Bill Phillip's | Transformation

I feel I'm doing pretty well. I've done all the assignments. It's very helpful to have Jake alongside me, he doesn't let me slip up! I love the overview, thanks for this. I will say that overcoming the lower level habits are the toughest because it feels like such a part of me, but a me I don't like. I so appreciate the encouragement here on T.com. I know I will make amazing changes both now and on into the future!!

Well this was a good review! I really appreciate the assignments. I have had a great cheerleader and accountability partner in my wife. We've been doing great and I do see everyday the change in me. On top of my own observations my wife has told me just yesterday how much more she enjoys my company since we have begun this transformation! I have to say if I thought for a second that I was a positive thinker before we began, now I KNOW I am and I won't look back! Looking forward to the next assignments! Jake~>out

I am on the path of my journey. I am celebrating success and freedom. I am celebrating success and progress. I have set down the burden, and I am finding this path of the journey to be lighter and healthier. These past 4 weeks have been energizing, focused and on purpose. Today I renew my committment, energy and focus of purpose powered life transformation. Thank you again. Jeff

I have read and done all of the assignments thus far. I have journalled everything up to this point. I feel that I need to work some more on my thoughts and beliefs. I have been doing the work, but I feel I need to believe that it will work for me. When I don't see any results, I get discouraged, but not to a point of quitting. I wonder if I will ever change, even when I do focus on the postives that I have made. Like self discipline, endurance and energy. I am proud of the healthy changes I've made in my life, I just wish my body would catch up :) I will keep focusing on where I want to go and do the work it takes to get there. One day I will get there!

I have been trying really hard to stick to all of the "rules", I'm on my BFL CH1W2D1, and based on all of the things you mentioned above, where I should be, what I should be doing and feeling, I think that's right where I am. And excited to move forward...

Bill, once again thank you for what you do. Your intentions are amazing! It's taken me a few weeks to do this assignment because of falling off the wagon for about 2 weeks. Much guilt and embarrassing feelings came to surface. Thankfully, I got back on target and I can honestly say, RIGHT NOW, I am doing wonderful for myself. Now that is true progress for me. In past if I made a mistake on a new health program, i would have caved, but not this time. I'm truely understanding how this is a lifestyle and that I am not perfect but just always go forward. I am so happy right now. Reason being, after my 2 week "detour" I was welcomed here with open hearts and loving support. Started the HHC and haven't looked back since. Workouts are going great, nutrition is going great, staying humble and learning. Something I really need to focus on is my environment. Have to keep healthy food in the house, and very minimal if any treats for the kids. We will all benefit from this. Thanks again lovely friend!

I absolutely love where my state of mind is right now! To be honest, I don’t even remember the last time I’ve been this happy with life, friends and family! I recall how frustrated I was when I initially started my transformation. I was making good physical changes, but my internal growth was seriously lacking. I knew I was “broken” and “worn down” in so many different ways….and to say the least really needed some serious spiritual fixing! Coach Stoney read that blog and was quick to remind me about my assignments. I think that’s when my real internal transformation took off. Just today I had one of my medical attendings let me know that she’s seen me come up against some serious roadblocks, but has been absolutely amazed and happy at how I’ve continued to move forward and grow during my challenging past three years. She told me something that really hit hard, she said “David, all that struggle you’ve been through these past couple of years will help you give back to your patients in ways you can’t even imagine, just wait and see!” In addition, transforming has in so many different ways, helped me cope with life after my father’s passing, especially considering I wasn’t doing all that well before his cancer dx. How I’ve managed to now be months away from getting my long awaited M.D., and be a leaner/healthier individual that has such a beautiful happier perspective on life…..literally amazes me! To say the least I’ve grown in so many ways and honestly feel that the combination of my faith, and family/friends, would not have been complete without the great people I've connected with, as well as the inspiring stories I’ve come across within the transformation community.......extended family!

This is beautiful prose. This is worthy of being read every morning when I get out of bed for the rest of my transformation. As far as where I am at, I feel good. I'm noticing subtle changes in my outlook on things. I feel gratitude creeping into my life. I feel physically healthier, and I am losing weight. I'm being more proactive, eating getter, and spending a fair amount of time evaluating where I'm going. Certainly progress.

I've done all the assignments 1-10. I went so far as to answer every single question posted above in my journal and the results were interesting. I am doing better in some unexpected areas and on par with what I thought in others. I don't think I'm really doing worse than I thought in any areas, which is nice. It was a great assignment for seeing concretely where I need to focus more energy. My eating and exercise have been quite sub-par. It is definitely where I am struggling. The eating is flat out my own doing, but my exercise has been restricted by my doctor. I was so disappointed by not being able to workout that I threw the baby out with the bathwater with regard to my food. Although this assignment didn't show me that I am off food - because I was well aware of that - it DID allow me to see what the pattern was in getting to that point. I gave up in - not completely, but enough to not make the physical progress I could have.The really cool thing is that I am not beating myself into the ground about it. It is an awareness and an area for improvement - as simple as that - and I can deal with that! ~Christin

Wow. I really am transforming! I have been doing really well with working-out and eating healthy, as well as listening, learning, and encouraging others. The thing that stuck out to me while reflecting on this assignment is that I need to work on actually being the change. It has been a fairly vague concept to me until the past couple of days, and although I recognize what I need to do, I'm still working on being completely aware in the moment. I have to be more deliberate in being the change, and I'm definitely going to make that a goal for the weeks to come!

Hey Everyone. Time to reflect and review. It`s nice to have a bit of success in life - sometimes hard to see or experience it on a daily basis. I have reached my 18 week goal in about 6 weeks and really happy. Down to 78kg - or at least I was, until this virus thing hit me ... but it`s okay. I can live with a little up and down - all part of life, I guess. But it is more that losing the weight ... the inner transformation together with circumstances in my life are all adding up to real positive changes in my life. I`ve done all the assignments up till now - all done without any real stress or time restraints. I love doing the exercises in the mornings - all part of my daily routine. I`m lucky that I start work at 10am which is great. The eating routine is going well too (apart from now) ... but hope to get back to the 6x a day as soon as I am up on my feet again. I`ve also been working on my next life goals - encouraged by my Facebook and T-Com friends. Feeling confident and accepting the stress which might be involved - but really believe that I can do this Life Coaching. Have great ideas and bouncing them off a few people. Thanks!!!! I love coming on the site and writing my blogs .... a great place to see what is happening in my life (journal) and what`s happening to others. I also get a lot of pleasure welcoming new people to the website - I try to do one a day and feel good in doing it. Giving something back. So important to me at present. My muscles are becoming more toned and even an incling of a six pack (under the years of fatty, junk food residue). My legs are looking good (my best part of my body) and the double chin seems to be residing (happy with that). Impressed that I am now lifting about 32kg doing the Bench Presses and curls using 2x 18kg - with the proper repetitions. This last month I`ve been adding a bit of bike riding with my family which has been really good. Then my karate on Fridays - got my yellow belt and working on my Orange - but I need to work on my reaction times and getting my hips to work independently to my upper torso. Not as easy as it sounds. This programme is a part of my life - and I know that I can do this. It`s easy to do - takes little realatively little time to achieve and this is going to be an ongoing part of my life, even after the 18 weeks. Thanks for reading this ... and have a great day. Antony

This time around I'm right on track. I've completed the assignments & the process seems natural to me now....I blogged about this today. It truly feels good to be taking care of myself as much as I do those around me.

