heaven to see Hyun Jin Nim’s family settle as it has. Overcoming this sacrificial process Hyun Jin Nim’s entire family set the most exemplary precedent and tradition of the True Family before Heaven. Not only that, he also forgave Blessed families and opened the path for them to reconnect to God’s Will and the providence; externally he lay the great foundation of our providential movement for South Korea and the world. Isn’t this the biggest consolation and hope for True Father as he enters his 100th birthday? If there are those among you who are truly concerned for Hyun Jin Nim and are offering jungsung for him, I ask that you have a little bit more courage and approach Hyun Jin Nim’s public letters, prayers, or his official books, such as “Realizing God’s Dream” or “Korean Dream”. Taking it one step further, I earnestly ask you to please check for yourselves directly the type of work he has been doing and the type of life that Hyun Jin Nim has been leading. We used to tell those who unilaterally opposed Father that if they wanted to know who Reverend Sun Myung Moon was, they should go and see for themselves the work that he did. Likewise, if you want to really know what kind of person Hyun Jin Nim is, you will find the answer in the work that he does and the life that he leads. Blessed families, brothers and sisters, Because we are celebrating the 100th birthday and 8th anniversary of True Father’s Seonghwa this year, I see this period as one of great providential transformation. Though the confusion within the Unification Movement reached a climax, from this year it will begin to correct itself faster than you can anticipate. The calls for self-purification will not be heard from Heaven but from earth. That’s because Blessed families who want to protect God’s will and True Father’s achievements will resolutely stand up and their spirit will spread like wildfire. For me, more than anything else, I believe in the removal of all false figures cast upon True Father’s fundamental teachings and great lifetime achievements, so that their original true worth may be shown to the world; and thereby opening a new era that can inspire courage and hope in all people. Hyun Jin Nim will be standing at the forefront of that effort with righteous and determined Blessed families participating together. Some day, as if by fate, the entire Unification Movement will follow the path that they opened for us. If you have properly perceived the big picture of this providential moment—even though we see all sorts of regrettable content one after the other coming from some parts of the Unification Movement today—you will not need to feel disappointment or despair. It’s the phenomenon of disgusting pus oozing and exploding from all the sores and abscesses that the Unification Movement suffered from for a long time. But it’s also a hopeful sign that new skin will grow. This is a process by which the providence is corrected; truth and lies are determined; and Principled and unprincipled acts are clearly differentiated. Therefore, we must move forward with the mentality that we will be the ones to take responsibility over this problem, discerning that which is right and wrong from a principled perspective and from the viewpoint of God’s will and providence. That is what True Father expected of us—it’s the 5% portion of responsibility given to each and every one of us. And it cannot but be the final responsibility of our elder Blessed family members who are entering the final stage of their lives on earth. I recently heard the news that Mother did away with the “Family Federation” and started a new “Heavenly Parents Church”. I see this phenomenon as a clear separation of that which is true and that which is false at the final moment. Looking just at this latest direction from Mother, it is evident that she completely left Father and is walking down a road that goes against God’s providence. Brothers and sisters, how was the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification born and what was the mission of that providential organization? The founding of the Family Federation was considered a great providential shift, so how did the providence change before and after its founding? Did True Father’s passing signify the end of the need for the Family Federation? If we answer these questions correctly, we will understand how Mother’s decision to go on with her “Heavenly Parents Church” is counter-providential. After going through a period of indemnity for 40 years, True Father opened the era of the Completed Testament Age. As the first International President, I remember clearly that Father was so deeply moved when he founded the Family Federation that he took the lead in the preparation for the founding of this providential organization. The reason Father was so moved was not because he established another providential organization among many. It’s because the providential moment for Father to walk the original path that he was supposed to walk as the Messiah, Lord of the Second Coming, True Parent had finally begun after 40 years. The launching of the Family Federation represented the great providential transition from the era of the providence of restoration to the era of the Completed Testament Age: The establishment of a peaceful ideal world centered on God’s ideal family. In other words, it meant the beginning of creating a world of one family under God. More precisely, with the settlement of the True Family, which carries God’s original lineage, all of humanity would engraft on to that True Family and become God’s children of goodness and lineage through the Blessing movement. And the expansion of that Blessing movement would lead to the realization of God’s ideal world. The most important mission that the Family Federation had at that significant turning point of the providence was the Settlement of the True Parents and the True Family, which are the root of God’s providential Movement. In order for the True Family to settle centered on the True Parents, not only do the Three Great Kingships and the Four Great Realms of Heart have to be secured, but the standard of uniting the Cain-type and Abel-type realms has to be achieved. True Father did not desire succession by an institutionalized church system as exists in established religious entities for future generations. As Father tended to ask: If Jesus had direct descendants, would he have bequeathed his crown to his disciples? Father desired for the son that he publicly recognized to inherit the same authority Father held and to continue his messianic mission. In order to set that order and tradition, after recognizing Hyun Jin Nim in 1998, Father announced the Era of Father-Son Cooperation. Father said that in the future even Mother should follow the son that Father recognized then. Not only that, but the Blessed families representing the worldwide Cain-type realm have to become one with the realm of the True Children, especially with the elder son recognized by Father, thereby uniting the Cain-Abel realms. The condition of that Cain-Abel unity is necessary for the Settlement of the True Family, and it is on that basis that Foundation Day can be proclaimed. One other important mission the Family Federation was supposed to achieve was the awakening of humankind’s universal spirituality through the Blessing movement. It was supposed to fulfill the role of educating and guiding people starting from each individual family so that each family could establish a God-centered family fulfilling each family member’s individual portion of responsibility, thereby leading to the expansion of that cultural realm from the tribal level to the nation and to the world. In order to open the providential era prior to the Family Federation, True Father announced the establishment of the Family Pledge on May 1, 1994, he opened the era in which we could report (pray) in our own names, and established the Hoondok tradition. These were radical measures announced by Father one after the other. All of these measures were intimately connected and were meant to be for human beings, who had restored the original parent-child relationship that was intended at Creation, to fulfill their portion of responsibility at the basic family level in the Completed Testament Age. These were traditions that were absolutely necessary to substantially establish God’s ultimate sovereignty on this earth. At the time, as I was honoring True Father’s words, I wondered whether the people leading the Family Federation truly understood the significance of the great providential transition that had taken place. And I could not but seriously question whether they fully carried out their public responsibility and mission. Because if they had properly understood and honored True Father’s will, there would not be the confusion that exists today. Since I was in charge of the Family Federation at the time, I am by no means free from this responsibility. Although externally the Family Federation carried out a variety of activities and increased the number of Blessed families, they only acted as the “Family Federation” in name—leaders desired it to settle as just any other church. The gravest mistake they made was to divinize True Parents and repeat the error that Christianity made towards Jesus. The leaders went as far as to absolutize True Parents and use that concept as a way to maintain their own authority. They made a false framework that ‘any order given from True Parents must absolutely be followed since True Parents are one in body and spirit and are omniscient,’ and took advantage of it treating members like ignorant masses to be exploited. And they especially used this mentality to drive out Hyun Jin Nim, who was their biggest threat. After True Father passed onto spirit world, the leaders propagated the idea that Mother could communicate with Father—asking questions and receiving answers—and that Father and Mother were always connected as one, to make members blindly follow any direction that came from Mother’s mouth. The messiah is a human being and is not a being that knows everything. As a person advances in age normal bodily functions weaken, eventually growing old and sick. It is also the case with one’s mental state. True Father was not an exception to human aging. Because Father was well aware of this point it is said that he told Hyun Jin Nim around 2007 that, “there will come a time when Father is like a child,” and therefore, when that time comes you (Hyun Jin Nim) should go on and take responsibility over everything. The FFWPU leadership promoted that Mother was completely united with Father, and even Mother spoke as if she was asking questions and receiving answers from God Himself. Such claims are completely contrary to the Principle and are a mockery and insult to both God and Father. One can know whether Mother is united with Father, or whether she is one with God’s will by looking at her words and actions. If the leaders really had confidence on this point they would not have promoted it heavily the way they did; and even if Mother didn’t say that she communicated with God and received answers, people would naturally have followed Mother and they would have testified to her being one with God and Father. Although Hyun Jin Nim attempted to reform the Family Federation numerous times after being inaugurated as International Vice-President in 1998, he repeatedly faced opposition and had to experience frustration and setbacks. At one point in 2009, the FFWPU leadership even attempted to drive him away from the Unification Movement—to leave him out in the wilderness. The sin that these FFWPU leaders falsely blamed upon Hyun Jin Nim was that he was a son who disobeyed Father’s direction and that he was a thief who stole public assets. The truly ironic thing is that as these leaders blamed and criticized Hyun Jin Nim, the people of the world recognized Dr. Hyun Jin Moon as the person who fully inherited Rev. Sun Myung Moon’s will and continued on his work. They evaluated Hyun Jin Nim as the person who achieved incredible results to advance Father’s work. I want to sincerely ask you: Who is the person that inherited Father’s authority? And who really usurped Father’s foundation? Who is the person that is truly realizing Father’s will in this era? On December 2, 2017, Hyun Jin Nim inaugurated the Family Peace Association (FPA). Because the Family Federation had strayed from its original mission and it was no longer possible to work with that vehicle, Hyun Jin Nim made this determination. At the inaugural speech of FPA, he said, “for me personally, this inauguration expresses my commitment to continuing my father’s lifelong work.” Today, 3 years after the founding of FPA—considering that Mother is throwing away the Family Federation and changing to her new “Heavenly Parents Church” that has no relevance with the providence—one cannot but be amazed at the mysterious ways in which God’s providence works and at Hyun Jin Nim’s incredible foresight. For members being forced to change their faith onto the Heavenly Parents Church, which is like a spiritual death sentence, the Family Peace Association founded by Hyun Jin Nim is like a lifeboat that came to the rescue. After True Father’s Seonghwa ceremony, Mother changed and eliminated many things he established. Mother changed and distorted the Eight Great Textbooks that Father directly canonized. And she made the Cheon Il Guk constitution as if they were laws of a particular religion, instead of upholding Father’s desire to complete a proper constitution based on the Family Pledge. And there are other examples in which she eliminated Father’s precious achievements overnight. Mother went as far as changing her own identity. In all of human history she was the most precious being because True Father went through a course to re-create her to become True Mother. But she threw away the status of True Mother and reappeared with a new name as the “only begotten daughter”. Now she claims that she is a being that was born without original sin for the first time in 6000 years, and that she knew the Principle without receiving education from anyone. Mother’s assertions are in direct contradiction and opposition to True Father’s teaching that the messiah, who comes as completed Adam, finds and selects a woman among fallen women, and receives her as a bride. Mother’s claims completely turn against Father’s teaching that, “God invested His 100% to create Adam, and Adam invests his 100% to create Eve.” I gave Principle lectures in person to Mother during the beginning of Parents’ holy wedding period, and upon Mother’s request I even gave her