Chelsea Speaks: On choosing happiness
The day I met my former trainer, Angela Parker, she asked me a simple question: “Why do you want to lose weight?”
My response: “I just want to be happy.”
My declaration of obtaining happiness was not accepted by Angela that day, and I never understood why.
Three years later, I finally get it.
Having the desire to improve your body and health is okay; but don’t think it will solve your problems, ease your fears, make someone love you or ultimately make you happy.
Happiness is not a destination – it’s a choice. If happiness is what you crave simply choose to be happy.
After the very recent death of my mother, happiness seemed to be a far and removed ideal. Given the amount of time I’ve spent motivating and uplifting others, you would think I’d have mastered the art of getting out of my own way.
But I haven’t.
I’m failing miserably actually.
The numbers on the scale continue to climb and my “skinny” clothes feel more snug. Not to mention my undergarments are starting to cut off my circulation.
It’s been four draining months since I lost my best friend. That’s 120 days of denial, emotional eating, crying myself to sleep, and pretending to be okay. It has been 120 days of mourning, and 120 days of playing the victim and letting such a traumatic loss overshadow my blessings.
I’ve feared the scale, weight gain, and the awaiting criticism of family, friends, and the public. I’ve only recently decided to face my truth because hiding seemed cowardly and selfish.
I’m not sure what’s more upsetting — gaining a little weight or being ashamed of it? I’m only human after all.
It’s important to be proud of your accomplishments, but it’s equally as important to honor your shortcomings and find ways to improve.
I am no longer ashamed, but I’m definitely ready to put my best foot forward and get back to living as the best version of myself.
Don’t spend another moment stressing over what you cannot change or chasing tomorrow. Focus on all of the opportunities and blessings in front of you today.
Today, I choose to be happy.
xo
Chelsea Settles of Uniontown is a former MTV reality television personality who starred in a show of her same name.