Studies have shown that if one chooses to make a lifestyle change, it helps to make it public in order to help that person with accountability.

During my physical last week, my doctor showed me how I’ve gained 60 pounds since I started seeing him almost 20 years ago. Much of that has occurred in the last five years. I knew I wasn’t as healthy as I once was, but seeing the numbers was a bit of ashock. I knew I needed to do something, but I sat on that information for a week in order to not make any impulsive decisions.

This morning, I went to a Weight Watchers meeting. I weighed in at 214.6 pounds–the heaviest I’ve ever been. Five years ago, I did WW to help with my sleep apnea and got down to 175, so I know I can do it.

My doctor wants to see me again in 6 months (mid-August) for a status report. So, it would be great to be able to show him that I got back down to near 175 again. That would be a 40-ish pound drop in 6 months–about 2 pounds per week. That seems doable.

So, I’m making this public. In addition to the Murphy updates, jokes, and one liners I put on Facebook, you’ll see an occasional Weight Watchers update also.

Many people tell me that I look fine or that I don’t need to lose weight. But it’s so much more about putting myself through the mental challenge of self-discipline than anything else–setting a goal and making it happen. In addition to my physical health, I believe that this change in mindset will help challenge me in other areas of my life where I feel like I’ve stagnated.

There will be good days and bad days that I will post. And if my public struggle motivates you to take on a challenge (even if it’s not weight-related) that’s been gnawing at you for awhile, let me know. That’s also part of the reason I’m doing this.

So, to my doctor, game on! See you in August.