I had to sit and think before I started typing- honesty is key to this and I have no desire to cheat myself out of that. This round in some aspects has been so wonderful because so many things have really become part of my daily routine- like brushing my teeth. Exercise is no longer an option for me. It comes natural- it is just something I have to do. I have been working hard for preperation of Denver. The physical work is there but have I been true to my eating that is the question? I allowed some built confidence to creep in at times and try to justify poor eating habits. Therefor I have not had the physical results I should by now. Today was great for me in reflection because it has also given me the opportunity to revamp my expectations of myself for my physical part and take it up a notch to get the results I need and want. The inner part of this journey has been an ongoing learning process for me. I have become so much more aware this time around, but have also put myself in some negative situations where I allowed others to bring me down. I had to step back and remind myself I had full control of that and how I allow others to treat me or what I chose to put myself around. I love the fact thought that every day I continue to learn and grow. I know I am constantly striving to be a better person. Being a teacher myself I have strong beliefs that learning is a continual process and is one of the very few assets in life that can never be taken or revoked. Tonight I am going to take some time to really visualize where, I was, where I am and where I am going- thanks for always keeping me on my toes Bill!

I just reserved my room in Denver! I have been training diligently for the 1/2 marathon for the past four weeks, working out, doing the assignments & continuing to dig deep within myself. When I read this assignment I felt a pit in my stomach, a feeling as if I could be going even deeper and expanding my comfort zone. If there is anything that I could work on more it would be communicating more with the community and being more active in supporting others. The last couple of weeks I have been on my own agenda and have felt very secluded, the great thing though, is that I am aware of it! No more sleep walking, no more quitting, no more I'll do it later. Although, I may not be at a complete 10 in effort and communication, I am still here. Yes! Doing my workouts, seeking to fill my mind and body with quality substances as well as moving to California and facing my fears. I feel blessed to have just read this assignment, to have a community like Transformation.com and mentor like Bill Phillips. So to all here, I humbly say Thank you and congratulations on becoming the individualized change that the whole needs to succeed. Together we can do anything, today is where we begin and continue. I look forward to encouraging you through my own transform as well as being inspired by yours. Ben

I have done all the assignments but I'm having a problem with consistency. I am still trying to be consistent with my assignment of losing my lowest habit that I don't do the continue to do some of the earlier ones like update the progress notes in my journal. I'm going to read this assignment again and print it to use as an outline to remind me of how far I have come and what I need to do daily. I am up date on the assignments but I feel like I'm trying to find one of those dreaded comfort zones. Having said all that I am really proud of myself for dropping 30 lbs so far and wearing all these clothes that didn't fit me a couple months ago. It feels so good!

I was doing well until about four weeks ago.......My honey of five years ask me to marry him...Yea!! We had a very short engagement, and my time and energy seem to be directed into preparing our small intimate wedding and reception. But I am back !!!! I am behind in my assignments, but am dedicated to catching up and continuing to the end. I did well on my work outs, but didn't eat as well as I should have. A few months back I did decide to join the Transformation Team to run the Denver Marathon. Friday, I ran a very slow 7.8 miles and felt very proud after I was all done. On a scale from 1 to 10 (1 being the worst and 10 being the best), I feel in the past 4 weeks I have performed at a level 7.......not good enough. Let's see if I can finish strong.

This has been a very significant journey for me -- one that I hope to continue forever. I have thought deeply about every assignment and have not only thought about the lessons, but have experienced them as well. I have so loved seeing people succeed in their goals and truly trusted that this process could work for all that engaged in the transformational journey. Somewhere along the line (around assignment 5, I think) I began to believe that I, too, could transform. It occured to me, around that time, that I was pulling so hard for people in this community... truly believing in them -- yet deep down inside I hadn't truly believed in myself. As soon as I really took it in that I, too, could transform, things just took off for me. I know I have just barely tapped the surface of all the transformation that is yet to awaken in me, and I awaken every day with such gratitude for this journey.

Another stroke of genius. This assignment is placed perfectly in the sequence to review, reflect and recommit to the process. I've found that for my initial program a short 10 week challenge works best. I like to see quick results and feel a strong sense of accomplish then move on to a greater challenge. I need to remind myself daily of where I've been and recognize the progress I've made so far. Although the scales don't show dramatic weight loss (5 obs in 5 weeks) I must remind myself that it was exactly my goal to let go of 1 lb per week. What HAS made significant change is the shape and tone of my muscles, my increased stamina and overall sense of well-being. My diet was pretty much all organic and composed of foods that set well with my body. I went through the process of eliminating wheat, dairy, flour, sugar, and meat (except fish) years ago! I've noticed an increase in my need for protein and so drink several protein shakes daily. Also I have found Kombucha Teas (the botanicals) and Bragg's Apple Cider Vinegar with Honey beverage both energizing and balancing. Lots of amino acids in the kombucha! My splurge on free day is typically a handful of dried mango or an organic dark chocolate bar (my body is super sensitive to junk food!). Post-its are splattered all over my desk and mirrors reminding me of my purpose and commitments! I have to do that! I love the "progess not perfection" motto. I will start a blog on my page to highlight my progress. Too easy to forget the subtle shifts as well as take the giant ones for granted. Also I will continue to comment on other's blogs as I know we all appreciate a good word of recognition and encouragement. Those who have gone before, done the work, set the example, paved the way have all made it much much easier for the rest of us. Thank you,Bill, and thank you fellow transformers for your ongoing courage and self-love. Janet

I honestly can say that I am trying right now to cram reading in all the assignments i have missed. I have been aware and actively doing 90% of the exercise and diet, but I have not been actively taking photos and writing stuff down. Today my friend who has not worked out with me in about 2 and a half months said to me that I look slimmer and stronger and my physique has changed for the better. That really made me feel good; as i see myself every day and was not sure it was really working. I am now excited to post my latest pictures soon. Bills' phone texts also bring a smile to my face and help me to think about the small changes that result in big dividends. Thanks to my friends family and this great challenge.

I have made such incredible progress through this journey and yet, I find that I still have a ways to go. I've gotten behind in asisgnments, in caring for my parents, but am jumping back in with both feet and am back with them now. I know that this process will never end and that I will forever be a work in progress and I love that! This assignment is a great "check in" on that progress. Diane

I took a detailed look at this assignment. I really want to be as honest an open as possible with myself and this is what I came up with: T1. Know Thyself, Where Thy Stand and Where Thy is Going: I have taken an honest look at myself, am aware of the need for improvement and have definitely accepted responsibility for my condition. I have a vision of where I am going but have been a little sloppy about reminding myself where I started and where I’m going each day. My challenge: I have become discouraged, because I am not seeing the physical results that I had planned for. I took some photos and checked the scale at 9 weeks. I look the same as I started and the scale has barely moved. THIS IS VERY DISSAPOINTING SINCE I HAVE WORKED SO HARD!!!!! However, I have acknowledged the fact that I have had some metabolic issues that would make my program more challenging. I have been counseled on this by medical professionals in the past and followed their advice in a very slipshod manner and then gave up. I realized that I need to “tweak” my plan according to the guidelines I have been given in the past, such as eliminating wheat, white flour and dairy products from my diet and stop saying to myself “This is too hard”. My system just does not handle certain foods well even though they may be healthy for some. I have also had some blood work done recently to make sure everything is ok. T2. Yes – I am getting to the gym 4 to 5 times per week and I plan all my workouts in advance. I work on varying them as much as possible. T3. Yes – see T1. T4. Yes – but have been a little sloppy with this for reasons stated in T1. T5. Yes – but doesn’t look like I am going to reach this particular goal by the time I set. See T1. T6. Yes – but still stressing myself out over this. T7. Absolutely – I keep a friendly distance with toxic personalities and I work on detoxifying my mind as well and working on eliminating foods that are not right for me. T8. Yes, and this is one of the most challenging areas of this whole process. T9. Definitely!