documents with a summary of the main points of the Principle. Knowing this, I truly have no way of understanding how Mother could make such false and unprincipled claims. Taking it a step even further from claiming herself to be the “only begotten daughter”, Mother changed the designation of God to “Heavenly Parents”. Some may say this is not a problem because it looks like an expression of God as our Parent. However, it is actually a claim of dualism that shakes the very foundation of the monotheistic view of God that comes from the Judeo-Christian line of faith. It also stems from ignorance and from not properly understanding God’s original state explained both in the Divine Principle and in Unification Thought. The term “Heavenly Parent” occasionally appears in The Sermons of the Reverend Sun Myung Moon. But, the term “Heavenly Parent” that appears in The Sermons is more of an expression used to emphasize the heartistic relationship between God and humanity. Its meaning is completely different from the “Heavenly Parents” that is mentioned in Mother’s autobiography or in FFWPU memos. Furthermore, according to “The Principle of Creation” in the Exposition of the Divine Principle, God is defined as “the Subject in whom the dual characteristics of original internal nature and original external form are in harmony. At the same time, God is the harmonious union of masculinity and femininity, which manifest the qualities of original internal nature and original external form, respectively.” In this definition the original internal nature and original external form are the primary characteristics, and the masculine and feminine aspects are His attributes, according to the Principle and Unification Thought. What ultimately remains is God as a “Subject with dual characteristics in harmony.” As such, the proper definition of God is that of a subject with dual characteristics in harmony (neutral), so why is Mother obsessing with the attributes of masculinity and femininity which are not even the primary characteristics? The reason for that is because of the influence of feminism over Mother. This can be understood from what is written in the Introduction of her new autobiography. Trying to understand God from the theological perspective of a radical feminist, the only thing they can see is the part that talks about God’s attributes regarding His ‘dual characteristics of masculinity and femininity’. This only goes to show how Mother and those around her are ignorant regarding the Principle or the history of the providence. “However, due to the fall of human ancestors the ideal of creation of the Heavenly Parents was prolonged, and, a male-centric history proceeded centered on God’s masculinity as Heavenly Father instead of the status of Heavenly Parents. Hellenism and Hebraism, which formed the foundation of Western civilization, advanced a strictly male-centric history. Therefore, the status of Heavenly Mother which is God’s femininity was concealed, and God could not become Heavenly Parents. The reason the feminist movement that detonated in the West degenerated into a mere revolutionary movement of resistance against the rule of men is also related to God’s ontological status.” - “Mother of peace”, Introduction – This time, when Mother announced that they would no longer be the Family Federation, and that they were adopting a new identity and name as the Heavenly Parents Church, I wondered what providential pretext would be offered to justify it. According to the public notice issued on April 4th, 2020, by the FFWPU, it stated that, “Because [we are] in a position to embrace all 7.7 billion people around the world, we are no longer the Unification Church and we are no longer the Family Federation. We are changing the name to the Heavenly Parents Church.” These words reveal Mother’s low level of understanding of the Principle and her view of the providence. Because the world can’t be embraced through the Family Federation, she will create an even more narrow church denomination to do that? What kind of nonsensical claim is this? Her words mean that the Family Federation isn’t good enough to embrace the whole world, then isn’t that saying that Father created a providential organization that is limited? It is truly hard to agree with her claims. And that is because as he officially inaugurated the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification in 1996 and 1997, True Father internationally and interreligiously opened the doors wide for the Blessing so that all the 7.7 billion people of the world would be able to participate in it. Father even proclaimed the cosmic universalization of the Blessing, thereby allowing spirits in spirit world to also participate in the Blessing; he expanded the Blessing providence even more so that people could participate within the realm of the grace of the Blessing depending on a person’s stage in the cycle of life, whether it be in a rebirth ceremony (in the womb, newborn), or a resurrection ceremony (adolescence), or an eternal life ceremony (elderly age). The Heavenly Parents Church has no providential justification. So, I considered why Mother is trying to create this church from another perspective. Could it be that it’s because in Mother’s mind the only thing that exists are the True Parents, and there is no concept of the True Family? I have frequently heard Mother’s speeches and it has been a long time since I heard her say the word “True Family”. She only emphasizes submission and obedience to Parents. But, one time Hyun Jin Nim said something that is in contrast with Mother. At the 50th True God’s Day anniversary Hyun Jin Nim said, “There can be no True Parents if there are no True Children.” At the celebration of True Father’s 100th birthday, Hyun Jin Nim said that True Father’s greatest achievement was establishing the True Family on earth, and that the most important providential institution in God’s providence is True Family. He said that the Blessing does not come from any church, but that it comes from the True Family. Both the Family Federation and the Family Peace Association live by the motto that a peaceful ideal world can be realized and all of humanity can live with God as the Parent of humankind by establishing an ideal family of God, that is a God-centered family. Without creating the basis for the Three Great Kingships and the Four Great Realms of Heart centered on the True Family, God cannot dwell at the center of that family as the Parent. By ignoring the basic notions of the Principle of Creation and demanding that we only worship True Parents, Mother herself is tearing down the foundation of the True Children who should be able to reach the position of True Parents. Isn’t that what her claims mean? If Mother truly desired to embrace the 7.7 billion people of the world, instead of isolating herself by creating the Heavenly Parents Church, she should return to the path of establishing a True Family where God would want to visit and dwell in. If Mother returns to the position of God’s true daughter, Father’s true wife, Children’s true mother, then all humanity and the entire spirit world will serve and love Mother as the True Mother. Concluding remarks – The key that opens the door to Heaven, the Three Great Kingships and the Four Position Foundation in the True Family, the Vertical Axial Line Beloved Blessed families, brothers and sisters, Humanity was born with original sin and, as if by fate, we cannot alone remove ourselves from Satan’s false love, false life, and false lineage. As such, humanity can only become part of God’s family by engrafting onto the Tree of Life which is the Three Great Kingships and the Four Position Foundation of the True Family. When Mother gave birth to Ye Jin Nim, True Father told Blessed families, “Through the very small condition of participating in Mother’s labor pains, Blessed families go back into the position of being in the womb and are as if reborn as twins with the True Children.” And that is why Blessed families have the tradition to attend and call the True Children as our elder brothers and sisters, regardless of age. For the last 10 years or so, the relationship between Blessed families and the “original lineage” of True Family and True Children—which are the root of God’s true life, true love, and true lineage—has been disconnected by the words and actions of so-called “church leaders” surrounding Mother. I heard that instead of “succession by lineage,” they are calling it “succession by an institutionalized church system”. Although Blessed families had the special privilege of receiving True Father’s grace through the Family Pledge to be “Owners of Cheon Il Guk”, “to represent and become central to heaven and earth”, “to become a family that moves heavenly fortune”, and to be “a family that conveys Heaven's blessing to our community”, we must not forget the 7th verse of the Family Pledge which establishes the prerequisite of being a family that connects with the “original lineage”. There is no doubt that the “original lineage” refers to the vertical axial line of the Three Great Kingships and Four Position Foundation of the True Family, which is the Tree of Life. On August 13, 2012, True Father offered his “final report” to God putting all of his jungsung and soul and body. In this report True Father earnestly and desperately asked that all Blessed families attend the True Family’s True Children at the center and fulfill their duties as tribal messiahs, so that the substantial Cheon Il Guk could be offered up to God. But our Blessed families and members are forgetting True Father’s “final report”. The last providential event True Father participated while on earth was titled the “Proclamation of the Word of the True Body through the Cosmic Assembly for the Firm Settlement of the True Parents of Heaven, Earth and Humankind.” In the last part of True Father’s public speech in this event he said that the Eight Great Textbooks are gifts that he is giving to humanity, and they are his will (as in, final wish before passing away). True Father asked us to continue forward centered on these words until Cheon Il Guk is established. Among the Eight Great Textbooks, three of them are especially designated as sacred texts; these are the “Cheon Seong Gyeong, Peace Messages, and the Family Pledge”. Father gave a clear and dire warning that, “These three volumes are sacred texts and they are Heaven’s constitution; therefore, you should not change even one letter.” Yet, despite Father’s strong words, Mother and those leaders surrounding her were hatching a plan to dismantle and change the content of the Eight Great Textbooks as True Father was lying on his deathbed before passing onto spirit world. The result of that scheme is Mother’s so-called “Cheon Il Guk scriptures” which includes Mother’s version of the “Cheon Seong Gyeong, Peace Messages, and Chambumo Gyeong”. Even after witnessing what Mother and leaders had done, the Blessed families and members stood by idly, keeping their mouths shut. But I heard that in the upcoming 60th Anniversary of True Parents Holy Wedding, Mother and leaders are going to publish a new version of the “Chambumo Gyeong” that contains additional unprincipled and counter-providential content proclaiming the “only begotten daughter,” among other claims. Are we just going to stand by and look the other way, even as they continuously dismantle, damage, and doctor the words of the Eight Great Textbooks? True Father left all the tangible and intangible providential foundation, along with the title of “Owner of Cheon Il Guk”, for Blessed families to inherit. The ownership of the Eight Great Textbooks belongs to no one other than the “Owners of Cheon Il Guk,” that is, you, the Blessed families. These Texts are God and True Father’s “final gift and will” that he is giving to Blessed families and to humanity. For how much longer will we, Blessed Families, be relinquishing our responsibility and right as owners? Mother and the “church” leaders have been destroying and selling away the providential foundation and holy grounds established by True Father. What kind of place was the Su-Taek-Ri Central Training Center? It’s the very place where the providence for the International Victory Over Communism started, as well as being the main place where matchings for Blessings took place. It was also the birth place of providential and Principle education that would lead to world peace and new life. They sold that place and put up apartments there. Mother and these leaders have changed the names of all the main providential institutions that True Father founded while he was alive, adding the words “HJ, Hyo-jeong, Magnolia” to them. Are there Blessed family members that are still unaware those words and letters are the English initials of Mother’s name? They are the symbolic representation of Mother, Hak Ja Han. Now, they have changed the name of the “Family Federation” to “Heavenly Parents Church”. The Family Federation was supposed to be a providential organization that would substantially realize Cheon Il Guk on earth during the Completed Testament Age. But instead, this has been changed to the “Heavenly Parents Church”; a name which seems to come right from the Old or New Testament during the age of the providence of restoration through indemnity. Mother and the “church” leaders surrounding her are now advancing their new “Heavenly Parents Church” with content that is female-centric, only-begotten-daughter-centric, and radically feminist. Even as they live in the “Completed Testament Age” where they should be substantiating the original ideal of creation, they are going in the opposite direction. Through their actions they are dragging parts of the Unification Movement and Blessed families back to the era of the Old and New Testaments—an era in which we need salvation from Satan and from sins. By doing so they have put Blessed families back in a position as if they had fallen again. Blessed families, brothers and sisters! We are now at a crossroads where we must make a final decision and determination. Will it be True Father, or the only begotten daughter? Is it God’s true love, true life, and true lineage, or is it Satan’s false love, false life, and false lineage? Is it the Principle, or is it unprincipled? Is it the path of the providence or is it counter-providential? Will you choose life or will you choose death? Will you be an owner of Cheon Il Guk, or will you be a fallen servant? We no longer have the leisure to hesitate. Blessed families, brothers and sisters, I conclude this letter hoping that God and True Father will be happy by the choice you make.

