It is something that you are adding to your life, not a burden that is taking away. People who exercise regularly are communicating to themselves and the world how they should be treated. They are making a statement that they are willing to give to themselves for the sake of giving health and care without so much regard of what they will “get out of it” in terms of losing weight or looking good. Give yourself emotional strength, the ability to overcome excuses, motivation, pride, and the emotional commit- ment to state that you matter. This approach made the difference when I was trying to lose seventy pounds of fat from my body. It seemed like a huge mountain to climb and I wanted to “take” the results as quickly as I could. I was actually quite greedy in my wanting it right now! I began a pretty serious exercise program, and I worked out like crazy for six weeks and didn’t lose one pound! I literally needed help sitting down because I was so sore, but my fat level had not budged. Many people quit at this stage. I remember feeling betrayed by working so hard and not having one thing to show for it. That darn scale had not budged! Instead of giving up, I connect- ed to myself and felt the truth. I knew that I was giving myself an amazing gift by working out everyday. I 53 • If IAm So Smart, Why Can’t I Lose Weight?