OOOOOhhhhhh I love this one. I smiled the whole way through and found myself saying 'yes', 'yes', 'yes' as I read through it all. I have made changes, thought I'm not nearly done, I am on task, I am progressing. I love it. I've had a few minor setbacks...i.e. no computer at home for a few weeks, but I was able to check in quickly from work, read up on what's going on, I even printed out my assignments and did them on paper so I could type them in my blog when my computer came back on. This is why there are multiple posts by me on the same day. Just catching up :) Thanks for this opportunity to check in. I think printing this out and reading them daily will be a great motivator. Thanks for these opportunities! ~Gina

I am literally IN the process. I mean, it’s no longer a process for 18 weeks. It’s how I live my life. I make time for self-reflection almost every day. I am more aware than ever of my ability to inspire others. I make conscious choices. I own my actions. I lead others to an improved quality of life. For this current 18 week challenge, my status is: I am completing assignments and haven’t missed any. I’m trying to look at each one a little differently than what I did during Round 1 so that I challenge myself to think from a new perspective and more deeply. In fact, I’m giving them more thought this time around. I am on target with my workouts! I take one day of rest each week and am currently doing 4 days of cardio to and two days of weights so that I can focus on training for Denver. I’m doing good with my nutrition and unhealthy food continues to be my biggest challenge. I do good 80% of the time. I am meal planning, no junk in the house, and pre-preparing as many meals as possible. A goal I set for this challenge was to maintain while I was recovering from major surgery. I thought I would have to work hard for it but it wasn’t that bad…because this is my lifestyle. It’s not an event. It’s how I live. I stuck to my nutrition during recovery. I walked almost every day. And I did my workouts either on t.com or by working towards my dream of owning my own company. I feel great about where I am in the process.--Vicki

Hi Bill, I really took some time and closely looked at this assignment. The result? "The Longest Blog in the History of the World." :) I dared not copy it here, as it's really introspective -- and LONG! If you want to see it, it's on my blog - Day 78. I felt, when I initially responded here, that I had not done enough with this assignment. Now, I feel really ready to move on. Thank you for everything!! Kimberly

After all these weeks.. I can say that I have completed and stuck to all but one assignment. #2. I don't know why. I was an athlete for years in my life and would have thought that the food would have been harder for me. I need to take the big step to allow/give myself the time daily to complete the exercises. I know that I feel great afterwards so why am I not doing it. I guess I haven't completely surrendered to myself and my control issues. I need to, and excercise by walking with my children, etc.. but really using weights, etc. haven't happened. I WILL work out before I go to bed tonight and again tomorrow, and the next day!!! I can do it. Thanks for the all but subtle reminders that it is okay to be proud of where we are, but that we can always improve and learn more. Here I go!

I'm 29 days away from my end date and I have no idea how I'm gonna reach my goals. I realized today that I haven't followed through on some things, really simple things, like reviewing my goals daily. I'm thinking if I would've been reading over my goals each day, by now I'd be very close to meeting all my goals. With only 29 days to go, I have got to refocus I have made a lot of headway over the last 14 weeks, but I've neglected a lot of things that center around improving my relationships. ~Brandon

Wow. I am really doing this. I knew in my gut that I would do it this time - *AND* i'm still kinda surprised that I am hanging in there- because this is really hard work. It's like I've been given a new pair of eyeballs and a new data processor to filter life through. I continue to develop in every one of the assignments - some more than others. I've had really clear guidance from Penny around the exercise and nutrition - and i've allowed those two aspects of the challenge to be a source of positive structure. The inner work has been more challenging for me - lots of emotions, lots of resistance, lots of confusion... But I'm finding (over and over) that when I sit down and really drop in to what's going on for me, there is such a raw-ness to the fire that burns in me - it makes me sob- and i realize with great tenderness and gratitude that I am changing from the inside out. It's quite scary for me at times- to be growing in ways I'm unfamiliar with- but as I look around me on T.com, I remember that many others have walked the path before me - and just as many are walking it with me right now. ------- I am on week 14, but (obviously) only on assignment 10. I've been bunched up about this and noticing a deeply ingrained habit around obligation, duty, and "supposed to"- after talking with Penny tonight, she helped me understand that the best thing I can do at this point is to do each assignment with my whole being - give it the time it needs, but also keep the positive pressure on. and that I don't need to do a whole bunch of assignments at once and get caught up - that would actually be sort of silly and defeat the purpose. so now, I am going to return to taking it one assignment at a time - with a renewed commitment to practice my relationships with positive pressure.

This round has been bittersweet for me. I got good results last round and I think I was starting to fall into the trap of doing the same thing to get the same results, i.e. "insanity". I have stuck to my workouts and eating (even succombing to Free Days) and I have been completing all of my assignments. I have reviewed my goals repeatedly and reached out to others. The problem is that I feel the same that I did during Round 1 because I am performing the very same behaviors, positive and not-so-positive (self-doubt, comparisons). This is an awesome assignment for me right now to take a step back and decide to dig a little deeper. If I truly want changes, then I need to truly change some behaviors. Doing the same thing and expecting different results only ends in heartache and I have done enough of that in the last 10 years to know better. I am making a commitment to give more, do more, and be more courageously and expect my personal best each day; hence, "Leave nothing on the table" with my Transformation. Certainly I have grown since last round, and my best this round is better than my best last round so now I intend to use it!

Assignment 10 and still her it feels great I love to quit things when they get hard or I start to feel to good so this is progress. I type two words a minute and I still blog I don’t know a lot about getting around the site but I will learn all I know is each day I am learning more and caring more for others I have also been doing things when I don’t feel like it. I will print this assignment out and read it daily.

I have worked on all of these assignments and think they've all come at critical times in my challenge. I enjoyed reading this assignment because it has shed light on issues that I can tighten up on. I am on "Be in the Right Environment" right now, I've been changing my environment by listening to music with less violence and rage so that it does not affect my soul voltage.

