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Teamwork begins at home #MyFriendAlexa

October 8, 2020

“He, who considers his success belongs only to him, stands alone” is a strong belief my parents instilled in us as kids. Being humble and acknowledging the part others play in our life is the least form of appreciation one can express. Just like the lead actor in a movie would merely be an insufferable pretty face in the absence of a good story or direction, without our family’s support and guidance we can easily lose track. Teamwork hence, believe it or not, is the first and foremost lesson we learn as kids.

My family has been a part of my transformation journey as much as my worn out running shoes and overused Yoga mat. Mind you, I mean this as a HUGE compliment. They’ve silently watched me sacrifice my favourite sweets and vociferously objected when my paranoia reached detrimental proportions. However, they’ve backed my fitness zeal with an almost undeserved patience. What did this teamwork help me achieve though?

The New Me_avibrantpalette

Eating out with healthy changes

We’re a foodie family and love eating out. There was a time when A and I travelled across the city to Tardeo only to enjoy the super buttery Sardar Pav Bhaji. We raided the best buffet places like Barbecue Nation and tasted every single dish with keen interest. The apple hasn’t fallen far from the tree as our kids too share our love for good food.

Regrettably, all this changed for good when I decided to make irreversible lifestyle changes 3 years ago. Although I plan to make amends with time, as of now my healthy eating rule is in effect.

  • We opt for Tandoori starters only instead of fried ones.
  • Avoid refined flour naans and choose wheat flour tandooris.
  • No aerated drinks during or after meal.
  • Hold back second helpings if going for dessert.

My heart broke when “You’re not fun to eat out with anymore” was slapped on me suddenly one day. However, with time they’ve fallen in line with my choices. It isn’t always fair to them though, I agree.

teamwork_avibrantpalette

Becoming my Marathon buddy

I went for regular jogs but it was about a year ago that I felt inspired enough to register for 5km Indian Oil Navy Marathon with A. For the uninitiated, marathons aren’t just about fitness. They’re a great way to test your endurance as well. You can choose the distance of your choice and complete it by running, walking or both.

  • Albeit grudgingly, A tagged along in the gym and for walks in preparation.
  • I trained him in warming up and cooling down and he did enjoy the different experience.
  • While running, he persisted me to carry on and not let him hold me back.
  • The joy and security of having him around was indescribable.

Incidentally, as luck would have it we missed the IONM. While I went ahead and completed Pinkathon without him, he joined me for one 5km and 6km marathon each in Navi Mumbai. Every time I get a medal, certificate or feature in the newspaper he is more thrilled than me now. Teamwork at it best, isn’t it?

Showing encouragement in unexpected ways

Few days ago a lady relative of ours was visiting us. I had signed up for a 10km marathon coming Sunday and needed to train for it. Morning was busy and I was pressed to jog in the evening, the time I avoid going outdoors since a mask is uncomfortable. I changed into my running gear and started my indoor run oblivious to her judging and rolling eyes while looking at my attire. What happened after that legit warmed my heart.

  • Angel kept my water bottle and napkin ready while A Jr fired up the laptop without waiting for me.
  • I was focusing on my breath and speed but I can vouch that I heard A tell her that “improper dressing leads to injury and is not advisable.”
  • My kids, my official playlist handlers, fell over each other claiming that they knew my choice of music. I don’t use headphones.
  • Someone called while I was running and she coolly admitted that I do work hard on myself.

Killing two birds with one stone, anyone? I felt genuine gratitude to see my family side with me. Not that I needed it, I could take her on too.

transformation_avibrantpalette

There are running, cycling and other fitness groups but teamwork truly begins at home. Being a mom prioritising workout over my kids’ time is a tricky choice sometimes but that’s where discipline kicks in. High time we put the limelight on us for a change. After all, they observe and pick up what we do, not what we say, right?

I am taking my blog to the next level with Blogchatter’s #MyFriendAlexa.

92 thoughts on “Teamwork begins at home #MyFriendAlexa”

  3. I remember our long conversation in the taxi after an event. You had spoken about the support you get from your husband. Reading this post made me so happy because it’s not only your husband but your kids who also support you. Wonderful post, so inspiring and positive. Congratulations for the health transformation! God bless you and your family.