April 22, 2020 Chung Hwan Kwak

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shorilicious · 7 years ago

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⭐️Sexy Zone Happy New Year special 2017⭐️

佐藤勝利

1) Looking back on 2017: Rather than this being an expressive year, it was a year which gave me a lot of input as I was able to look at various works. Since it was our fifth anniversary since debut, our concert tour was also a summary of the past five years. Because it appeared like „this is all of Sexy Zone“, it felt like the hurdles until now were even higher. Feeling like a festival, our concerts became packed with so many various things. Our fans’ reactions were good as well as our reputation but it had also raised the hurdles for our next concert already... (laughing). However, it will become boring if we don’t raise it so please look forward to next year! 2) A theme displayed in 2018: Until now we were told we are „a group without growth“ but on the contrary, since we didn’t have any growth, I think there were many parts that we were allowed doing because of that... Because we’ve been doing this for over five years already, from now on we have to present results. I would like more people to listen to our music and I hope the scale of our concert tour will become bigger too. 3) How you like spending your New Year’s Day: I liked doing this a long time ago, but I would go to a shrine with my family when the date changes to New Year and we would eat New Year’s soba that is distributed outside. I like eating hot soba while feeling the sharpness of a cold winter night.

菊池風磨

1) Looking back on 2017: This year was really fulfilling in terms of work and my private life. For example in terms of work, I had two goals this year. One was to be able to star in a drama. The other one was to have our own tv show as five members. I’m very happy that I was able to be in a drama but because we didn’t get our own show, I will still carry that wish on to the next year. Well, being given a tv show isn’t really a goal so I want to talk a lot with the members to urge them on to study so we can appear in more variety shows. In private I was going out a lot with my family, I was able to see my little brother’s and sister’s face when they participated in a school event and there were many times I was able to spend time with my friends so my year was quite fulfilling. 2) How you like spending your New Year’s Day: Every year I go to a local shrine in my area. I have to get a fortune slip! From the year on that I entered Johnny’s until I debuted I had excellent luck every year. After debuting, for some reason I only had slightly good luck and future good luck (laughing). I carry it in my wallet so when forgetting about it, I can look at it again and embrace it. 3) A theme I want to display in 2018: Next year will be the start of a new chapter. Sexy Zone will have their sixth year as well as elementary school kids who are in sixth grade, so it’s the year to graduate. While leaving a place we have all cherished, I want to show you our progress as well. What that is going to be, I want to specifically discuss that with everyone. I think 2018 will be the beginning of a new chapter!

中島健人

1) Looking back on 2017: This year I was able to star in the movies „Kokoro ga sakebitagatterunda“ and „Miseinen dakedo kodomo janai“. Both have really long titles (laughing). Also both were wonderful works, I wonder if I could make a breakthrough as an actor. But I have to work harder. I think somehow I have to reach my limits to be able to go to the next stage. I want to aim for my utmost limits next year. Creating my solo concerts „Mission:K“ while advertising my movie at the same time was difficult but when I received so much dynamism as a response from my fans, it felt irresistible. It is truly a precious memory. 2) How you like spending your New Year’s Day: I love the atmosphere around the New Year’s holidays. I also like the atmosphere on Kohaku and Johnny’s countdown. For the countdown, in the beginning I used to be all by myself but this year even Matsushima will be able to appear. Marius cannot appear yet but next year I would like to enjoy the scenery of Tokyo Dome together as five. However, at 3AM when the New Year has passed, I feel really lonely in my car returning home from Tokyo dome (laughing). 3) A message for a Sexy Girl who spends her Christmas alone: You’re spending Christmas by yourself? That person is not a Sexy Girl. Goodbye... When did I say you were alone? Since I’ll always be there♡

松島聡

1) Looking back on 2017: First of all, it’s been a stable year for us as a group. Each one of us had a job and while we were working individually we were able to create our concerts together. The time we spent together as five was long and we were able to motivate and bring out a lot of good points about each other. But personally I am really impatient with myself. Because I turned 20 years old this year, I wonder where I’m going to stand in the future, I wonder how I’m going to express myself. I wonder if now is the time to think about that. In my 20’s I think I want to accept myself as I am, so I wish to become a shining person without having to adorn myself. 2) Something I spent a lot of time on this year during my private time: I think fashion. I had a lot of conversations with people from the fashion industry and I often went shopping. Rather than chasing after a trend, I want to wear clothes that are not trendy at all and that I personally like. Something pop-like with pink and yellow colours, this is how I want to attack the fashion world. Recently I bought many outerwear since I didn’t have any at all! Later I also bought some decorative plants for my house, they’re really soothing. I have three that are big and one small mimosa pudica, it’s the cutest! 3) How you like spending your New Year’s Day: I wish I could spend a relaxing time with my whole family~ I also want to go to Kyoto but drinking a toast with my family at home is great too. After that I go to a shrine with my family every year.

マリウス葉

1) Looking back on 2017: I think I have studied a lot. From the role of an idol though I wonder how much I was able to influence people around me. During summer holidays I participated in an overseas summit with students from various countries and for the first time I was asked „Why are you doing your studies and entertainment activities at the same time?“ by everyone at the summit. I haven’t thought about that before but because I’m able to influence many people I try to study hard, since I think it’s my duty to work hard as well. If I look at myself again, I have to say I noticed various things this year. Next year I wish I could get my favourite acting job. 2) A member I could fool around with lately: Kento-kun has a really delicate zone on himself. On the back of his neck and right by the side of his ears, he’s really ticklish there. I always touch him there and when you breathe on his skin, you’ll get an overreaction (laughing). It’s fun watching it, every time we meet up I touch him there once. 3) How you like spending your New Year’s Day: Since my older sister and my older brother are back in Tokyo after a long time, I want to travel somewhere with my family! Every year we gather at my grandma’s place in Kobe, no matter where in the world everyone is. We are around 20-30 people and eat osechi and have a nabe party. It’s really fun so I hope I can go again this year.

To which animal of the Chinese zodiac would you compare the members to?

(t/n: there are twelve animal signs in the Chinese zodiac: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig)

Shori: Nakajima Kento is a horse! Kenty is a prince so he’s going to be a prince on a white horse. That’s why...eh? Well, a white horse is a symbol of the dream world, meaning that everyone is longing for it. Fuma-kun is a pig. Because he will go straight for what he wants. To be honest, the way he communicates about his feelings is pig-like. Matsushima is a little smaller than me so he’s a rat (laughing). Marius is a dragon. Since his real name has the kanji for „dragon“ in it, he always says „It’s because I was born in the year of the dragon“, I heard it 200 million times already.

Kento: Kikuchi is a bird. When he’s interested in something he flies towards it in a straight line. Also every time he comes up with a new hairstyle it’s like he’s hatching a new egg. Shori is a tiger. Because he’s a fast runner and it feels like he has a secret passion. Marius is a dragon. Since it’s included in his name and it feels like he’s dancing in the sky when he’s traveling the world. Matsushima is a cow. Like a cow he is soft and comfortable. It’s nice to feel his kindness. I’m a horse. Because a horse matches with everyone!

Fuma: Shori is a pheasant! Wait, the pheasant is from Momotarou (t/n: a Japanese folk-tale) (laughing). Because he owns a bird pet he should be a bird. Nakajima is like a rat but in a good way. He looks like a small animal. A rat with a character that is loved by everyone. Matsushima is a monkey. This is me completely judging him by his outward appearance (laughing). I’m not insulting him since he said that himself. Marius is a dragon. Since it’s in his name. I’m a pig I guess. Maybe I have some headlong sides about me too.

Sou: Isn’t Shori a tiger? Since he’s manly, courageous and has mental strength. Kento-kun is a cow. Because he’s kind and like a cow’s milk he’s loved by everyone. Fuma-kun is a rabbit. He’s always in a bright mood and in high spirits. But being a cute little rabbit, in truth it creates a nice gap in contrast to his manliness. Marius is a dragon because it’s in his name. I’m always making jokes so I’m a monkey (laughing).

Marius: Because I’m born in the year of the dragon I am a dragon! I wonder if Sou-chan is a dog. He’s cute and cheerful, he always goes „woof woof“ and keeps on trying. He’s attached to people. Kenty is like a horse. Because horses have the image of a prince. Fuma-kun is an ox. He has horns and is brawny, I’m actually imagining him in a Spanish bullfight (laughing). Shori is a pig. He’s fierce and likely to fight. He will fight everyone, even the horse and the ox, for my sake (laughing).

Keep in mind I am not a native speaker therefore there might be mistakes in my translations. Also I’m not exactly translating word for word. Feel free to correct me in my ask box any time you want, I’d appreciate it! I apologize if someone already translated something before me and I didn’t notice, I hope you don’t mind.

Credit goes to -KencouSel @ Weibo for the scans, thank you!

#translation #sexy zone #nakajima kento #kikuchi fuma #sato shori #matsushima sou #marius yo #happy new year!#翻訳 #セクゾ #中島健人 #菊池風磨 #佐藤勝利 #松島聡 #マリウス葉 #あけおめ！

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dalitinvivo · 5 years ago

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motivation... enjoyment... confidence...

I wonder how many people might agree with me when I say, sometimes I am most motivated when I have accomplished something I really didn’t initially enjoy. But I felt accomplished, and the accomplishment led to a boost of confidence and I was excited for the next task. It must be, though, that the bigger ultimate goal of the accomplishment is something “good�� or something you would be proud of or feel honored or even just comforted. Even when it is something as simple as washing the dishes. Man, I love cooking, but it is like never ending, there is always so much to wash. And, washing the dishes sucks. Especially, in the winter! My hands are so chapped!! BUT, I like it when all is left nice and tidy and clean. I like it when there aren’t bugs or pests creeping around. So... do I enjoy washing the dishes? No. But do I like a clean kitchen? yes... Do I make sure I leave it the way I like it? Every time. At what point though, once you have earned enough money in life, do you hire a cleaning lady? How does this impact your motivation on daily tasks such as washing the dishes? Does it allow you the extra time to revert your focus? Do you get more tasks completed? What then keeps you going? Knowing that you need to earn a living to be able to pay the cleaning lady, that allows you the time to focus on that earning you are living. A cycle beyond cycles...

I suppose that knowing what keeps you active and doing things and accomplishing goals or tasks is very personal. Everyone probably has their own threshold, their own sense of satisfaction or thrill. For example, I ran a half marathon once. I guess in a way I can call myself a runner. And I like to run. But, I am not fast. And my joints can’t handle it as much as the typical runner. I wanted to run a half. It all kind of started after I had run a 10 miler and I felt like I could probably do it if I train properly. I trained all by myself, all summer, following some basic plan I found online. And I did it! My last long run before the race was during a girls weekend in Napa. That didn’t stop me. I had a plan and I was sticking to it! I ran 12 miles around Napa, lol. Even with shinsplints. Done and done. It was exhilarating. But, ask me if I ever want to run a full marathon and I will laugh in your face. It was great, but it was so time-consuming. I was hungry all the time, and well I had shinsplints and bad hips. But besides all that, I had the thought in me that I didn’t need to run a marathon to prove anything to myself or anyone else. I already had proved it to myself. I had the discipline. I fought through it. And I really enjoyed every second of it. My morning runs, my time for myself. Even while icing my shins, I would think, damn I’m a rockstar. But, there is a thin line between enjoyment and distress, haha. All in all, I had accomplished my goal. My goal was to know could I train and do it? Yes, I could. It was never about the distance, but about the completion.

The same thing has kinda reflected in my career path, recently. Not to say I will ever want to run a marathon, I really have no desire. But, will I want to be a tenure-track independent investigator one day? That one is still on the fence, mostly because I haven’t found my confidence. I haven’t completed certain goals requisite in my postdoc to prove to myself that I am capable. I’m still in my half-marathon training baby steps. It has taken me longer, and I’m currently on a non-traditional path, but fortunately I think I dodged the shinsplints, and am doing what I love. When I get to the point that I know whether I am capable, and when I have decided to focus on a niche independent of any of my mentors, bosses or superiors, I am sure I will receive the support, and I will know if it is truly something I desire, and in that I will find the motivation. But, right now, getting each task done towards that goal is what I enjoy. Fortunately, I am finally enjoying the process, again. My half-marathon training was a confidence booster, but it was during a time in my career as a postdoc that was a distraction and a deviation. I wasn’t feeling capable in my career, so I sought out a different outlet. I guess, the end-all purpose of my job is what kept me going. And, my love of science and research. But, when you feel like your everyday is going no where, even if you love the endpoint or the big picture, and you don’t enjoy the process, then you shouldn’t be doing it... you should be hiring a cleaning lady, and refocusing your attention on what you enjoy, that motivates you and boosts your daily confidence to accomplish the goals... and the upward cycle continues.

