How habits and science helped me finally lose 10kg of fat

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I was overweight from the age of 12 all the way to my mid-thirties. It was a constant source of dissatisfaction and insecurity.

I got into the rave scene and experimented with ecstasy in my early twenties. I smoked for a few years and played varsity hockey. My weight went down to 80kg.

After varsity I got a corporate job and became more sedentary. Exercise was replaced with a commute and my weight peaked around 87kg.

For perspective, I’m now 41 and weigh 72kg with a healthy body fat percentage. The catalyst was 4 years ago I when I got help from a dietician. I started eating more smartly and doing regular strength training and running.

There’s no doubt that improving my body composition has helped with my sense of self worth. But it has also improved my mental capacity, increased my energy levels and helped me cope better with stress.

These posts are mainly about business and leadership but I wanted to share this part of my own journey because I think every leader or business person could benefit from investing in their physical wellness.

People often comment on how disciplined I am. Ironically, I’m one of the least disciplined people I know. To compensate, I apply some willpower in the beginning and then rely on the power of habits.