Where am I in the process in Round two? In Round two I am learning that I need to continue to daily MAKE choices to keep my self promises and to GIVE MYSELF my best daily. I am WORTH the Change...I am WORTH valuing...I am WORTH nourishing! I am WORTH IT! I still need to embrace how INCREDIBLEY WORTH IT I AM! I have found my worth but I need to remind myself to continue to MAKE that INTENTION of daily worth and compassion toward Myself. To not be so perfectionistic with me. I am proud of myself! I am free of the judgements of others. I am free to BE ME. My mission is to be FILLED with GODS LOVE to a deeper LEVEL and to shower that to all that receive GODS LOVE. I am on a mission toward health! I desire to look like Tosca Reno and to BE the healthiest I can be! I am PROUD that I ran six miles today for the first time in my life. I am stronger then I think at times. I am SO blessed and so grateful for ALL that GOD has blessed me with including this community! I am in a new path now a different path that path is without my mother in my life. That nest was taken and God has given me WINGS and taught me that I can FLY. Taught me to BE ME and not worry much about what others think of me. I am a PEARL and I just want that pearl to continue to shine. I love being here to help others toward health as well it really Blesses me! So in essence I am continuing to learn to WORTH my body forward! VALUE myself and my workouts and choose to NOURISH myself in all aspects of my life. Thankyou for the assignments BILL and JOY that I receive from being with this wonderful community! LOVE YOU ALL Shari

Assignment #10 - Reflect and Review Where I stand? I stand healthier and stronger and more energetic than I did a year ago. The eating and exercise is a lifestyle now...I can occasionally skip a workout or occasionally eat off plan but the balance is perfect for me for the rest of my life. My purpose is to continue to let God work through me however He chooses...loving my family and friends, giving my time where I can to church and community and to continue to be a part of Transformation to help others accomplish what I have here. I continue to incorporate deadlines and timelines as that is what works for me. I have been training for half and full marathons for the last 10 plus years (starting at the age of 40). Right now I am only doing halves but at leat 2 a year...it was Delaware this past spring and now Denver 51 days from now. My biggest long term goal is to run a half marathon (or full) in all 50 states. I am about half way there. I completely understand progress not perfection...God isn't finished with me yet and never will be...old habits pop in their ugly head from time to time...but the progress I have made always outweighs any small set backs. Living in "the world" can be challenging...a world of overindulging in so many areas...food...drink...material things... Transformation is my healthy environment...my comrades all united on the warfront against unhealthy eating. My kitchen is full of things that I need to stay on path...even more equipped now with green shake materials...raw vegie concotions...beans...whole grains...I also keep some things around my husband enjoys...which while at times can tempt me...for the most part I no longer desire. I know I am my own worst enemy...I have romanticized wine drinking and cocktails too much over the last 30 years...very much a lifestyle I have lived...But I have grown a lot in this area as well...I am conscious of the ill effects it can have...and so I am making progress...I hold a vision in my head of being free of this occasional indulgence...but it is still in my life to some extent. Progress not perfection. Always a student....of the bible...reading books and magazines...listening to others sharing their wisdom on this site and in my "real" life...I would like to go back to school and take some various classes...I am 53 and I am not ready to be done learning...I might become a Body Pump teacher...or a Yoga instructor or take some computer classes or photography classes...or art classes...or if a program is developed through Transformation that Bill mentioned at one time a training program to teach you how to be a coach and guide for others...these are skills I would love to learn...also I might want to do something with nutrition counseling...I have so many curiosities and hopefully many years ahead of me to explore any or all of these areas. Plus traveling...theres a whole world out there to explore. I feel I am on track through this point in the assignments....where I need to focus my energy now is to complete the next 3 assignments over the weekend to catch up...I got sidetracked with a very last minute 35th reunion planning situation...which thankfully I (we)decided to make it a 36th and hold off a year. So now I can focus my energy better here...I have 4 weeks until the BFL cruise and 5 weeks until this 18 week challenge is finished...and 7 weeks until Denver....that is a whole lot to think about and plan ahead for. How exciting life can be. Susan

All right...I have read through this again and a few things you daid, Bill really stuck out to me. Have a vision of where I'm going...I do. And I read it often. I can see myself in my cute jeans and fun, little black tee shirt. Very cute! I also so myself shining brightly ready to help those around me feel good about themselves, too. I love how you reminded me I will never be perfect and that's okay! I AM looking for the progress I'm making rather than whether or not I'm perfect. I make a point of posting these types of things in my Blog and share with my group. I REALLY loved this statement...Transformation is as much about building a happy, positive life as it is about having a healthy body. Didn't get this last Round...but boy, it is screaming out of me this time around!! I have had some major "A-Ha" moments this Round that are truly Transforming my spirit...my attitude!! Very good stuff!!:) I do visit here everyday...usually 2 and 3 times. This round I make a point of stopping by and reading others blogs and profiles. I'm learning so very much!!! This time around I am doing the assignments when I'm alone in my home office. I read the assignment out loud and really give myself time to think about them. Also I"m posting them here and in my Blog. This is the end of Week 6 for me and I'm learning and growing and oh, so GRATEFUL for T.com!!! Les

okay, i'm going to level with all of you out there...i'm in week #17, and i'm finally getting around to completing my assignments...i've done the first 8 assignments pretty much on time, but then i haven't done any since... i just did #9 and now i'm on #10... but the good news is that i have stuck with my healthy eating and working out...i am in shock and awe of the results i'm getting this time....i have entered about 8 body for life competitions and completed 3 with amazing results and i've got to say that my results this time are better than all of them in the past... so i have about 10 days left in my 18 week journey as i am writing this... yes, i have slacked off on my assignments, but i'm here to do them now...life is good, and i've learned not to beat myself up over missing these assignments...just to make a valiant effort to get them all done in the next 10 days.... johnnybartender

As I read this, it put me in tears because I had one thing after another happen to me last week that I took all the progress that I have been making and threw it in the garbage for 4 days and ate whatever I wanted and didn't matter how much. It tears me that I let the neg energy gett me like that. It is so easy. I took Monday and Yesterday to regain my thoughts and think about what am I doing. I preach about not letting anything get in your way of your health and I just did. Here I am on my way to my final goal and I now took it in the wrong direction. Now that I have had a few days to regroup and put it all together again. I can take my energy and put it back in to reaching my goals. I feel good body mind and soul and ready to get on the wagon and continue what I started and I am not going back to what I felt this weekend. i wont let it affect anything health wise. My exercise is good and my food will not get off track like that again. So where am I in this process. I am going to take tonight and thinkabout and write it down and tomaroow or later tongiht I will spill it from the heart of where I feel i am in this process. I am still heading towrds my goal i just had a little set back but have gotten myslef out of there and back into the swing of things. Thanks for all the great things you do. This assignment by far is going to be the hardest for me. It really touches my heart because I have come such a long way and refuse to ever go back to that old me. and the process of doing it has been the most important. It has been hard and challenging but has taken me and friends to a whole new level of fitness and health.

So . . . I'm on week 18, but on assignment 10. This is perhaps why I have only achieved half of my goals! Anyway, progress not perfection, right. I'm going to do one of the remaining assignments every four days, and should be finished with transformation in a little bit over 30 days. Behind schedule, but not giving up!