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be-a-nice · 7 years ago

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Introduction

Hello! I am Eunice! I’ve existed on this planet for a little more than 17 years. I decided to make a studyblr because two of my close friends have a studyblr (@biochemistryy (which I’m manually linking because Tumblr refuses to acknowledge its existence?) and @symphonystudies ) and that seems fun!

Plus, I’ll be starting university this fall and it’ll be nice to start a blog at the same time as I start this new chapter of my life. I’m undeclared for now, but I intend on majoring in Computer Science. I hope to major in something else as well, although I don’t know what yet. I’m the worst at studying but I want to work really hard and be the best that I can be in college, so I hope that making a studyblr will help make me more productive!

This ended up being really long so… more after the break!

PERSONALITY:

I’m really relaxed, slow, and carefree but I’m also really timid and cannot operate under stress at all. I’m also kind of scared of people (and being judged–actually, I’m well aware that this introduction is super long and I’m having second thoughts about posting it so that maybe 1.5 people will see it and judge me on it. But `I spent way too much time on this so there’s no going back) and not very sociable but I’m working on that, so talk to me! I have the tendency to be vague (”Concerning this project… I have goals in mind. What goals? Well, to be specific… many”) and to exaggerate things (”The clock may have shown only a minute has passed, but I’ve literally been doing this for 10 years and I can feel myself dying already”).

I tend to dream big and would usually set my standard way higher than my current ability level or I just don’t have standards at all. For an example. I realize most people’s introductions are not as long as this or as self-obsessive as this, but I before I began, I had established the goal of having several subheadings in my introduction and a decent chunk of writing per subheading and I am not about to give up on that goal because of something as silly as “the reader will get bored.” My tendency to overshoot is not the best since I also have approximately zero energy ever and I’m super lazy so I never do anything if there are no repercussions to my inaction. I’m also terrible at finishing things and I usually have a ton of half-written stories or projects lying around, although this might be a byproduct of my inability to set and follow through on reasonable goals. I’m trying to do and finish more things, though. I’m making some progress. I mean, I have this studyblr now, right?

That quickly got kind of negative at the end, but in general, I love being myself. It’s great. I just tend to compare myself to people and feel inferior sometimes, but I bounce back in a day, at most.

FANDOMS:

I’m not really an intense kind of person and usually, I fall in love with something for a couple of days or hours and then move on from that honeymoon phase so I don’t actually belong to any fandom.

MOTIVATIONS:

It sounds way lame, but my extrinsic motivations to do things are usually one of the following:

+ I can listen to music more

+ I’m expected to do this

+ People will think I’m cool

+ People will dislike me if I don’t

+ People will like me if I do

+ I wanna make my friends/my family/whoever proud/surprised

+ I want this to exist but it doesn’t

MUSIC:

My favorite genre of music is musicals! Ahaha… That doesn’t really count because there is a wide range of genres in musicals. I’m not a super-fan with knowledge of some obscure musical or whatever, but I casually listen to a couple of popular ones, and I’m fine with that. Currently, I really like Be More Chill, In the Heights, Spring Awakening, and Evita. I really like musical cartoons like My Little Pony and Steven Universe. They’re just so cute and brightly colored! There might be more, but I can’t think of any right now. I wish there were more cartoons with a ton of songs. I like any music though–although I’m super partial towards music with vocals because I’m a choir person–and I would love getting music recommendations!

I vaguely know the theory behind guitar and piano. I never practice ever, though, so my ability level is embarrassingly low.

HOBBIES:

Since I was small, my response to the question “What do you like to do?” has been “write, draw, sing, read.” I don’t do them all in equal measure though. For an example, this year, I’ve hardly written or drawn for fun. I’m doing those more so far this summer, but it pales in comparison to when I was in that “phase.” My writing phase was mostly in late elementary school and then it happened again early high school. I was in my drawing phase in early elementary and the middle of high school. I had my singing phase late middle and high school and my reading phase was all of elementary school, early middle and high school, and late high school. I really like fantasy and supernatural kinds of stories. Or anything funny, I guess. I also like books about cognition and sleep. Basically, the functionings of the mind. Recently though, the only thing I’ll read are translated light novels about transmigration of a modern human to another fantasy world that’s usually an otome game or something. It’s so niche and cliche I could die of embarrassment. Luckily no one will read this except for maybe the two people I gave a shoutout to, so… Hello, friends! Please ignore me!

I’m absolutely terrible or at best, average, and all of those things, though, so that’s kind of sad. Although I can read pretty fast and stay focused for long periods of time while still retaining the information if I am actually interested in the text, though, so I’m kind of proud of that.

Other than those things I do all the time, varyingly, there are other things I picked up recently that I love and want to do more of. I really like sewing because the idea of making things is just so nice to me, programming because that’s amazing and I can do everything with is and that’s amazing I just need to actually figure out what I’m doing first, and probably other things, but they aren’t coming to mind right now.

LANGUAGES:

The only language I know is English but I want to know literally all the other languages that exist in the world. My top five, however, are:

1. Japanese - Most of the media I consume are natively in English or Japanese so it’ll be nice to learn Japanese so I don’t have to wait for forever for the translations. Plus, I’ve always wanted to learn since I first watched anime while I was an elementary school kid.

2. Mandarin - After English and Japanese, Mandarin makes up the greatest amount of media I consume (mostly light novels). Plus, it’s widely-spoken so it must be useful! Since it’s spoken in so many places, there are a ton of different accents and so native speakers are more forgiving if I mess up so I don’t need to worry that much about my accent! A lot of my friends speak Mandarin as their mother tongue or are fluent in it, and it’ll be nice to connect with them in this way.

3. Cantonese - My parents came from Hong Kong and speak Cantonese as natives. I really want to get in touch with my roots and learn it too! Plus, a lot of my family and some of my friends speak it natively and I want to be able to connect with them in their native language.

4. Spanish - Spanish is also really popular and musicals like Evita and In the Heights make me want to learn Spanish. Besides, I live in California and California has a sizable Spanish-speaking population. One of my best friends speaks Spanish natively and it’s so cool and I want to talk to her in Spanish too! Plus, it is from the same family as English so it won’t be as hard as learning something completely different like Hindi or something… ?

5. Korean - A lot of my friends are excited about K-pop and want to learn Korean and I want to learn Korean with them and be a part of that experience. But really, the main reason why I first wanted to learn Korean was because the spelling is very logical and I thought “eh, why not?” I couldn’t remember the Hangul at all though, so I dropped it by the day’s end, hahaha. But I went to Korea recently and I love the clothes and things and the people seem really nice and I want to be able to make a friend in Korea and maybe didn’t even know English because that would be different! And cool!

MISC. FAVORITES:

I love cats! I’m allergic, but that doesn’t stop my love for cats! Dogs are cute too and birds are way up there too, but cats have purr-loined my heart! I really like puns too. I think they’re cute and clever and people who can make constant puns and turn of phrases are amazing. My favorite characters are the energetic, excited child (or child-like) characters such as Seven from Mystic Messenger or Wheatley from Portal 2. I also really like Heathcliff from Wuthering Heights and Erik from Phantom of the Opera though, so that’s not a hard and fast rule. Although… I like writing dark and moody characters as well as childish and excited characters, especially them being best friends and acting as each other’s foils, so that’s probably where my character preferences come from. I love pastels and I love clothes and I love pastel clothes! I’m terrible with fashion though and I’ve been wearing yoga pants and a jacket basically all my life. It recently changed to leggings, a t-shirt, and an outerwear, and I’ve been trying to dress more nicely recently, but all in all, I’m still pretty hobo-like in appearance. I like anime although I haven’t really been reading or watching anything in particular. I just like anime in general and it really reflects in everything I do, whoops. I’m kind of embarrassed by that though.

GOALS:

(For this summer)

+ Be more sociable

+ Be more cheerful, excited about life

+ Actually stick with things and don’t drop them in three seconds

+ Set goals better

+ Accomplish something measurable by the summer’s end

Welp, it’s 1:11 AM here in Canada so I should sleep.

#170618 #studyblr #studyblr introduction #summer goals

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curiousfancy · 8 years ago

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Eco-Ikat

Wearing ♥ Tailored Dress ♥ Old ASOS top ♥ Vintage crossbody bag ♥ Bonjour Store leather sandals ♥ Salvaged pin

It’s been a month since I’ve posted an outfit, would you believe that! Spring has turned to summer in that time, and only the mornings are pleasant now. For summer ‘17, my primary style goal is to make the shift towards ethical, mindful, slow fashion. Coming from the scarcity mindset that the lack of options in plus sizes inevitably steers you towards, I always felt that ethical fashion sounded wonderful in theory but would be impossible to implement. And yes, I’d probably want to make the occasional purchase on ASOS (for example) but for the foreseeable future, I’m taking advantage of India’s dressmaking culture and getting everything I can tailored.

I went back to tailoring last winter after months of encouragement from Ushshi, for which I’ll be forever grateful because tailoring has fundamentally altered the baseline of how much I can do with clothing. I admit my motivations are rooted in selfishness - more than anything I’m dreaming of finally designing my dream wardrobe - at the same, given my current lifestyle, mindfulness feels natural to who I am. When I’m not working on blog-related stuff, I spend most of my time cooking, gardening, reading, and making things. It would be strange to not at least try to be mindful about the clothes I wear, considering how important they are to me.

Here’s what I’m planning to do this summer (and afterwards!) when it comes to my wardrobe

Shop locally and support local artisans.

Support independent makers with my wallet instead of big brands.

Recycle clothing in my wardrobe, which is to say wear stuff I’ve hardly ever worn instead of buying more. I’m especially guilty of this one because I tend to stick to just 5 or 6 pieces at any given time and then keep on replacing them with new ones.

Shop sustainably whenever possible, like vintage or second hand pieces instead of new. This is actually something I’ve been doing since I first started shopping online (I think about…15 years ago?) Some of my all time favourite pieces are second hand scores off eBay like my Brit Stitch satchel and Anthropologie jacket. Buying second hand clothing might not sound as glamorous as buying, say…organic, fairtrade clothing, but it’s a cheap, easy and useful thing you can do towards building a sustainable wardrobe. Whenever I buy second hand or vintage clothing online, it’s almost always from eBay (or Etsy) UK so I can get it delivered to my fiance and he can bring everything over in one go when he comes over. I would feel pretty awful flying over clothes one at a time halfway around the world even if I could afford to.

Invest more in quality pieces I can wear over and over again, now that I have a core wardrobe to see me through.

There’s also the fact that I can afford to do this now. There haven’t been a lot of times in the past 5 years that I could. Not to mention the question of access to a good tailor and the time needed to go fabric shopping and basically getting whatever I want to wear designed from scratch. Sometimes it takes a fitting session after the clothes are made to ensure that they sit well on my body. It’s time consuming and more expensive than buying the cheapest stuff on sale online and taking advantage of free shipping. It’s only recently that I’ve been able to afford both the budget and the leisure to do so.

