Personal Narrative

In my younger years, I was the chubby kid who would inevitably draw attention at family gatherings filled with well-meaning titas and titos. They never failed to shower me with endearing comments like, "Cute cute mo, taba taba mo," but to me, those words held no judgment or malice that I was fat. Why? Because my father had instilled in me a belief, one that I would carry with me through childhood and beyond: "Wag mo tipirin ang pagkain mo." In essence, it meant that even if I were on a tight budget or doing a diet for losing weight, I should never let myself suffer from hunger.
 

As his son, I embraced these words wholeheartedly. As a child,I found pure happiness in the little things, especially when it came to enjoying good delicious food. Chocolates and ice creams were my constant go-to food, and I would often go out of my way to savor their sweet delights before heading home. Food wasn't just sustenance; it was an expression of joy, a source of comfort,

However, life had a different plan for me when I entered sixth grade. My family decided to go back to the Philippines, a move that brought with it a multitude of cultural adjustments and changes in routine. As I settled into my new life, my weight remained a constant presence, Thanks to my metabolism. But I persevered, adapting to the challenges with an unwavering optimism that was instilled in me since childhood.

Then, the pandemic struck during my seventh and eighth grade. During the pandemic, my routine consisted of sleeping late and oversleeping, eating 5 times or more a day, and playing video games or watching anime.That led to my weight reaching an all-time high of 78 kilograms. At that moment, I knew I had to change.

 

Grade 9 brought a new start from me going back to face-to-face seeing my friends fit and all inspired me more. I was asked to join the school's football team. It was an opportunity that sparked a newfound determination within me. I embarked on a journey to shed those extra body fats. I committed myself to rigorous training, relentless running, and a healthier lifestyle. But once or twice I reward myself.

 

Yet, despite my efforts, I found myself on the bench during the Clraa (Central Luzon Regional Athletic Association) tournament. Rather than indulge in disappointment, this setback became a motivation that I should lose weight so I can run faster and lighter. I forged a new belief: "I BELIEVE having the right mindset and determination will lead you to your dream” For me, it was my body and my mindset is. Being overweight is a choice. Having the right mindset to achieve your dream body Whether you aim to be fit or healthy, But not changing is a negative mindset.

 

With this Motivation. I went on a summer diet journey of transformation. I would eat less of what I usually eat. 3.5 cups of rice to 1 cup or even less. Snacks and ice cream, which used to be my joy, were off the menu. Fast forward 2 weeks. I got bored of what I was eating. the favor was bland its not like me to eat bland i was about to give up so i research about foods with less carbs and i found out the key was not to eliminate carbs entirely but to consume them in moderation. I focused on eating more protein from meats and engaged in regular workouts. Twice a week, I performed 100 jumping jacks, 20 push-ups, and engaged in running or jogging. Biking became another aspect of my fitness routine. In terms of calorie intake, I aimed for 1250 calories or less per day, with each meal comprising around 350 calories. At first you think its hard but no, I can still enjoy eating snacks with 200 or less with my diet. You think its hard but eat more protein and vegetables than carbs.

 

My journey from being the chubby kid at family gatherings to a determined young health boy was a testament to the power of mindset and perseverance. I learned that change wasn't just an option; it was a necessary step towards personal growth and self-improvement. As I continue to pursue my passion for a healthier lifestyle,even tho my body is still kinda fat, I hope my story becomes an inspiration to those around me. It showcased that with the right mindset, one could overcome any obstacle on the path to a happier, healthier life.