I know exactly where I am now. I am not perfect nor will I ever be. Am I okay with that? I believe I am. I guess with age comes wisdom. I realize my limitations and have made peace with it. I realize what I can expect to accomplish at age 53. I accept that physically I can no longer expect my body to be that of a 25 year old. What I have learned is to be the best I can be. I feel better on the inside now than I have in years which I feel will add years to my life. I am starting to see a better me in the mirror but I still need improvement with my discipline. I am now making it a daily habit of visualizing how I want to see myself both on the inside and out. I am very much aware of where I started when I began my journey. I was 249 lbs, on high blood pressure medication, recovering from prostate cancer surgery and very much depressed and mentally unstable. I had just about given up on life. Now I see how my transformation is unfolding. I have a new plan for my future and I am looking forward to greater accomplishments. Am I perfect? Absolutely not, and that’s the beauty of it all. I do feel pretty darn good about myself these days. I do find I have more to smile about and a whole lot less to worry about. Each day as I travel to the gym I thank God for blessing me with good health, a wonderful family and a good life! I have always cared about my health and wellness. Although my Dad was a heavy smoker and died of lung cancer I never smoked, or used hard drugs. When I was in college I did drink a beer occasionally and enjoyed the taste but gave up the habit when my first son was born. I have always been involved one way or another with sports and exercise whether participating or coaching. I’ve lifted weights since I was around 14 years old. Although my strength is not what it used to be I am still very strong for my age. I exercise every day except Sunday and try to incorporate cardio and weight training together in each workout. I usually work out first thing in the morning around 5:30 pm for at least an hour and a half. I realize that the more I exercise the stronger I am both mentally and physically. If I am away from my routine for more than a week I notice my joints begin to stiffen and become sore. I do exercises that work best for me and my physical makeup because it makes my workouts enjoyable which in turn keeps me consistent with my routine. I keep my food choices simple so it is easy to keep up with. I am a big fan of the protein shake. It’s fast, simple and quick to prepare. I eat well- balanced meals that include quality proteins and healthy carbs. I also include fruits and vegetables with at least three of my six daily meals. I drink at least six glasses of water each day even though I am not a big fan. I will on occasion drink a diet soda but have cut back to around three a week. Early in my transformation I found that a full-blown free day did not work well for me. I will however indulge in a free meal no more that once a week. Usually the one free meal is all I need to satisfy my cravings for the bad stuff. I find that eating healthy also creates a healthy mind and keeps me focused on my goals. The primary reason I started my transformation was for the concern my family had for my health. Once I could see the positive changes I was making I began to do it for lots of other reasons, but mostly because of how it made me feel. I feel empowered when I stay on track and work hard. It gives me a sense of accomplishment and purpose. I stay focused by keeping connected with my daily accountability group. They inspire me to be persistent. I offer support to those who may be struggling which in turn gives me a lot of internal satisfaction. Just like when I was in college, project deadlines motivate me to complete task in a certain time frame. It’s also hard for me to stay focused without some kind of motivation factor built in. If the pay off is greater than the work required then it makes it much easier to stay motivated and complete the task. I feel a great deal of satisfaction when I complete something I have started which was the case after I finished round one and sent in my packet. Being awarded a co-champion after round one supplied me with a great sense of accomplishment. This gave me the motivation and momentum to continue on into round two of my transformation journey. As I stated earlier I accept that I am not perfect and I know I will never be. I can however strive to always make positive progress in many areas of my life. Life is a learning journey so I will remember all the progress I have made in 53 years of life. I realize the power the mind has over the physical body therefore I will visualize in my mind the improvements I wish to make. I will also clear my mind of any self-defeating or negative thoughts that can hold me back from making steady progress. I will acknowledge when I make improvements and be grateful for what I have accomplished and where I am in my journey. I’m aware that temptation is all around me. I have the power to make the right choices regardless of my environment. Peer pressure can sometimes be as hard for adults as it is for children and young adults. By carefully implementing pre-planned strategies into my daily routine I will arm myself with the discipline needed to stay on track and stick to my goals. I will keep healthy food available at all times so I’m not left without options. I will stay connected with my accountability group each day where I will receive the support and inspiration I need to stay strong and focused. I can’t control every environment but I can control my own. I will build a positive environment inside my home that will support the changes I am presently making. In the beginning I realized that it would be a struggle to overcome those internal demons that keep my thoughts clean and focused. I have overcome many bad habits but still need work in other areas. If I plan on making my transformation a permanent one I will need to overcome these bad vices and habits that hold my progress back. To be successful I will need to confront these issues and work hard to overcome them. I realize that one of my worse enemy’s is myself. I will focus on positive things and do away with the negative thoughts. I will look at adversity as a way to grow and learn which will in turn give me more wisdom. I realize I will never know everything that could possibly be learned in one lifetime, however, I will continue to absorb as much knowledge as I can each day. I have always been a good listener and recognize that when I listen I learn. When I was growing up my Dad would always remind me to listen and learn. I will help others by sharing my experiences with them, which will help me become a better teacher and example. I appreciate all those who have helped me along the way and I will remember to thank them as much as possible. What I get from T.com is a camaraderie with others trying to improve their lives as well. It heightens my awareness that I am not alone and that others are struggling with issues much like my own. I watch listen and learn from others. Their stories inspire me to continue making changes and progress. I win regardless of whether I am named a champion or not. I am aware that the reason I joined T.com was to improve my health and life. I have come so far in just 26 short weeks and believe my story has helped motivate and inspire others. I feel great about continuing my journey to become a better me.

I'm in the process. I've missed 15 workouts overall due to other health issues and personal family illness and I"m starting my 10th week (so that's only 75% follow through). I am still having trouble eating small meals more frequently and am still stuck at 4 medium to large sized meals and lots and lots of water, so I know that's part of the reason I'm not putting on muscle mass because I"m not being diligent about improving my metabolism by eating more frequently and in smaller amounts. I've done all the assignments. In my personal non website related healing work I had an amazing breakthrough this week which is from doing lots of yoga and stretching as well as osteopathy, massage and acupuncture. The last time I got needled in one of the muscles in my back that were very badly damaged because of the accident I actually was able to bend the needle because my muscle was so tight, and every time the acupuncturist put his hand near the needle my back muscle would contract and I would flinch and be in excruciating pain. On Friday I was able to get a needle in this muscle and not only did the tightness of the muscle not bend the needle but as I was bracing myself for alot of pain from the muscle I was totally amazed to find that I didn't cry or need to flinch because the pain was about half of what it was say 6 weeks ago. So I'm changing and transforming and that is fantastic!

I am adding these entries to my own blog section. I stumled BIG time thist past week. Check out and see.

