This Is Why I Haven’t Had A Diet Coke In Nine Months

For the first time in my life, I finally kept a new year’s resolution. I came to a point where I knew that I needed to stop eating and drinking whatever I wanted and make exercise and getting healthy a priority in my life. I’m not sure what did it, but I’m guessing it’s that whole 30th birthday thing that gets you motivated to look and feel your best.

photo cred: Paige Colaberdino Photography

So as I step into a new decade (tomorrow!) I’m happy to say that I really do look and feel the best I have. Like, ever. It didn’t happen overnight and I still crave a diet coke and a bowl of pasta like all the time. I’d rather drink wine than go to the gym, but there’s no better feeling than being able to fit into a size you never thought would be hanging in your closet. It’s true what they say about how nothing tastes as good as skinny feels.

Here are some of the changes I made when I felt it was time to commit to a healthier lifestyle.

1. I Gave Up Soda

I love caffeine and I will never in my life give up coffee, but it’s not full of all the crap you find in soda, so I’m fine with it. I have never been addicted to Diet Coke, but I would definitely drink it on the reg. Something about a fountain DC on a road trip or when you’re hungover seems to cure all of life’s problems. (Well, every problem except my love handles!) When you’re counting calories, there’s no room for pointless soda consumption. Plus, you aren’t getting hydrated so what’s the point? I’d much rather go for a glass of wine if I had to choose a liquid to use my calories on!

2. I Save Carbs for Breakfast and Lunch

I’m not an over-the-top psycho calorie counter, but I definitely try and keep a generalized calorie tally in my head to stay somewhere around 1500 calories. Believe me when I say it adds up fast, so I am actually disgusted at the thought of how many I used to consume. There’s such a difference when you are being aware of how much you are putting into your body and when. I typically save most of my carbs for earlier in the day so I have plenty of time to burn them off!

3. I Started Going On Power Walks Almost Daily

It doesn’t take a scientist to tell you that diet and exercise lead to weight loss, but I think I’m just here to remind you! I committed to going on a 2 mile walk at a 4.2 pace on the treadmill 4-5 times per week and that’s typically what I do. It takes 30 minutes and just getting up and moving ensures you will burn enough calories to eventually start losing weight.

Outdoor power walks with this gal are pretty great, too! Thanks for being my walking buddy, Leanne! photo cred: Krissy Leigh Creative

Now, don’t get me wrong. There are plenty of weeks I stray from my plan (this week being one of them!) When you have a lot going on, it’s hard to make this a priority. However, you will be so glad when you do! Trust me.

The truth is, it doesn’t have to be the end of December for you to commit to a life of wellness. Start today. Think how happy you’ll be in two months if you start now instead of continuing procrastinate your health.

So as I head to Vegas tomorrow to celebrate this new decade with four of my best girlfriends, I have to admit that my crop tops, short shorts and tight dresses will all be packed in my suitcase. Obviously. And I’ll strut around in these outfits feeling awesome because nine months ago, I committed to stop drinking soda and I don’t plan on ever looking back.