In Retrospect - First Quarter

Three months into my Living Less Predictably lifestyle change, I thought it would be a good idea to see how things have really changed.  I have noticed some big changes, a general attitude change, and some other smaller changes.

Food
The reason I brought back the 'new recipe each week' last year was, honestly, I was waking up some mornings dreaming about weird food combinations.  This year I haven't made a new recipe each week, but my brain hasn't started to rebel yet either.  This week I'm hoping for some more variety though!  I've enjoyed the recipes I have made, mostly, and silken tofu and quark make regular appearances in my diet now.  I'm also much more likely to try a new brand or new food, often purposely searching out a new variety.

Clothes
This has been a big change.  I've mentioned before why I needed to change this, and I've really noticed the difference recently.  Last year was really a matter of "What's in my wardrobe that doesn't need ironing?" but this year I actually think about what I'm wearing, if I've worn this combination before, if it's actually going to look good (and, let's face it, photograph well).  Planning outfits before the week begins has also helped immensely. 

The other clothing change has been my attitude towards clothes.  Most of the clothes I've bought in the last 6 months don't really fit anymore.  While this is sad, I'm much more content now with the idea of giving them away and getting myself some new clothes (from op shops).  Previously, I would have stared at a suspect item for a while (like, a year at least), then maybe had a probation wearing, and then if I don't like it, stare at it for a bit more, until deciding I need to give it away.  On Wednesday though, I just pulled 2 dresses out of my cupboard and gave them away - I knew they would look better on this friend than on me, and they'd only had 1 outing each this term.  Gone.

Exercise and Health
The exercise regime change has been a great change.  It's really easy to notice improvements - I'm running further and faster, I can go faster up hills, and I can run up the hill on which I live.  I don't think I take as many breaks in gym sessions (although that might be just me...), and I have much more variety in what I do. 

I'm a much trimmer version of me.  Last year, I started the Zone eating plan, and Trainer Dan recommended measuring, not just weighing.  I was rather sporadic in that last year, so this year I'm being organised (or OCD), and measuring every 4 weeks.  So far I've lost 3 cm from my waist.

Viewing
Although I still have nights where all I can do is curl up on the sofa and watch NCIS, I have watched so much more this year.  So many movies, nearly all of them good.  One horrendous movie that I wouldn't wish on anyone, but apart from that, a very interesting mix.  And I have so many more to see!  I'm also far less rigid in my viewing habits, which has to be a good thing.

Social Occasions
This has been the biggest change I've noticed so far.  I'm much more likely to say Yes to something, and am starting to be able to change my plans (like last week).  Fridays have turned into social occasions, and I worry far less if I will have enough sleep.  Mostly because I've hardly slept all term.  Although I wouldn't go so far as to say I'm comfortable socialising now, I am less uncomfortable socialising, and more likely to actually do something instead of just staying home. 

I have a few ideas for new things for the next quarter - let me know if you have any ideas for me to try!