I have been working on these assignments, one week at a time, to the best of my ability. I have given each one my full attention, and have not looked ahead at the next one until I felt I had really addressed the previous one. What you have written here is so eerily similar to my journey so far -- I am amazed at the "predictability" of this journey!!! I felt like I could easily read every word of it and mean it! Amazing! It is amazing to look at how far I have come, and I am very excited to see what "gifts" await, as I unwrap the future assignments! Everything has changed...and yet, there's still MORE to come!!! What I would like to include here is a few blog notes written just before I took a look at this assignment. Essentially, this process -- exactly as you have spelled it out in this assignment -- had taken me to a place where I felt I needed to rewrite my "purpose" before I could move on. Here is what I wrote in my blog: Days 65-66 (Updated "Transformation Purpose") As I move on in this journey, my transformation “purpose” is definitely changing, as well. This journey started with a need to survive - to prove to myself I could “win” at something, to “fight back,” and to “overcome.” I felt I had to live up to the tenacious fighter that has lived in me as long as I can remember. I carried that fighting spirit as a badge, of sorts -- and yet, it was killing me on the inside. My journey started in a very self-centered manner...it was all about me. I was full of fear, ego, and concerned about the “wow” factor of whatever I could do in the physical arena, in terms of transformation. I wanted to be someone’s hero. Anyone’s hero. I realized this when I saw the huge need I had early on for affirmation from others on the website. I had a chip on my shoulder to prove some things to those closest to me, and needed to show-off a bit. I was dying (or had died already) on the inside, and was simply waiting to be buried. I had no particular reason to live, other than the need to care for my children. I had nothing to look forward to, except declining health, poor relationships, and an ever-increasing bitter attitude about my life. Speaking of bitter, the worst part was that I blamed my husband for everything wrong with my life. That’s not easy to admit, but it’s the truth. I felt very justified, and emotionally exhausted from the trials we have been through. I saw no way out. We had failed in business, our marriage, and parenting -- or so I thought. So, I figured if I could just prove to him that I could do something “great,” that he would see our marriage issues were his fault, not mine. Horrible attitude, now that I have some perspective on it...now that I have some healing from it. Somewhere along the journey -- oh, about week six, I felt very convicted about all of this, and about how my attitudes needed even more transformation than my physical body did. Fat can be ugly -- but ugly attitudes are much worse. What really got my attention in this was hearing Shane say (on the radio) something like he would rather trade his physical transformation than the way he now feels on the inside. That got to me. I had thought that if I just got the outside to look better, I would feel better. I thought people would be more attracted to me, as a person, if I was leaner or stronger. I thought my husband was repelled by my body -- although it never occurred to me that he would be repelled by the ugliness on the inside. Now I feel better on the inside, and I understand what Shane meant. The inside transformation is proving to be so much more valuable than the outside one! My eyes have been lifted off of my “issues,” my justifications,” and my “challenges,” and onto others...you, my family, the kids at Make-A-Wish, strangers in the store, Denise and Jonnae, my husband, Schweetums, old friends, hurting people reaching out here for the first time...the list goes on and on. There is not enough room to list you all -- so many people that I think about, and whom I have been affected by in such a positive way! In order to serve others, I must take care of myself...and I will. Yet, taking care of myself is not the end anymore. It’s the means to serve others. When others tell me, they cannot “let go” of old pain, I say, “Yes, you CAN!” And I cry with them, and share with them how it’s happening in my life. When my friends call and tell me they cannot go on, I say, with complete assurance, “Oh, yes you CAN!” And then I can tell them why I am so sure about that. My purpose now is about how God can use this miracle in my life to serve others. When I marvel at the story of how Jesus multiplied the loaves and the fishes, I am so clear that He did the miracle, and the disciples brought the ingredients. So today, I bring my fish sandwich -- my little fish sandwich -- and offer my life as a living sacrifice, for Him to use me for His purposes to help others. May it all be to His glory. My new transformation purpose: To become the best me I can be, in order to bring glory to God by helping others believe they can transform their lives, as well! ~ Thank you, Bill, for all you have given us through this site. The synergy from the people, the wisdom, the experience, strength, and hope, the soul voltage...it's all so wonderful. I remain so grateful! ~ Kimberly

I love what you wrote Bill and feel I am living much of what is written. I am walking in the wonderful feeling of freedom that comes with living authentically and not denying myself, my surroundings, or my actions. "Life" has "happened" as I've continued in the transformation, but I do not see them as off-track set backs- but the reality of living. I am proud of myself of living through the challenges and acknowledging them as part of living - not events that have set me back. I've learned to work through them and made adjustments to my fitness and eating regimen as those events are part of my experience and shape who I am. Its good not live compartmentalized. I would say that has been my greatest achievement thus far. I am accepting ALL of ME!

Reading this reminds me of the importance of reviewing the assignments whenever I complete them, rather than just doing them, putting them away, and never looking at them again. Now I’m inspired to print off all of my assignments and put them in my tcom notebook for daily inspiration. Right now I am discovering new things I can transform and improve in my life. I’ve stumbled upon a pretty big one this past week, and although it is somewhat painful (actually very painful….), I look forward to doing the work I’ve learned through transforming (reading, studying, writing, sharing, being open/honest, planning, praying, meditating, learning and teaching) to overcome this issue and become a stronger, happier and more helpful person. I appreciate the transformation process very much for giving me these guidelines for awareness, growth and change in life. Doing these assignments to examine where I stand gives me a clearer idea of which direction I’m going and the proper steps to take to move forward.

Where am I today? I am down in weight, up in strength, down in body fat, up in endurance. There are some wonderful folks I have met and been in touch with often. Our struggles are mostly the same. We learn a little each day on our own and through each other. One of the most important things I have discovered is that sharing challenges with others who are working hard too is more important than doing this alone. We share success and shore up those who need it. We are forgiving and caring because we know the efforts needed, we know the temptations, we know the distractions. I cherish those I have met so far and hope to meet some in Denver later on. Bless you all.

ROUND TWO: T1: Know Thyself, Where Thy Stand and Where Thy is Going I’ve learned so much about myself both in round one and in round two. What a beautiful and meaning experience to unlock important lessons with food that were never before noticed until I began this journey. Being aware in my daily routine, creating rituals, and honoring my process of mental/physical/spiritual change has really opened up my heart to evolution of the soul – and that has grounded me stronger and more profound than ever before. T2: Exercising Care for the Physical Form I’ve taken the necessary steps to ensure a successful regime of healthy eating habits, weight training, and cardio sessions. In committing to the routine, and establishing a pattern of positive behaviors I’ve seen great success on the physical form of transformation. T3: Feed the Body the Right Way I make healthy choices each and every day that ensure that my body is being fed with healthy foods to nourish and replenish the bodies need for quality foods rather than quantity & poor quality. Fast foods and sodas are no longer an option – and a distant, quickly fading, past lower level habit. T4: Know Your Purpose Knowing that I am here to present the world with my passion and serve my source with a passion for humanity and the evolution of soul has been such an uplifting and heart opening experience. I’ve truly evolved more in this second round of challenges than I could’ve imagined and had an abundance of blessings afforded me that have opened doors of opportunities never before imagined. T5: The Power of Positive Pressure Training for the Denver Marathon has really given me the drive to make my workouts more intense, train harder, and focus with the intent that something greater than myself will become of this journey – and what a powerful experience and journey to be on. This isn’t just about my journey but that of so much more – a soul cleansing, a rebirth, a community of like-minded warriors with a mission to make dreams come true – and in return have my personal goals met and far succeeded than originally planned. T6: Look for Progress, Not Perfection I learned early on in this challenge that relying on a metal object to dictate the course of my day, my outcome for the week would ultimately be the demise of the progress. With that in mind – I made a commitment NOT to stand on the scale until week 18 Day 7 of round two. I’ve seen great progress in my endurance, my physical changes, and my emotional awareness – and that is PROGRESS! T7: Be in the Right Environment This was and has been a key factor for me and my family throughout this journey. Making decisions the week prior (Sunday’s) on what to eat, planning, and then preparing the food for the week with our ‘grab-n-go’ concept has been a positive reinforcement of how great nutritional choices are the foundation and couplet to our exercise dedication. The family that eats well together, and works out hard together – lives longer together! T8: Know Thy Enemy SODA! I learned early on in this challenge round that soda was/is a trigger food for me. It is a gateway drug that leads to more detrimental food binging habits of my old/past lower level self. With that in mind – I quickly learned to deter from any types of soda and stick strictly with water, and tea – and Awaken Coffee! Stress! Who doesn’t know that stress is a huge catalyst to breakdowns or ‘flat-tires’ along the way. I’ve learned that instead of feeding it with food – I nourish it with a good healthy dose of exercise. T9: Always a Student This was a very powerful moment for me in this round. Chris Rile’s radio appearance on 8/13 really opened me up to a whole new level of awareness that I’d never imagined – and for that I will forever be grateful. Always being open to the lessons within our daily lives, challenges, means that we are forever evolving and that is what life is all about - evolution of soul – what a beautiful gift!