The outfit

I’m so obsessed with smock dresses I rarely wear any other kind these days! This is one of the two midi smocks I’ve gotten tailored recently. Ikat is such a springy and fresh look, and a pattern I’ve always loved. If you’re looking for similar styles in natural fabrics, there might not be a lot of options in retail but Etsy is one place where you’ll find dresses in a similar aesthetic. Sondeflor Shop and OffOn Clothing, both on Etsy, have many bohemian smock styles in custom sizes.

My shoes are also from Etsy, and I’ve gotten quite a few questions about them on Instagram! They’re from a shop called Bonjour Store, who are actually based in Jaipur. Having worn similar pairs in my childhood, I was expecting them to be the hard leather kind that you need to break in. I was pleasantly surprised when these sandals turned out to be really, really soft with padded insoles. I love how they look like clogs but feel so different on my feet. I also got a pair of strappy sandals from Bonjour Store that I’ll planning to style next, and I’m thinking of stocking up on some more styles from them over the summer!

My top is from ASOS, way back in 2011. I’ve styled it more than once on the blog and worn it many more times than that, so it exceeded #30wears a long time ago. The vintage purse has been on everyday rotation in my wardrobe since I got it. The pear pin that isn’t quite visible in photos is still a pretty little addition IRL and is salvaged from a dress I bought in 2007. I’ve linked to similar products on the widget below so you can re-create this look for yourself if you like!

All photos by Taha and Lokesh at Shutter Diaries.

Follow me IG | Twitter | FB | Pinterest

#ootd #spring #sandals #ikat #orange #bespoke tailoring #asos #vintage #summer #bangalore #the bob #dress #pinafore #flats #clogs #peter pan collar #buttondown

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dreamy-stars · 5 years ago

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1/1/20

holy shit i haven’t spilled any thoughts in so long! i’ve changed so much! and i’m happier now. it’s a new decade! i have so much to say

2019 was a great year as i actually did things that would have made me uncomfortable. spring semester of 2019 was a shitshow i think i dropped a class and only took three. dropped diff eq with the bald guy and i remember sitting in class no thoughts head empty and trying not to cry. and then going to some tables on campus and calling mom and bawling and apologizing. somehow i got through the semester after crying over tests and assignments. OH i started lifting weights and working out and i love it. i love being strong. being healthy is something i’ve always wanted to work towards and the women on weights program was so enjoyable. i was trying to get rly toned to look good for the nct concert actually. unfortunately i haven’t worked out much since it ended :( hoping to get back into the gym once the semester starts again. i wanna be RIPPED for summer 2020 >:)

working at sweet hut was a great experience as i was able to learn more about myself and add to my resume! i actually learn pretty fast and even though i messed up a handful of times i just want to give myself some credit hehe. i liked making new friends there, as well as bonding with my cousin more. before, i would be a bit afraid of the long silences, but now we talk about whatever and never shut up <3 working a customer service job made me appreciate the fact that i am still working towards a degree. i don’t think i could do that for an extended period. my feet hurt every day and my hands were so dry and getting blisters like crazy. ofc night shift is crazy but i loved getting tons of tips each night. We Live In A Society. i think i became more confident in small talk? idk being on the register made me better but i didn’t even do it much. i also value customer service and tipping much more i always try to tip when i can. anyway i miss making drinks and burning the sugar on the creme brule.

after working i became more motivated to work hard in fall semester. for this semester i picked two classes to be on the other campus so i could see if i could actually talk to ppl. it wasn’t that much of a change but ppl are much more open to talking in the first week i guess. i’m gonna miss that. joining vsa was the best decision this year i think. it took some courage to talk to ppl first but working at SH helped me ton. because of that i made friends outside of class isn’t that wild? too bad it’s on the other campus bc i would go more often. i think my schedule might not work with vsa next semester idk :/ i went to my first College Party this year which was so much fun! i was nervous bc i only knew like three ppl but just mingle-ing is fun when ur buzzed. i think my tolerance is pretty high idk how many shots i took :| anyway hanging out with new friends i made makes me happy. definitely a highlight of this year! also school went better than before!!! my grades are not the best but i know i put in work so i think it’s okay. also i need to stop relying on chegg so much LMAO...commuting was harsh on me and took up SOOO much time. i only skipped class a couple times (mainly bc i was sick) so i’m proud. didn’t take classes on other campus this semester bc i’m lazy and would rather spend time studying in the library nearby.

love life is sad still. chemistry is SO important. i think through text is just as important as irl. i went on a date with this guy that was a boring and unfunny texter and was like lemme give it a shot maybe its diff irl. it was alright but so....boring like no flirting like.... also he was younger and i hate younger guys...feeling like a hag... anyway this semester im hoping to go on a date with a girl instead. i thought i had a crush on oomf but it was like for a week. idk if it would ever happen but i rly like his personality and humor. 2020 pls let me have a lover im bored lemme emotionally depend on someone

stanning bts is getting so hard tbh. i can barely keep up with content from LAST YEAR. so much happens. i only go on ig like twice a day and i go to like ten ppl’s twt i dont even scroll down the tl bc it overwhelms me LOL. just looking at bts overwhelms me like i feel anxious sometimes? bc i’m missing out on stuff...idk how to explain it but i think the mama speech from 2018 made me...humble? less focused? on them? like i don’t wanna be so attached and when the day comes that they d*sband i lose my mind. bc i was so devastated that day. kinda made me chill out. being busy with school and work also made it hard to focus on them. guess i really am growing up..but also i became so obsessed with nct i love the nct daily channel LMAO feels like i’m cheating but their content is easy to digest and i don’t get so emotionally invested i guess. when i watch bts i sit there and FOCUS and give them my full attention. nct is for after hw and just to chill. do i make sense? but as i’m on break and watching bts performances and run episodes, i realize how much i missed watching them. i love them so much still and always will! sometimes it shocks me how huge they are. like you can’t compare them to anyone now. they are the highest achieving group i think. PERIODT fjlajajhka thinking back to when they were smaller and i told myself i would support them no matter what and i didn’t care if they didn’t get big like i genuinely loved them and now they are loved worldwide like....my babies.....<3 uwu...it’s crazy how much they’ve achieved in 6 years. i’m so happy for them.

also shinee’s whole discography is on spotify now! i was listening to it the other day and CRYING like a baby. i miss jjong so much especially his voice. i remember being 11/12 and spending hours watching the shows they were on i really miss stanning them. their music brings back so many feelings. ugh so good.

my mental health has been pretty good this year i didn’t cry much and the source of my stress and sadness is always school. fall semester was pretty good. i learned recently that i get jealous over ppl only a little though. it just passes by in thought but i don’t voice it to anyone bc it’s stupid LMAO. i don’t think the jealousy is that bad just minor.

2019 was a great year. i never really noticed the changes and growth i experienced but it was really apparent this year and i’m glad i am evolving :) my goal for this year is to get fit and be more comfortable in the gym, gain experience in my field through joining clubs, and be even more social (also be better at driving hehe) i’m very thankful for those around me and i hope to be closer to friends in 2020. looking forward to going to vn in the summer!

let’s have a great 2020 jen! ♡

#diary

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lindafrancois · 5 years ago

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How Aylette Overcame Injuries, Grew Strong, and Started Winning Gold Medals

“See! Even runners should be strength training!”

I couldn’t help but think this when speaking to Aylette. Now granted, I’ve been on the record countless times promoting Team Strength Training.

However, Aylette is living proof of the benefit of growing strong. There was a time when Aylette would constantly hurt herself while running, where “anything I was doing was leading to injuries and I felt frustrated and really sad about it.”

I know how Aylette feels.

Getting hurt sucks, and it’s depressing to have to take a break from the exercise you love because your body just can’t take it anymore.

It was during such a recovery period that Aylette decided to get more focused instruction. She hoped to find a out of her “train, get injured, recover, repeat” cycle that she was trapped in.

Aylette is a long time Nerd Fitness reader, past Camp NF attendee, and even came to my book tour stop back in 2016!

I’m very honored she has been able to find tremendous success as part of our 1-on-1 Online Coaching Program – her coach Staci worked hard to build a strength training routine to help Aylette become “antifragile.”

She has been with the program for the past 18 months and these days Aylette is back to running and crushing it.

She just ran a half marathon in less than two hours.

Right before that, she came in 1st place for her division in a sprint triathlon.

The best part? No injuries to speak of.

But you don’t need to hear all about this from me. Let’s bring in Aylette!

HOW AYLETTE GREW STRONG, EARNED GOLD MEDALS, AND LEVELLED UP HER LIFE

STEVE: Hey Aylette! Thanks so much for taking the time to do this interview with us – it’s great to chat with you again!

What I think is great about your story is how you overcame a pattern of injuries by deliberately deciding to grow stronger. Can you tell us a little about that?

AYLETTE: I’ve always loved working out. For a while, I bounced between going to my local CrossFit gym and running on the weekends.

But I kept getting injured.

It seems like I’d hurt myself one way or another, recover, get back to it…then I’d get hurt again.

This happened over and over and over.

I was losing motivation on what workouts to do. I kept getting injured and was feeling stressed out that I couldn’t do the things I wanted to do.

STEVE: Yikes! Yeah, getting hurt is never fun. I’ve had to slow down my training in the past to deal injuries too, so I know how disheartening it can be.

What made you pull the trigger on NF Coaching?

AYLETTE: I had recently injured myself running (again, ugh) and was also starting to feel pain in my elbow, making CrossFit difficult.

I was really bummed about having to take a break from running and I was on the verge of just quitting CrossFit. When I saw the coaching opportunity announced, I jumped on it.

I love to work out – at that moment I just wanted someone to tell me what to do. I felt like anything I was doing was leading me to injuries and I felt frustrated and really sad about it. It’s just not like me to flounder.

I wanted to set goals and achieve them.

I’ve always liked signing up for a race then training to beat my time. Or training to hit a new weightlifting PR (personal record). These random injuries prevented me from doing so and I didn’t know what to do anymore.

STEVE: I’m honored you decided to reach out to us for help. You’ve been working with Staci, our Head Female Trainer, and an overall badass powerlifter.

What did your recovery process look like?

AYLETTE: Well I had taken a year off of running to deal with my injury.

However, instead of sitting around waiting to heal, Staci and I created a plan to start powerlifting.

Which is actually what my physical therapist advised I do. To develop muscle and strength to spur healing and also prevent injury in the future.

This was a big mindset shift for me.

My default position would have been to completely rest and assume I can’t do anything. Instead, Coach Staci looked at the recommendations from my physical therapist and created a workout for me.

For example, the sports doctor told me I needed to strengthen my gluteus medius and I mentioned that to Staci and she added that into my routine as well. This was super helpful. I personally feel this helped my recovery process.

STEVE: That’s amazing! It really is important to stay active in any way you can after an injury, plus growing strong is always a smart move. I’m glad you took the advice of your PT and created and executed a plan with Staci.

What was your workout strategy like? What did Staci have you start doing?

AYLETTE: Initially we started strength training at the gym down the street.

I liked using the barbells there for deadlifts and squats.

However, time management is an issue for me.

I was balancing dating, my dog, living alone, a full-time job, cooking, working out – all the things.

It was so hard. Staci gave me so many great tips that have helped majorly. I’m at a great place with balancing things and can stick to the workout schedule.

For example, Staci took inventory of my surroundings and advised I start working out from my building’s gym.

