Chapter 1: Getting Started

Day 2 of My 100-Day Weight Loss Challenge: Let’s Dive In!

On August 9th, 2022, I faced a pivotal moment. Just days prior to restarting my weight loss journey, I promised myself that I wouldn't buy any groceries until I finished what I already had at home. However, despite my determination, I ended up purchasing a few more items. To be honest, my freezer is stocked enough to last me a month, but my fridge tells a different story. Regardless, this experience is a valuable lesson in self-discipline.

Important Reminder: Avoid Purchasing Excessive Food!

With that off my chest, let’s talk about how Day Two unfolded.

Fasting from Dawn to Dusk:

As indicated, I fasted from 4:30 AM until 8 PM, both yesterday and today. My pre-dawn meal yesterday consisted of Raisin Bran with almond milk, a mini cherry Pepsi, and two bottles of water. It was a regrettable choice, as I found myself famished by the time I broke my fast at 8 PM. The hunger led me to overindulge, and it felt like I was on autopilot, grabbing everything in sight from the fridge.

Today, I missed my pre-dawn meal, but interestingly, I didn't feel the usual intense hunger despite being quite active. My day included:

• Preparing breakfast for a client
• Grocery shopping
• Delivering groceries and assisting with unpacking
• Taking out the trash
• Clocking out and returning home
• Cooking meals for the week
• Teaching three classes while multitasking in the kitchen
• Writing yesterday's "Day 1" post

All of this was accomplished without a single thought about food! However, I did formulate a plan to be mindful of my meals when I eventually broke my fast.

Two-Week Mini Challenge: Acknowledging Inspiration

To kick off this two-part segment, I want to express my gratitude to Sufyan Maan, M.Eng., whose writing inspired me to undertake this challenge. While browsing Medium, I discovered his article about various 30-day challenges, where he candidly discussed his successes and failures. His honesty resonated with me, especially since my journey has been filled with more setbacks than triumphs.

I was particularly drawn to some of the challenges he proposed, and I eagerly adopted a few into my own plan. When I commented on his post, I never expected him to respond, but he did! A week later, he even checked in on my progress—what a pleasant surprise! Such affirmations are incredibly motivating for me.

Mini Challenge: Confronting Food Consumption

The first mini challenge I chose centers around my struggle with food purchases. I often find it difficult to resist buying groceries, even when I have plenty at home. Regrettably, this leads to waste. Seeing unused food makes me cringe, especially considering some of it is for my family. I still have items from purchases made back in March, and my initial plan to meal prep for Ramadan fell short.

This week, I aim to adhere to a healthier menu, which includes:

• Salmon
• Kale and Spinach
• Green beans with mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers
• Roasted vegetables
• Tuna salad
• Roasted Edamame
• Breakfast Scramble Salad
• Pears, Nectarines, and Mangos

While I still have more to add, this is my starting point. I'll create menu posts to organize my weekly meals.

Day 2 Menu: A Balanced Approach

Last night's meal was far from healthy, so I opted for lighter fare today. My dinner included:

• A serving of baked salmon
• 1/3 cup of kale and spinach
• 1/3 cup of Mediterranean vegetables
• A snack cup of applesauce
• Green tea blended with frozen raspberries

Delicious! I did indulge in a planned bowl of ice cream, but it will be the last for a while as I shift my focus. I also had two bags of spicy nacho chips, meaning Day 3 will be a junk food-free day—Bismillah!

Today’s Workout Routine: A Productive Session

I completed a 45-minute workout with my trainer, shifting our usual schedule to Tuesdays and Thursdays. This change allows me to balance my training with independent workouts more effectively. Today’s session focused on strength training, and I felt every bit of it!

Overall, today was fulfilling. I maintained my activity levels, exercised, enjoyed my last indulgence, and felt great. Tomorrow is another opportunity, and I’m genuinely looking forward to it!

Here's the first video from my weight loss challenge, offering tips and an easy workout to kickstart your journey!

Chapter 2: Progress Check

Day 5 Insights into My 100-Day Challenge

In this video, I discuss my experiences after five days of the summer weight loss challenge, sharing strategies and reflections.