Not long ago, I received an email from a 5-year KOPS, asking for a blog on continuing the journey. Wow, that brought me up short! I figured, incorrectly, that a member who had maintained goal that long had this weight thing all figured out, and was sailing along smoothly with no worries. Wrong, Barbara!
As I reflected on my own journey and those of so many others who travel this road beside me… no matter how far along the path that each of is. This pointed me to the need to ask questions of fellow members and listen carefully to what each one had to say. I discovered that (to paraphrase Mia Angelou) we are definitely more alike than we are different.
Here are just a handful of the commonalities that seem to keep us from keeping on if we do not recognize and act upon then. We will encounter a wide variety of hindrances, obstacles, detours and challenges and often at the most unexpected times. As time passes, we may forget the importance of the purpose of the goal we originally set. was. Many other events will distract us, lead us in a different direction and steer us away from a clear path. Our original intent and enthusiasm fades and may be replaced by boredom, complacence and waning motivation to continue. Some pieces of advice to combat all of this include:
- Believe in what you are doing – – and the reason you decided to do. Living your best life each day is the best!
- Know you have the ability to succeed – – reflect on the distance you have traveled to renew your strength and enthusiasm. Keep enjoying each day!
- Keep focused on your goal – – being healthy, active and happy as you journey on is so important. Making great memories as you go makes the trip even more worthwhile.
- Don’t focus on the circumstances – – there will be rough spots to navigate. Focus on overcoming each challenge and learning from it to empower the journey.
- “No” may actually mean “I don’t know” – – if a path chosen, doesn’t work out, you may just need to find another way to go. You may not know the route to choose right away but persist. The right way for you is there.
- Encourage yourself – – be your own cheerleader. Look into your memory and bring forward those shining moments of success to lift you through rough spots. Embrace that happiness and joy, and smile.
- Don’t give up or give in – – keep searching, learning and growing. You can overcome and continue.
“The most essential factor is persistence — the determination never to allow your energy or enthusiasm to be dampened by a discouragement that must inevitably come.” – James Whitcomb Riley
Learning as I go, Barb
By Maxine Lydell June 30, 2022
Really enjoy your posts. Great ideas to keep us going, between meeting.
By Dale H June 27, 2022
As an upcoming 3-year KOPS ( this time around), I LOVE that someone asked AND that answers were given! I was asked to give the KOPS address at our SRD this past month. The following quote was one I used. ” Consistency is harder when no one is clapping for you. You must clap for yourself during those times. You should ALWAYS be your biggest fan.” Luis Garcia
It can be difficult. We can lose focus, motivation and drive. I applaud those who remain steady on the course. I also applaud those who may lose the way, reach out for help and continue to ask…for support. Let US all remain determined to live this best life.
By Ron Wenberg June 21, 2022
Thanks Barb, Ya just gotta keep going forward especially after you’ve taken a few steps back. Never quit, never give up. I’m using this for our program Th. night. It’s so meaningful!
By Rosemary Gibson June 21, 2022
As an 18 year Kops, the struggle is real. I have weeks where I lose focus and motivation when temptation is in front of me. Certain foods are so hard to resist or even have in moderation. Thank you for these ideas and words of encouragement. I will strive to get back on plan when I fall short of my original goals.
By Janet Long June 21, 2022
Thanks Barb Your encourage is very helpful.
By Shirley Renaud June 21, 2022
Persistence is part of our closing pledge..”Persistence and resistance will prolong our existence” Thank you for posting this. It makes our pledge even more complete.
Happy first day of summer!
By Thelma M. Johnson July 5, 2022
I like that part of your closing pledge. What is the entire pledge?
By Gina June 20, 2022
Thanks Barb. This will be on our TOPS meeting program tomorrow, something to think about and discuss.
By Charlotte Blackmer June 20, 2022
I am approaching my 8 year anniversary as KOPS. My chapter did not meet for 13 months during Covid and I know 3 of us KOPS struggled during this time. One even lost KOPS status but later regained. 2 of us aways under goal al the time. Bad habits I guess without accountability. We did do zoom for most of the time which was helpful. Your points excellent. Thank You!
By Charlotte Blackmer June 20, 2022
I am approaching my 8 year anniversary as KOPS. My chapter did not meet for 13 months during Covid and I know 3 of us KOPS struggled during this time. One even lost KOPS status but later regained. 2 of us aways under goal al the time. Bad habits I guess without accountability. We did do zoom for most of the time which was helpful. Your points excellent. At first one did not think it would last as long as it did.
By Wanda June 20, 2022
Wonderful guidance for KOPS, Barb, but also for those members who may have hit a plateau or are struggling to remain motivated long enough to make it to KOPS. Thanks for these points that will help us all cope with the ups and downs of striving for, reaching and maintaining our long term goals. Together we can!
By Debbie June 20, 2022
Hi Barb! Thank You So Much for this post. Very Good!! Debbie
By Joyce Hayward June 20, 2022
Thanks for your comments . I loved this one.
By Hilda Dyck June 20, 2022
Wonderful, encouraging words. This will help me to always thing beyond obstacles – that there always is a way through.
Thank you.
By I. Jasper June 20, 2022
Barb,
I think you answered my question very well. Thank you for the guidance on how to keep on – keeping on after 5 years as a KOPS.
By i Jasper October 12, 2022
Barb,
I used this message for a program today. We have 75 members about half of them or KOPS. Everyone thought this was very encouraging. Thanks for answering me by creating this Blog.
By Heidi Bishop June 20, 2022
These points are great and each one jogged my brain to think.