We decided getting dressed in a coat, boots, and then walking to the gym in the morning is a little too much. I live in Chicago, so you just can’t walk out the door unprepared. In the winter, you’ll freeze!

There is a gym in my building with dumbbells and basic machines and we’ve been using those for strength training. It sounds silly but I just never thought about utilizing the space. I just always preferred barbells.

But now I’ll do Bulgarian split squats, goblet squats, dumbbell Romanian deadlifts, dumbbell bench press, hip thrusts, lat pulldowns, all sorts of things. I never really used dumbbells this much before – now I have a new appreciation for them.

Even better, I don’t have to leave my building! I much prefer this compared to the extra 30 min to walk to and from the gym, get out of my winter gear, etc.

It’s so important to communicate with my coach – they seem to always have a solution!

STEVE: I hear ya! As someone who also has an online coach, I’ve also learned to over communicate so they can help you with the problems you don’t even realize you have.

Staci has shared with me that you are back to running, which is super awesome to hear! How’s it going hitting the pavement again?

AYLETTE: Yes! I am back to running.

When I started NF Coaching it was more about strength training and hitting PRs with deadlifts, squats, and the bench press.

Which was so much fun!

Then last summer (2018), I realized I missed triathlons and running and talked to Coach Staci about that. So we switched up my goals.

I actually joined a triathlon training group – CES (Chicago Endurance Sports) and met with them twice a week because I was also looking for the social aspect. It’s fun being around people with similar goals!

Staci made a plan around the days I met with them so I was able to do both NF Coaching and run/bike/swim with them twice a week!

I will admit I met someone towards the end of last year that also loves to race. Together we ended up signing up for a lot of races in 2019. It’s even more fun when you have someone to share these things with!

Here are some highlights of progression over the past year:

May 2017 – 3.5 mile race: 29:33 (8:26 min/mile). Right before I started coaching. Then the next day my hip/glutes were in so much pain and this was when I stopped running, quit CrossFit and joined NF Coaching.

Summer 2018 – My happy running pace was a 10:00 min/mile – sometimes I ran around a 9:30 pace.

November 2018 – 10K race: 56:35 (9:06 min/mile), but this was tough. Just the improvements I’ve made from November to today are unreal.

March 2019 – 8K race: 41:50 (8:25 min/mile). Huge difference from November after focusing more on running.

May 2019 – Same 3.5 mile race from 2017: 27:50 (7:57 min/mile!!). Not only that, I jumped right back into my workout routines because I feel so GREAT!

May 2019 Sprint Triathlon – 1:36 – I placed 1st in my division! I’ve done a few sprint triathlons but I’ve never felt this prepared for one!

June 2019 San Diego Half Marathon – 1:56:54!!! (8:56 min/mile). New PR. It was also filled with hills. I finished in the top 10% of females. Unbelievable!

Most importantly, what has kept me progressing is all the consistent strength training. It’s given me such an incredible baseline for running and all sports. The PRs I’m able to reach are amazing.

Best of all, I’ve been injury free!

I’m doing races and just need a few days to rest off some sore legs and I’m ready to go again. That’s it! So often I see runners feeling pain or injuring something (I’ve been there as well) and I’m so happy that all the work I did the past year has gotten me to where I am now.

I’m doing all this stuff and I feel so GREAT.

STEVE: That’s incredible Aylette! I’m so happy that you’re back to doing what you love. Even more importantly, you’re not hurting yourself while doing it.

Plus, it’s pretty sweet to come in 1st place during a race. Great work.

Alright, let’s switch gears a little here. Do you follow any kind of nutrition strategy? What are you eating to fuel your running?

Aylette: Nutrition is definitely still ongoing for me, but the main thing here is awareness. I’m much more aware of what I’m eating and how it affects me.

I need breakfast. If I don’t I’m not happy and I’ll eat worse throughout the day.

Staci gave me a simple idea of leaving yogurt, fruit, and granola at work. If I’m ever running behind in the morning, I can have that instead of eating the random snacks at the office which don’t fill me up and make me feel worse.

Sometimes I’ll count my calories out of curiosity of where I’m at. I like numbers and enjoy getting into the details of eating a certain amount of protein, etc. I did this more often when my goals were around powerlifting, but right now I just don’t feel like making the time for it.

However, I am more aware of how much protein I’m getting per meal because I know what a portion of 30g looks like.

I’ve learned now to aim for a good protein source with each meal, starting with breakfast. I’m also more conscious of portion sizes in general.

Staci gave me some great recipes that are quick, easy, and nutritious – quick is key for me because I’d rather not spend too much time cooking.

All of these little things have definitely added up! I didn’t fully realize I lost 10lbs until I noticed some summer dresses fit looser. I’ve been enjoying what I’m doing so much and just focusing on little things nutrition-wise that here I am. 🙂

STEVE: I’m proud of you Aylette. That’s exactly what we tell people here at Nerd Fitness: focus on the process and the results will come. If you do the reverse and focus on the results, you might get impatient and you forget about the process itself!

What’s a typical day for you like now? Workouts, diet strategy, and so on. Give us the details!

AYLETTE: I easily wake up every morning to work out. It’s a part of my routine like brushing my teeth.

I love starting my morning this way. Often I’ll wake up at 4:30-5:00 to get in my workouts, get ready for work, walk my dog, etc. After work, I’ll take my dog on a long walk and go to sleep early.

The difference now is that I’m more consistent with working out – I rest Monday mornings and “sleep in” until 6:00am at the latest.

The rest of the week I’m up early. Weekends I’ll still wake up fairly early too.

It feels great to get a good workout in at the start of the day, as it puts me in a great mood overall.

I’ve also learned to say no to more social activities or only do them when they don’t interfere too much with my training.

I’ve experimented a lot with workout times and workout days and what works best on what day. It’s all trial and error.

I’ve tried working out after leaving the job office and also late at night and neither of those strategies are for me. Monday mornings are the morning I’m most likely to skip a workout so that day has become my rest day.

All this took time to figure out. But it’s important to adjust to what works best for you.

I eat Greek yogurt with fruit or granola for breakfast or protein pancakes. Lately, I’m all about these protein pancakes after a good workout.

Lunch and dinner vary: it’s usually based around chicken or salmon (because I like both):

Salmon, veggies, potatoes

Chicken, rice, veggies

Salad with chicken or salmon

Because of all the cardio I’m doing I’ve also been eating pasta as well – but I make sure to keep the portions under control.

I’m more aware of what I need. I need carbs – I do a lot of cardio. Also, protein. I really try to get in a good amount of protein each meal.

Still, there’s lots to work on – I love pizza 🙂 But I’m not stressing about it when I eat it or other things.

STEVE: Good for you Aylette. I too love pizza, and like you, I’m so diligent most the time that I eat it guilt free when I do.

What’s been the most important change you’ve made since joining NF Coaching?

AYLETTE: My close friend said what she noticed I’m no longer pushing myself so hard that I end up sick or injured. I’ve learned to listen to my body and do what’s best for me now.

I’ve signed up for many races this year, BUT I have such an excellent baseline after strength training consistently with Staci and gradually increasing my cardio training.

This year is going so well because the previous year we prepped my body to be able to do all these races. Previous me would have signed up for all the things and then worn myself out and as usual end up in physical therapy again.

It’s being able to dream big, but being patient to get there.

STEVE: Slows consistency pays off every time. You are living proof of this, my friend.

Okay, real talk: NF Coaching isn’t cheap. You’ve been a client for a year and a half. What makes you stick with it and keep investing in yourself?

AYLETTE: I have nothing but good things to say about the program.

This actually isn’t my first time with a trainer. I lived in Italy for six years and found a personal trainer while I was there. He was awesome and the price was also very reasonable. But today, I live in Chicago, and the personal trainers are beyond my price range for what I’m looking for.

It’s different for everyone.

I do not need someone to get me to a gym. I was looking for someone to make a plan for me and help me get to my goals. This sort of online setup works really well for me. I’ve even sent Staci weightlifting videos of myself when I have any questions, then she gives me tips from there. This whole coaching process is so excellent.

I also LOVE the flexibility.

Looking back I’ve changed my goals a lot. In the beginning it was more about strength training. Which was so much fun!

Then last summer I realized I missed triathlons and running and talked to Staci about that. So we switched goals.

I love my workouts and I’m never bored. I just feel happier overall because I’m doing things I really enjoy doing.

Also, I feel incredibly confident in my ability to try any sort of sport. I feel really strong and prepared to do anything.

I went on an incredible hike for over 14 miles (a very difficult one) and the next day did another long hike no problem (in Yosemite). I went snowboarding and felt fine the next day to workout more. Overall I just feel so awesome!

This year I’m going to Glacier National Park and I plan on doing a week filled with long difficult hikes but I know my body is prepared for it. So excited!

STEVE: Staci told me you were “crushing it” and in talking with you I can see that so clearly. Keep up the momentum Aylette!

Do you have any advice for someone who might be just starting their fitness journey or someone who has yet to decide to make a change?

AYLETTE: I do:

Find what you like!

If you don’t like running, don’t do it.

Same with nutrition. If you can’t eat the same thing every day, don’t. It’s supposed to be a lifestyle change – not a quick change to lose 20lbs as fast as possible.

Small changes will add up. Dedicating two years to make a change that will last a lifetime is so much more valuable than quick changes, with quick results, that only lasts for a short period of time.

Also, everyone starts somewhere. When I first starting running a long time ago I would “run” with a friend. We met a few times a week and I will never forget our excitement when we ran around a city block without stopping. Haha. A city block!

Since then I’ve run a marathon.

Our first goal was to run 5K and to run without stopping- it took over 40 minutes but we did it. Then my friend signed up to do a triathlon – so I joined too. I didn’t even own a bike and I definitely couldn’t swim. I borrowed her husband’s mountain bike and “swam” whatever way I could. It was so much fun!

You don’t need fancy equipment to do your first triathlon, you don’t need an expensive gym to strength train, and you don’t have to eat only chicken and broccoli to lose weight. Dream big, be patient, and let your coach guide you to get you there. 🙂

STEVE: Solid advice: pick goals, do things you like, and be patient.

Alright Aylette, I ask everyone and you’re not getting out of it: what makes you a nerd?

AYLETTE: Video games! Zelda specifically!

I’m a huge Zelda fan ever since A Link to the Past for Super Nintendo. I have still yet to beat Breath of the Wild, but it’s a great game!

I attended a Zelda escape room in Chicago with a friend I met at Camp NF 🙂

STEVE: Okay, we should end on that note, because if I start talking about Breath of the Wild we’ll be here all day.

Aylette, thank you so much for taking the time to speak with us! I wish you all the best in the days and races ahead!

THE 5 KEYS TO AYLETTE’S NEW FOUND STRENGTH AND LEVEL UP SUCCESS

It sucks to have to give up your favorite activity because you get hurt.

It’s happened to me once upon a time.

It happened to Aylette too: she kept getting hurt while running.

Now sometimes, you have to move forward from your injury knowing things will have to be different.

However, other times, there are things you can do to keep progressing.

Aylette discovered she fell into this latter group: there were things she could do to continue her passion.

In speaking with her, I discovered that Aylette had 5 key habits that helped her move forward. 5 key traits that allowed her to keep running, literally.

#1) AYLETTE ASKED FOR HELP

In 2017, Aylette was frustrated:

She had just hurt herself yet again from running.

She started to experience pain from CrossFit, so that didn’t seem like a sustainable option either.

