We all have sensitivities that co-workers may not be aware of – it’s important to keep that in mind when someone makes a comment that offends you personally. For instance, yesterday someone asked me ‘why did you stop working out?’ Now, to the every day person (or man), maybe they would have laughed it off and been like – yeah, I clearly need to hit the gym hard next week. But when I was asked that question, my mind started spinning and I was really hurt.
The truth is – I have gained weight. Well, 1.2 lbs. So, if I am spending enough time with coworkers for people to actually notice a 1.2 lb weight gain, I have other issues I need to address. But the truth is, weight is a very sensitive subject to me and it always has been. I grew up in a family of four girls in Naperville – home to more Lululemon, Lucy, Bikram Yoga, Lifetime fitness joints than I can count. People there care more about appearance and weight than in any city I have visited. It’s important not only just for health but also for your emotional well-being. And… even though I hate to admit it, weight is important in the workplace (read Nicole Williams ‘Girl on Top’ or Gordon Patzers ‘Looks: Why They Matter More Than You Imagined’).
BUT, in this case it’s possible that the comment came from someone who recently overheard me talking about how much I miss running and how awful shin splints and knee issues really are. I was discussing the issue with another coworker (who also is training for a ½ marathon) and we were coming up with solutions to our ailments and deciding if knee issues will eventually lead to our break-up with running. Doesn’t mean I can’t become a stellar biker or even work it off on the elliptical, but the truth is, running may not be the most realistic of sports for everyone to pursue.
Needless to say, I took the comment very personally and watched everything I ate like a hawk last night… lifted, went on a long walk with Cooper the Dog and tried to shake it off. Regardless of the person’s intention – I probably took it the wrong way and they would probably feel terrible if they knew how much it affected me.
So, when someone makes a comment – whether it is about appearance, money or family – don’t over analyze. Shake it off and if it really hurts, look at why it hurts. Maybe it’s something you’ve been thinking about yourself (whether it’s weight gain, spending more time with family, etc) and you can use the comment as a little extra motivation to hit the ground running and achieve your goals.
2 comments:
Awww. HUGS Megan. You still look absolutely fabulous and I know you will get back on the work out track. One thing that's important to me (and trust me, I have to remind myself constantly), is separating working out and weight. Yes they interrelate, but you need to work out because it feels good and gets you healthy, the weight loss is secondary to that. A friend of mine has a great shirt that says "I Run Because I Like to Eat." But you never want a shirt that says "I Don't Eat Because I Don't Feel Like Running."
You've been a total inspiration to me. I know it's easy to take comments to heart, but use them as motivation, not frustration :)
You are the sweetest. Thank you! I needed the reminder- and you are so right. The confidence that working out gives me could NEVER relate to fitting into a size 8 or size 10 - muscle does something that feeling skinny could never do.
And talk about inspiration - my god, woman. You are nuts! And I love it. So happy for you! Thanks for the comment!
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