The tool created to weigh an object and provide a measurement of mass. That is the sole purpose of a scale. So why, OH WHY, does the scale get treated like it holds more power than a genie lamp?
The scale has the ability to determine if today is going to be a good day or a bad based on the numbers populated. It has the ability to impact one’s mood. It has the ability to tie numbers to one’s self worth.
Remember y’all, it is a scale. It is a tool. So is this an evil tool or do we give the scale more power then it was ever meant to have?
I believe the answer to this question can easily be answered by asking, how often do you weigh yourself. Daily? Twice a day? Once a week? If the answer is yes, dare I say you are giving the scale, more power than it deserves.
If weight loss is the goal, it would be wise to weigh in on the scale and record those numbers as a starting point. Now when it is wise to weigh again? I can tell you, it isn’t the next day! Small things like eating higher sodium causing water retention, or not having used the bathroom all affect the scale. So weighing daily is not an accurate measurement. Stay off the scale for 3-4 weeks. I can almost hear the gasps. Again, if weight loss is the goal and both nutrition and workouts are consistent, the scale will trend downward and 3-4 weeks is enough time to allow your body to adapt to these changes and see the scale reflect that.
A direct correlation of eating better will be feeling better! Therefore success can also be measured simply by your clothes fitting better, having more energy, moving faster and lifting heavier. All of these have nothing to do with the scale and yet are great tools for measuring progress! Personally, mile splits and deadlift PRs are numbers I care about way more than the number on the scale.
Listen to me, you do NOT have to obsess daily over the scale. You do not need to exhale, lean, stand on one foot, get naked, remove your earrings every day to get the scale to budge. I hope you’re laughing reading this ridiculousness, especially if this depiction was you just this morning.
Respect the scale, but respect yourself more. Take ownership of the numbers, but do not let your self worth be tied to directly to the digits.
I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well.
Psalm 139:14