Disheartened, she was “losing motivation on what workouts to do.”

Luckily, right around this time she saw that Staci was accepting clients as part of NF Coaching. So Aylette signed up!

That’s not the only help Aylette sought. She also went to a physical therapist, to set up a recovery plan.

This is smart.

When we get injured, it’s so easy to assume that nothing can be done about it.

“I’m hurt and that’s just the way it is.”

This isn’t always the case. Oftentimes recovery plans can be created and executed. You just have to talk to the right experts.

Aylette’s physical therapist advised what muscles she should focus on strengthening.

Aylette’s coach then created a plan to follow through on that advice.

Together these professionals let Aylette know there was something she could do to help break her injury and recovery pattern: she could strength train.

Just because you can’t see a way forward, doesn’t mean one doesn’t exist. If you’re frustrated that your progress and training is stalling, or even reversing, think about asking for some outside assistance. There very well may be some options and solutions, like powerlifting, you haven’t thought of.

Speaking of strength training…

#2) AYLETTE GOT STRONG

One of the best ways to help prevent injury is to grow strong. It’s a point I really strike home in the article “Becoming Antifragile.”

When you pick up heavy weights, you force your body to adapt. Your bones, nervous system, joints, and muscles all need to grow stronger to handle what’s tossed at them.

If you do this consistently, you’re more likely to resist injury because your body has toughened up. Things that might have hurt you in the past no longer will, because you have become “antifragile.”

This is exactly what Aylette did.

Instead of continuing to run, Aylette took a break and dedicated her time to grow stronger.

She would complete:

Deadlifts

Squats

Bench Presses

Pull Downs

If you find yourself getting hurt constantly, think about what you can do differently. Maybe injury doesn’t have to be a natural consequence of running. Maybe some time dedicated to lifting weights will help you pursue your love of endurance sports.

No matter what you enjoy doing in life, being strong will help. It’s the reason strength training is my number 1 recommendation for people trying to get fit.

#3) AYLETTE WAS WILLING TO EXPERIMENT

One of the things I truly love about Aylette’s story was her willingness to experiment. She wouldn’t get stuck in the same routine but instead was open to try new things:

Aylette worked out in her building’s gym. Time is limited and we are all super busy. Previously, Alyette would go to her gym down the street, sometimes in the morning and sometimes in the evening. But it was hit or miss. Only when she started working out in her building first thing in the morning did everything click.

Aylette decided Monday should be a day of rest. Having a set training schedule is key for consistency. Aylette tried different days until she got it right. Monday’s just never worked out (cue Garfield quote), so she decided that instead of fighting her natural instinct, she would rest Mondays and start her training on Tuesday.

Aylette tried counting calories. When Aylette was focused on reaching personal records for power lifts, she focused extensively on her diet and counted calories. This is smart because one of the keys to growing proper muscle is eating correctly. But when Aylette’s prioritized shifted, she stopped logging all her food. However, the time spent counting her calories brought awareness of the meals she was eating, knowledge she still has to this day.

It’s okay to try new things. It’s also okay to stop activities and try something else.

Not everything you experiment with has to stick, like working out in the evenings in the gym. But somethings just might, like deciding Monday is an ideal day for rest.

Plus, some activities like learning to count calories will provide benefits to you whether you decide to continue the practice or not. You’ll know roughly how many calories a piece of chicken has just by looking at it.

Try new things. They all don’t have to stick. But you may be surprised what does.

#4) AYLETTE WENT BACK TO HER PASSION

I’m thrilled that Aylette is back to running. It’s clearly something she loves doing.

It was important for Aylette to take some time off, create a plan to grow strong, then execute that plan.

However, it was also important for Aylette to experiment with her passion, to see if strength training helped her ability to run.

It did.

Today Aylette is crushing races, marathons, and hikes. She’s excited for the future, because she is doing something she truly loves.

Plus, establishing goals and setting personal records provides a fire that motivates her to train and to persevere. When it’s early and sleeping in seems so tempting, Aylette is determined to head to the gym and train because she knows there is a race ahead. She needs to be strong for it.

Find things you love to do. Things that will make excited to raise your heart rate. This is how you make your exercise a lifestyle, not something you’re doing temporarily to get in shape.

If you want to be doing an activity years from now, you need to enjoy it today.

I talk about this in our short video “days and years, not weeks and months”:

youtube

To achieve permanent results, we need to make permanent habits.

If you love running, go running!

If you love doing yoga, do yoga!

If you love strength training, strength train! (Actually, do this one anyway.)

#5) AYLETTE FOUND A SUPPORT NETWORK

I often tell people that if you don’t have to go it alone, don’t go it alone.

A group of people supporting you and encouraging you is invaluable. Or as Aylette put it, “It’s fun being around people with similar goals!”

Aylette found a support network in a number of ways:

Aylette hired her Yoda. Aylette sought advice and guidance from a physical therapist and an online coach.

Aylette joined a triathlon training group. CES (Chicago Endurance Sports) provides Aylette with a sense of community around activities she loves.

Aylette has running buddies. Aylette has a friend she runs with, and the person she is dating is also a runner.

There is such a thing as “positive peer pressure!”

We often associate peer pressure with negative things: ditching school, drinking, etc.

However, depending on your social group, the influence they have on you can be positive:

“There’s an upcoming half marathon in October. You in?”

“We missed you in class last night. Everything okay?”

“I’m going to spend Sunday batch cooking meals for the week. Want to come over?”

The right group of people around you can steer you into healthy behaviors.

On the flip side, a group of friends can also pressure you into staying out late or just having “one more drink.”

Choose your support network wisely.

HOW TO GET RESULTS LIKE AYLETTE

You don’t have to be a runner to learn from Aylette.

I’m on the record stating I don’t care much for endurance cardio, yet even I can learn a thing or two from this running Rebel.

No matter where you are on your fitness journey, I would encourage you to think about what made Aylette successful:

Ask for help. Often times success comes down to asking an expert for advice. Someone who has been where you are and knows how to proceed.

Get strong. A strong nerd is a healthy nerd. Even for heavy endurance activities, strength training can be the key to preventing and overcoming injuries.

Be open to experimentation. Do you always seem to skip the gym in the evenings and instead head straight home? That’s okay! Maybe you’re like Aylette and you’re a morning person. Try switching it up!

Follow your passion. If you love running, keep running! If you don’t, then don’t do it! Finding activities you love is the key to making new habits stick.

Create a support network. Friends, family members, and coaches can all be important in your fitness journey. People to offer advice and encouragement when times get tough (and times will get tough). If you don’t have to go it alone, don’t go it alone.

If you related to Aylette’s story, perhaps with injuries to overcome or endurance goals to reach, consider asking for help.

Depending on your situation, I’d love for you to check out our 1-on-1 NF Coaching Program and decide if it’s something you’d like to learn more about.

If you’re trying to work around old injuries, searching for a new way of eating, or want help developing a strength training practice, we know exactly how to get you there. You can learn more by clicking on the big box below and scheduling a free call with our team!

No matter what you decide, if you’re in a pattern that you just can’t seem to break, try something different (#3. Experimentation).

You never know what lies behind a door until you open it. Who knows what you may discover?

Maybe your preferred sport doesn’t have to lead to injuries.

Maybe there’s an expert who has seen this a thousand times before.

Maybe there’s a solution, like dumbbells in the basement, that you’re literally standing on top of.

I’m glad you’re here reading this today. You found your way to our strange corner of the internet and you’re part of the Rebellion (#5. Support Network).

We’ll continue to be here for you tomorrow, next month, and years from now. And who knows, perhaps Aylette’s story will inspire you and it’ll be your story we share here next.

Nothing would make me happier.

For the Rebellion!

-Steve

PS: I want to give a special shoutout to Coach Staci, who helped Aylette return to her passion of running so she could start earning gold medals. Staci has guided and inspired hundreds if not thousands of Rebels and we are very lucky to have her on Team Nerd Fitness.

If you want to see if we can help you level up your life, check out our 1-on-1 Coaching program. We’d love to talk to you, no matter what you end up deciding.

PPS: A quick throw-back to my Roaring 20’s themed Swing Dancing Class/Book tour stop where I met Aylette! And yes, I tied that bow tie myself, thank you very much.

How Aylette Overcame Injuries, Grew Strong, and Started Winning Gold Medals published first on https://dietariouspage.tumblr.com/

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almajonesnjna · 6 years ago

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How Jennifer the Photographer Discovered a Love of Strength Training, Lost 20 Pounds, and Leveled up Her Life.

“This is why we do this.”

When I heard Jennifer’s story, I knew I had to share it.

She’s a member of the Nerd Fitness community who for years struggled with things most of us can relate to:

Seeking comfort in sugary foods and alcohol.

A lack of energy and all around feeling of fatigue.

An eating disorder as a teenager that created an unhealthy relationship with food.

Not knowing her next step towards a healthier lifestyle.

Jennifer found herself stuck in this pattern until rock bottom presented itself: divorce.

When bad times strike, it becomes easy to slip further into bad habits and vices.

Jennifer knew this and realized she had to turn her life around.

Six months ago, she did just that.

Today, Jennifer loves strength training and is the strongest she’s ever been. She changed her views on food and nutrition and is no longer intimidated by the kitchen. Jennifer recently completed her first 8k, something she couldn’t have dreamed of doing before.

And oh, Jennifer just came back from an epic photography trip where her new found stamina and strength allowed her to hike mountains to capture some awesome shots:

That’s her!

I’m honored that Jennifer has been a member of our 1-on-1 Online Coaching program since August, and has used our guidance to level up her life!

While strength training and getting comfortable in the kitchen are important, the real success for Jennifer has been with her mindset. She knows she can’t change everything at once and is using one small change to spring into another change and then another, using each as a stepping stone to the next.

This new frame of mind is something we can all learn from.

It’s how Jennifer was able to transform so quickly and lose 20 pounds in a healthy, sustainable way. While it seems like changing everything at once is the quickest way to success, it’s often too stressful and thus abandoned.

However, if you do what Jennifer did, and start with one simple habit like a food journal – it can start improving other areas of your life too.

You don’t need to hear it from me though…

Let’s bring in Jennifer!

HOW JENNIFER THE PHOTOGRAPHER LOST 20 POUNDS AND LEVELED UP HER LIFE

STEVE: Hi Jennifer! Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with me.

I’d love to hear from you about your past – can you describe a normal day for you before you joined NF Coaching?

JENNIFER: My day was pretty random, with no real set schedule. It would be hard for me to get up in the morning, and then I’d have an unhealthy breakfast – the American South is full of delicious things like biscuits and fried foods. Later in the day, I’d often find myself needing to take a long nap.

Looking back, I did not have any sort of set schedule and spent my days with a foggy brain and zero energy.

STEVE: I hear ya. A super carb heavy and sugary breakfast can send your blood sugar on a rollercoaster for the day. Sometimes a nap is the only way off of it.

What changed? What made you invest in yourself by joining Nerd Fitness Coaching last summer?

JENNIFER: I had a really horrific divorce and hit an all time low. I moved out of my home in Seattle, WA, back to my hometown in North Carolina. Sometimes you just have to escape your surroundings.

I found myself comforting with sugary foods and alcohol. You know, totally healthy antidepressants.

This really started to take a toll on my body.

I had a moment of clarity then, as I realized I just didn’t have enough knowledge or drive to make changes on my own. I’m a believer in the “spoon theory,” which is a metaphor you see around the internet, which helps explain the limited amount of energy we face.

