Exerciser unhappy with slow results
DEAR HARRIETTE >> I have been working out twice a week with a virtual trainer for a little over a year now. I am proud of myself for doing this and being mostly consistent, but it is taking forever to get real results. I can’t do high-impact exercises because of a knee injury, but I am working out.
The other day I put on some shorts, and I was disappointed to see that even with all this working out, I still have cellulite. It’s not fair. I felt too self-conscious to wear the shorts outside with those dimples showing.
Do you think I’m being paranoid? My body is tighter in general, and I definitely feel healthier. It’s just taking too long.
— Working Out
DEAR WORKING OUT >> First, congratulations for sticking to an exercise routine for this long. It has taken commitment on your part to exercise consistently this year.
Give yourself credit for what you have accomplished. Take a look at your whole body in the mirror: front to back, head to toe. Notice the improvements that you have made and what you want to work on. Be kind as you look at yourself. You may want to take pictures — for yourself — so you can document your progress.
Regarding the cellulite, check in with your doctor to see if there are any treatments that may work to break it up. Some people maintain cellulite even when they have very little body fat. It may just be there for life, but there are procedures that may help reduce or eliminate it. You can also get a second opinion from a friend to see if they think your cellulite is so unsightly that you should not wear your shorts.
Chances are, you are being overly critical.
DEAR HARRIETTE >> I just secured a big new contract for my company. I run a small business with just two employees. I am careful to save as much money as I can, because I remember when I could hardly pay the bills.
I’m wondering if I should give my assistant a bonus, given that this money just came in. She has been so helpful to me, including accepting very low pay when times were tough.
I will still save as much as I can, but I think she would appreciate it. I can’t promise that I will always give her a bonus when big jobs come in, though. So I wonder whether or not this is a good idea.
— Gift of Appreciation
DEAR GIFT OF APPRECIATION >> Trust your instincts. It is a wonderful idea to share a bonus with your dedicated assistant at this time. She has proven her loyalty to you and your company.
I’m sure your assistant knows that a windfall has come your way. Yes, give her a check, and thank her for all of her hard work. Tell her that you wanted to give her something extra to express your appreciation. You do not have to say that it is because of the new project. She knows. What’s important is expressing your gratitude for her.
Harriette Cole is founder of DreamLeapers, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. Send questions to askharriette@ harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.