    1. I remember our conversation and you must’ve gathered that I meant every word of it. My family is my backbone and I’m glad that they understand what I need to do for myself. Thank you so much, Mayura!

  4. As i always say, your transformation is very inspiring, Varsha. So glad that you mentioned your family’s contribution, gratitude is surely a trait worth having. I am a big fan of Marathons too, as they are help is aspiring one to stay fit.
    What a motivating post . Kudos to you!

    1. You’ve been with me all along and are witness to it, M. My family puts up with me a lot for my sake, the least I can do is properly thank them for it!
      Marathons are fun and really inspiring. I enjoy them a lot. Thank you!

  5. I agree teamwork beings at home. Its difficult to take care of your fitness with kids and only thing that can help you is disciplined lifestyle and support from family. You motivated me to start my fitness journey again.. love reading this post..

    1. I’ll be beyond happy if I have motivated you to get into fitness again. That’s the whole intention of writing these posts. Thanks a lot for stopping by!

  8. Family’s support is so crucial when it comes to something as important as health because it is not a one day or one meal thing. Many a times I have seen people saying what will happen with one bite, one samosa, one rasgulla…but it makes a difference. Great transformation, great family and more importantly great team work.

    #MyFriendAlexa #ContemplationOfaJoker #Jokerophilia

    1. The ‘only one bite’ greed pulls one back by days in fitness. My family is so used to seeing me eat baked and low cal stuff that now they’re shocked if I ask for fried chips. 😀
      Thank you so much! Family is the best support one can have.

  11. These are some inspiring pointers. Small steps easy to inculcate in daily routine and living. Very well penned. And very true, A team work that begins at home, goes a long way!

  16. Wow Varsha, hats off to you. Team work, hard work & discipline are the ingredients of sure shot success. I love your transformation. I need to do this but I have not been able to push myself well enough. Family support is the backbone of our dreams and goals. It was heart warming to hear how all took up their role so seamlessly. Best wishes for all your endeavors !

    1. Hi Monika! Don’t push yourself, just get started. Once people around you realise that you’re committed, they’ll support you like my family does. Your comment made my day. Thank you so much!!

  18. Amazing post, one that would motivate even the lazy me! I exercise only because my family pushes me to do it, otherwise I could sleep the whole day. Appreciate your discipline and routine. Keep up the good work and keep inspiring us.

  22. What a fantastic post, Varsha. My family also always supports me in my fitness routine. Rather if I am off or keep snapping at people, the first question my hubby wil ask me if I exercised that day. They know I will stay happy if I workout. Right now, I workout at home so I adjust my timimgs but ealier as well never anyone has asked me to miss my gym time even if we have guests at home, they let me make that choice. So I completely agree with you that teamwork begins at home.

    1. Haha, that sounds like something my husband would say too. I’ve seen your healthy lifestyle, Aesha. You and I are very much alike in this matter. Only you’re fitter than me. 🙂
      Teamwork is the best motivation especially on days we aren’t feeling up to it.

  28. Supportive family is the backbone behind every transformation, be it personal or professional. You starting line did that for me, Varsha, Your achievement and prowess to change is an award in itself. You don’t need anyone’s approval to be what you are.

  29. Being a foodie, it’s difficult to maintain your food cravings along with fitness regime. But with time,your family accepts your food choices and slowly change to healthier options.

  33. Good to have a family support ! The way you have presented your thoughts here is remarkable. Sacrificing your liking specially sweets and other food items isn’t easy But you did it. It is great

    1. So glad to have inspired you. Go for it, you’ll love the positive change! Thanks for reading and do get in touch if you want to have a word. Always there!

    1. Know what, diet plays a bigger role in weight loss than workout. Almost 80/20. Make small changes over a period of time along with regular workout. That should work. Ping me if you want to talk. 🙂

  42. II agree family support means a lot and it is really great that you got that from your family members. your transformation is really inspiring.

  43. how very very true, the support of a family while you are trying to transform yourself can make the difference between winning and losing. I have been struggling with trying to lose weight and hear the same thing when trying to eat out, about not being fun anymore, but then they also give me my space to do my yoga everyday.
    P.S. your transformation is amazing!

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