I have to say that I have definitly made progress. I am not as far as i want but in reality this is far as I have ever come so that is all I could want right. Onward. I need to focus a bit more on some of the assignments. My first 6weeks were awsome but then the summer came and I did great considereing we had either company or a trip every week for 8weeks aftere that. I am kicking it into high geer and reallly needing to focus I know on the mental right now. I am often being criticle of myself and easily discouraged. But when I look at where I am now after this last baby compared to the previouse 4 I am so far ahead in terms of physically and emotionally. I do need to get on the sight more consistantly and be inspired. I am everytime. I am amazed at the courage of these people, of all of us. It is great, what a great gift this is. I will get on more and realize that even though I haven't been perfect in all the assignments doesn't mean that i am not welcome, silly thought isn't it, so couterproductive. I will finish and i will grow stonger in all aspects of my life. Thank you.

I have taken a night and a day to consider this assignment. We are being asked to take a moment to reflect on our journey and ensure we have maxiumised the opportunities presented along the journey. The temptation is to sometimes race to the end point and not fully expereince all the joys and lessons along the way. So I can say upfront that I am going to go back and load the assignments onto my site 1 to 5 ...as many have been written in long hand a filed in my transformation folder.....I will do this before I complete any new assignments. But in taking this moment to reflect I offer the following self assesment. I feel I am taking the time to create space as I have written before to let the good stuff happen. A sign of growth has been my beautiful wife has started to notice the changes and has made subtle enquiries about the Transformation Community and the assignments...so last night I read this one to her. This evening Ali said we should go to the Denver Conference together next year...this is made my heart skip.....I am so excited. Within a work environment it can be a hostile environment, political manovering, media, competitors and all the usual issues with people, budgets and timeframes...but I am applying the same principals of good intent, doing the work and creating space (or having faith)....and it is working. At a physical level I am the lightest I have been since high school, strongest I have been in my life, fittest I have been since my Karate days and the most pain free in many years (back issues and surgery). So in a very short period of just over 6 weeks I can say it has been a wonderful journey. I will be stepping up the positive pressure over the next few months but it is done so with a sense of fun and anticipation... I feel very much loved and supported both inside and outside of this community. Best wishes Stuart

I never would have believed that i would feel this different and be this happy with how things are working out had i not tried this transformation. I have lost almost 20 inches off my body, i have tone i didnt have, i am growing spiritually, i feel closer to God and i trust Him more than i ever did. My lower back pain is almost completely gone (i still cant stand for LONG periods but a lot more than i could before) i feel stronger, i am happier with my appearence than i was before. I believe in myself and i know this time i am going to keep losing the weight and its because im not on a strict crazy diet. I am just eating healthy and enjoying my life. my hormones seem to have regulated and hopefully i dont need a procedure done that my doctor insisted on right before i started this transformation. that is huge for me! I can shop in a store that is local now! my fave store of all places! before i had JUST found i could get some cloths in that store to fit and before that i was driving between 2 and 3 hour away to get cloths to fit because i was just so big i couldnt get them in my size! most of all i take the time for ME, i take the time to do things that i wouldnt have taken the time for in the past. i take the time for exercise and i have more patience with my exercise.

I did not enter the Transformation to lose weight. Very honestly, I entered as an act of desperation. Beginning the first of May, 2009, my husband began coercing me to go to the gym with him and I would walk on the track while he lifted. A few months before, I fell into a subtle depression which would lift within a few laps and I would temporarily feel so much better. He encouraged me to begin lifting weights again and I told him if I were going to do this, I wanted to do it right and that I thought it was time to find Bill again. I dusted off our BFL book and within seconds, he found the Transformation website and I immediately became involved. I have not skipped any lessons although I need to pick up the pace. I have only missed three workouts in the past 12 weeks. I push the workouts very hard but have had to back off and start cross-training (swimming & biking) for the sake of my joints. I've set short-term goals and have run two 5k races (placing first in my age group) (55-59) in the second one. Last Saturday (8-8-09) I fulfilled a very long standing goal of completing a triathlon. To say that I am thrilled is an understatement! The first thing on my mind when I wake every morning is how I need to hurry and get ready before it starts warming up outside. This sounds crazy but my rest day makes me sad because I want to run or ride my bike. I know - I'm obsessed - but I am feeling so invigorated. I did not plan to lose weight but the doctor's scale shows I'm down about 6 lbs. In addition, since May, I have lost 2" off my waist, 1.25 off my hips, 1.5" off my thigh. Oh! and the coolest thing is the muscles that are popping out on my arms. But these things are all just bonus. What really matters to me is that my thoughts are under control now. My mind is not racing. The negative self talk has dissipated. The things that have tormented my mind for the past 37 years are fading. I am happy about who I am and what I am accomplishing but the best part is that I finally have peace in my own mind and I am renewing my spiritual relationship with Jesus!......... Procrastination has been a problem for me but I am working on setting priorities.......Oh - and one of these times I may call in to the Thursday Night show and tell you about how I am Being the Change in our town. It doesn't require any time; The results are just amazing and many people are clearly being affected...... Thank you to everyone!......Thank you Bill!.......It is so good to feel so alive, well and healthy.

Well, I am not a reflection of all of that if I am to be totally honest with myself. I have slipped and gotten back up. I started off great for the first 3 weeks, then hurt my back. I was put on restriction for any exercise for the next 4 weeks. It is now week 8 and I have barely lost 5 lbs. I have felt like giving up, but I am so unsatisfied with the way that I look. I have been able to walk this week per my doctors approval. I have put in 8 miles in the last 3 days. My diet is not as clean as I would prefer, but it very expensive to eat like is suggested when you have 4 people living on one income. I am even holding down a second job while my wife is in college. I work a minimum of 55 hours each week and it gives me very little time with my family. I am not whining just explaining my set of circumstances and my shortcomings. I must do better! I deserve better! I will just keep picking myself up when I fall.