Imagine having twelve spoons handed to you each morning. Every task or difficult scenario takes a spoon from you. Often at the end of the day, you have no more “spoons” to give.

I knew I’d be much more successful with a routine that didn’t require any “spoons” to get to the gym. Instead, I could just start with workouts from home.

It was right about then I decided to give the Nerd Fitness Coaching program a try. I decided I wanted to be told exactly what to do, which again would require less “spoons” from me.

STEVE: I love the analogy of “spoons!” We’ve talked here in the past that willpower can be a finite resource for many. By the end of the day, you really can just be drained. Our philosophy on the subject matches your thoughts on spoon theory. That’s why we always encourage people to design systems that have the least amount of friction and require the least amount of willpower, or “spoons.”

I’m glad you realized this and wanted to create a system where you could start working out from home. You can grow the practice into a gym routine (or not) later. The important thing is finding a system that allows you to start TODAY.

You’ve been with coach Evan now for six months. Can you talk to me a little bit about what he had you do?

JENNIFER: Evan started me out just counting calories, learning about the foods I ate, and getting used to comfortably logging my meals.

I had an eating disorder as a teenager. Hyper-focusing on everything I was eating and logging it all was really starting to trigger a lot of anxiety and bad memories in the beginning.

But I told Evan all of this at our first meeting and he has been very good about helping me completely turn my perspective around about tracking my meals. He told me not to have any judgment about what I was eating, and to view the practice as a scientist collecting data.

That perspective helped (Steve’s note: woo! Science rules!)

For exercise, Evan started me out just taking a walk every day, followed shortly by some basic bodyweight exercises. At first, these were really tough, because I was really out of shape to start. I’d end most sessions a sweaty exhausted mess on the floor.

Then Evan added in more dumbbell exercises (I have a small set at home and borrowed a bench from my family) and I instantly fell in love with those exercises! Evan made sure to add more of those into my routine as well.

STEVE: That’s great to hear Jennifer. It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of strength training.

What’s your routine like now? What else is Evan having you do?

JENNIFER: 5 months in, I’m even more of an avid walker. I walk daily, sometimes over 5 miles, or sometimes shorter if my walking buddies bail on me.

Total flakes (j/k, I love you guys).

I do strength training 3 days a week with a combination of bodyweight and dumbbell exercises.

We just introduced some yoga routines to both help with stress relief and to help with stretching and mobility. I have had some issues with cranky muscles and joints on occasion, which yoga is helping with.

The whole experience has been crazy to me.

I’ve gotten to the point where I enjoy some kind of physical activity every day of the week.

And fell IN LOVE with lifting weights.

It is damn satisfying to see myself becoming a chick with “guns.”

At this point, I have bigger biceps than my father and brother, haha. I am loving every second of that. It feels so good to be strong and be able to handle things on my own.

As a female, that is even more important to me because society is pretty much built around telling us women that we can’t be strong enough and we cannot do things on our own. I am fed up with that cultural stereotype!

As an aside, prior to joining NF Coaching, I was greatly inspired by Staci’s story and transformation. I like to think I’m following in her footsteps.

STEVE: Yes! I love it. I think everyone should follow a strength training practice: man, woman, child, grandparent, self-aware robot… all of them! I’m really glad you found this new passion.

Also, I’m glad you found inspiration from Staci! Many a rebel around here have also changed their lives after reading about Staci.

You sent over some awesome pics of a recent trip in Scotland. Can you talk to me a little bit about that?

JENNIFER: It was my goal in 2018 to do a hiking trip in Scotland. With Evan’s help, I got enough strength and endurance to do exactly that!

I went on a photography workshop on the Isle of Skye and completed the most difficult hike I have ever done up to a rock structure called the Old Man of Storr. It was one of the proudest moments of my life. I couldn’t have done it without Evan’s help. So I am quite grateful.

I wanted to be able to do the mountain hikes with all my heavy camera gear on my back, without being assigned to the group of folks who couldn’t do as much. I knew I was in no shape to do it originally.

However, Evan and I created a plan, executed it, and boom! Up the mountain I went.

I can do so many cool things with my body that I wasn’t able to do 5 months ago! I power walked my first 8k about a month after starting with Evan. It was hard but I had built the endurance from walking every single day before it.

STEVE: I think it’s so great that you worked towards a goal and then hit it. I often encourage people to try and build up strength for an event. Something like a marathon, a ski trip, or in your case a photography workshop on the top of a mountain.

It gives you something to shoot for, something to motivate you to work out when it seems so much easier to skip it. I’m glad you created a goal for yourself, made a plan with your coach, and then nailed it!

Your physical appearance has changed. What else has changed about you?

JENNIFER: I’ve had vast improvements in my posture which I think in turn has improved my self-confidence.

There’s something about standing straight and tall with your shoulders back that makes you feel a bit like a badass. Someone who can conquer anything the day will throw at you.

I’ve also battled depression for most of my adult life. And while it by no means is cured, the severity of it has been lessened by the daily physical activity and improved nutrition.

All around, today I have the general ability to do more things because I have more energy and focus than I used to.

I still have days when I get overly stressed out and go a bit off the rails with my nutrition and make unhealthy choices. However, I appreciate Nerd Fitness for the “never twice in a row” mindset. It keeps me from feeling like an utter failure if I have a day with too much pizza or delicious cake or something. I just know the next day, it’s time for me to get back on track.

STEVE: That’s so cool! I’m happy “never twice in a row” resonated with you. I think it’s an important tool for preventing bad habits from developing. When people slip up (and we all slip up), it can become so easy to continue. Having a motto that stops this trend from continuing is a game-changer. I’m proud of you Jennifer.

You mentioned a need to adjust your relationship with food. Can you talk to me a little bit about that? What’s your nutrition strategy like now?

JENNIFER: I’m proud to say I’ve changed my relationship with food. I’ve always used food as a comfort. Knowing this, I was really nervous about even just logging my food. Looking back though, it was such an important first step.

Tracking everything I was eating was eye-opening.

It helped me see what I was putting into my body, which gave me more confidence and determination in the kitchen. As of today, I’ve conquered cooking all kinds of foods, founds healthy recipes I enjoy, and am beginning to work on meal prep. Evan has a strategy for me to plan ahead on food preparation.

Healthy eating really has been a game changer. I am much more clear-headed today than I was six months ago, and I credit nutrition as a huge reason why.

I don’t really follow Paleo or anything like that.

Coach Evan has introduced me more into a “If It Fits Your Macros” style of eating. He really hammered in the thought that I had to eat protein with every meal.

I’ve also drastically reduced my sugar and alcohol consumption, although I’ll still indulge from time to time. Going back to “If It Fits Your Macros,” if I know I’m going to be eating dessert or having some drinks, I’ll plan for it and reduce my calories and carbs beforehand. Again though, I’m doing this less and less. I actually prefer healthier foods now, to be honest.

STEVE: That’s great to hear you say that. We here at Nerd Fitness continuously remind everyone that 80-90% of the weight loss comes down to nutrition. Not only that, but REAL food just makes you feel better. Which will give you more energy to workout. I’m glad that Evan has helped you see a plate of food differently.

What are you still working on? What new habits are you trying to develop?

JENNIFER: I am still establishing a fixed routine for sleeping and waking up, which is definitely something that has been a struggle to do. I have seen improvements though.

I’ve created a pretty solid breakfast routine, prioritizing protein. Oftentimes it’ll be cottage cheese, which I never realized I’d like!

I also have a glass of water upon waking up, which has been a good change.

Earlier I mentioned I started doing yoga. I’m experimenting with doing it first thing in the morning.

My biggest challenge for creating a successful morning routine is going to bed on time. I would say this is still a work in progress. One habit at a time.

STEVE: Getting to bed on time can be such a critical step. I’ve struggled with being a “morning person” myself, but it really is worth pursuing the routine. Keep at it, Jennifer!

Do you have any words of advice for somebody who hasn’t invested in any program and can’t seem to make any progress?

JENNIFER: Don’t fall into the perfectionistic trap that I did and feel like you have to do ALL the things at once or you are a total failure. No human can dive into deep water before learning to swim.

Trying to do that is like taking a starter character in World of Warcraft and heading straight to a high-level dungeon: you’ll get trampled.

If you cannot commit to a program or feel overwhelmed that’s completely okay. Start small. Pick a small change and stick to that and build onto that routine once you’ve gotten comfortable. This way you slowly mold yourself into the person you want to be.

I loved RPGs and grew up during the NES and SNES era and building good habits and getting healthy feels exactly like those games in a way. You don’t start at level 99,999 doing max damage to everything. You level up from the beginning and gain spells and abilities along the way and your character slowly evolves into the one you want it to be.

I think the Nerd Fitness “Level Up Your Life” motto is incredibly accurate.

Great change is made by accomplishing many smaller changes. And you’re so much less likely to become discouraged and just rage-quit if you go about change this way.

STEVE: That’s amazing Jennifer. You nailed the whole philosophy on “Level Up Your Life.” Start small, and before you know it you’re a top-level mage slaying dragons with ice spells. Or in your case, climbing up mountains.

Alright, one last question: you’ve already used some of our language, but what makes you a nerd?

JENNIFER: I consider myself a multi-dimensional nerd! If that’s not a phrase I am deeming it thus. I’ve loved video games since I was very small. Loved all the NES and Mario games, as well as the Zelda series and RPGs like Chrono Trigger and the Final Fantasy series.

I’ve played World of Warcraft with an awesome guild of all women for over 10 years.

Shout out to Daughters of the Alliance!

Comics are also a love. My absolute favorite is Neil Gaiman’s Sandman, and pretty much anything else he or David Mack have been involved in. I pretty much love all things nerdy.

STEVE: I do love me some Neil Gaiman too – I actually have Vol 1 of Sandman sitting on my coffee table! Thank you for taking the time to speak with me, Jennifer! All the best!

THE SIX KEYS TO JENNIFER’S WEIGHT LOSS AND LEVEL UP SUCCESS!

In speaking with Jennifer, I realized she had a few great traits which helped her succeed.

Lots of people embark on a fitness journey. Unfortunately, many of them are exactly where they started six months later.

Jennifer is different. In half a year, she’s changed her relationship with food, begun strength training, and has taken an epic trip.

After a rough patch, she used hitting rock bottom to turn her life around.

In speaking with her, and analyzing her choices and decisions, I think there are six traits that set Jennifer apart.

Here’s what we can learn from Jennifer’s success:

#1) JENNIFER STOPPED RELYING ON WILLPOWER

I love Jennifer’s “spoon” analogy. She knew she only had so much energy, only so much willpower, to get things done. So she sought a system that would require the least amount from her:

Instead of buying a gym membership she would never use, she started working out from her home.

Jennifer started with simple bodyweight exercises, a solid strategy to build momentum

Once she got a little more comfortable from working out at home, she starting using dumbbells and a bench press that she had access to. Again, all from home.

Working out and going to the gym are not tied together. If you have limited experience and/or motivation, start by doing simple bodyweight exercises at home. This is what Jennifer did!

Second, know that working out gives you more energy. Which can help give you more willpower. Which can help you embark on other habits like cooking or meal prep.

If you want to head to a gym for exercise, great! I do. However, if you have a hard time motivating yourself to..

http://bit.ly/2GszMDY

#How Jennifer the Photographer Discovered a Love of Strength Training #Lost 20 Pounds #and Leveled up

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albertcaldwellne · 6 years ago