After reading over the review, I realized how far I have come and how I am more conscious of my actions. I definitely will print this out and look at it daily to help me focus on my transformation. I have been doing my assignments regularly so I am on target there. I think I need to visualize more and see myself as a healthy, strong person. Nutrition is usually on track but I think I can still increase my water intake. What I am most upset about is my exercise. I was doing so well until my knee went out. Since I have been in alot of pain, I have been limited to upper body exercises and this has really slowed down my progress. Even walking has been difficult for me but I have tried to do what I can. I have been very depressed over this and almost felt like giving up. I am trying to just tell myself that it will just take me a little longer to reach my goals. I just want to have the pain go away and go back to my trainer and my exercise!! I am hopeful for the future and will not give up because I want to finish what I've started. I want to set a good example for my daughter who is starting her own transformation. Thank you to everyone who has helped me in this journey.

I have done assignments 1-9, in order, but have not done one a week, which was my initial plan. The thing that keeps coming to my mind, is believing in the process, and not worrying about the outcome so much. For me, this will be a key part of finishing strong. I am now starting week 13,and am very excited to finish strong. This is a marathon, complete with the challenging yourself vs. challenging others, and many people in a marathon take off too fast and are puttering along by the end! I have paced myself pretty well. and have had many success'. I still feel strong, motivated and am ready to finish T-1 in a sprint!! Keep going everybody!!

Assignment #10 REFLECT AND REVIEW T1 I am definitely a person who knows where I stand. I have searched within myself to find answers to what will make me happy. I have decided to love myself for who I am now as I strive to make the changes which will help me continue to grow into the person God intended for me to be. I am totally aware of my lowest level habit which is holding me back from a complete transformation. I think about it and work to overcome it on a daily basis. Boy do I have a vision. I see myself happy and healthy. I work every day to reach my goals by thinking, seeing and talking like I have already reached them. T2 My lower level habit rears its ugly head a little too often still…so I am working on letting go of my daily wine habit. I will not be satisfied until I figure out the answer to overcoming this habit. I know it is holding me back. I let it go and before I know it….it wiggles its way back into my life. I feel great about my exercise routine. I am training for the Denver Half….running a minimum of 1 hour and 40 minutes per week and increasing. I do additional cardio totaling 60 minutes per week and 2 strength training sessions per week. My exercise has become a total habit for me and I really enjoy doing it. I feel strong and fit when I am engaging in exercise. T3 I have a good grip on my food intake. I naturally gravitate toward the foods that I know nourish and energize my body. I rarely overeat. I try to eat regularly throughout the day to avoid getting too hungry. I still need to work on my lower habit of having wine. Because I tend to indulge in wine on days that are not free….I don’t take an official free day. I want to change this to no wine except on my free day. (I eventually want to eliminate wine from my life.) T4 I know my reason for starting the transformation but I need to reflect on it daily to strengthen my commitment. T5 I need to revisit my goals and timelines. T6 I do look for progress and not perfection. I have come a long way in the last 10 weeks and I have made a lot of progress. I have developed awesome exercise habits and I have learned to enjoy healthy, frequent meals. I have lost 19.5 pounds. I focus on those successes while working toward making even more positive changes. T7 I try very hard to avoid environments that are not conducive to my healthy lifestyle goals. I keep my kitchen stocked with healthy food and carry healthy snacks with me. I make an effort to be around people who have my same goals. I try to keep my mind focused on my healthy transformations intentions. T8 I recognize my lowest level habit and I focus on changing it every day. I know that my habit is not who I am…but something I need to change. I am grateful that I have the ability to change that habit. T9 I recognize that I still have and always will have a lot to learn. I embrace that fact. I want to grow and learn to be a better person for the rest of my life. I want to share my struggles and successes so that other people can learn from me. I appreciate the people who have taught me with their own life lessons so that I can learn from them. I am happy to see other people’s success stories because it shows me that I too can be successful. When I reflect back on the last 10 weeks…I feel so much excitement for how far I have come. I have made so much positive progress. I am so much happier than I was on June 1st when I took my before pictures. I have grown in so many ways. But, as I will for the rest of my earlthly days…….I still have areas to work on. 1. I will continue to work on overcoming my lowest level habit of viewing a glass of wine as a way to relax and have fun. I will visualize other healthier options of fun and relaxation. I will never give in to accepting that wine is okay on a regular basis. 2. I will focus on eliminating wine except on my free day and try to focus on how much better I feel mentally and physically when I eliminate it totally. 3. I will spend time daily reflecting on my reason for wanting to BE THE CHANGE;-) 4. My goals for the next 8 weeks are to lose a total of 16 pounds minimum (2 pounds per week). In order for me to accomplish this I will need to: 1. Follow my current exercise schedule which I have outlined. 2. Continue to follow my current eating plan. 3. Only have wine on my free day. 5. Each morning I will recommit to the three steps necessary to accomplish my goals. As I do this…I will visualize myself 16 pounds thinner at the end of 8 weeks.

I did all the assignments, I stuck on 9 for a while waiting to be able to talk to some champions, I never did...so I went over the people who I learn from daily, which is what I should have done to start with. I have all my goals, except for losing weight. I need to figure out how to get past my "stall". I am strength training, I am running, when I don't ride I have revved up my cardio to be sure that I am going to be able to run 13.1 miles. Last time losing weight was so easy and steady that I didn't even have to think about it. If anything, I am not eating enough calories now. I almost always get 6 small meals in though. I don't have too much more to lose and I look fit and healthy, I just wanted to take off 10 to 15 more lbs to be where I want to be and to make running easier in October. So, as an honest appraisal...I feel like I am making giant leaps in most areas. Fund raising is easy for me ...running is not. That is my challenge this time...running, I am doing it. I will walk/run. My road block is the weight.

I can honestly say that I am doing the assignments but taking to much time on doing them because of my busy schedule and then by the time i get home i am exhausted. With my exercise I honestly can say that is a lifestyle for me iand my eating is healthy but need help on slowing down and being consistent on mealplanning and using some meals on my eating for life book need some variety. But planning ahead is what i really need to work on. And my spiriuality is awesome.

I honestly can say that I'm starting to feel stronger in mind and in body. I know where I want to be. I have done all of the assignments so far. I used to be very active and athletic and I'm beginning to actually be able physically and mentally to get back to playing tennis, golf and do my aerobic dancing. I can't say that I don't have to push myself because I do; but once I get started I feel good about myself and get energized. As Bill has said, exercise is the best antidepressent. I'm a little disappointed that I gained a couple of pounds back but it might just be muscle. I know I don't always eat as I should because sometimes I do use my food as an antianxiety drug, but I'm working on that too. I'm trying to surround myself with only healthy food. The hard part is when my friends say, "Do you want to do lunch?" I have learned to say that I must eat healthy. My vision is to see myself living the rest of my life being able to do all the activities that I enjoy, and eating all the foods to keep me healthy. That's it. I want to live a long, happy, healthy life and be here to enjoy it with the people I love. Learning by oneself is hard, but when you have a support group where everyone shares their experiences and successes our burden is lightened. Thankyou all for sharing.

I have made progress during this transformation and am excited at the direction I am heading. I have encountered some obstacles and know that I can do better. I intend to keep moving forward and am grateful to be in such great company. Thank you and God Bless!

Someone sang a song some time ago entitled "The Way We Were." For some strange reason that tune came into my mind as I was pondering this step and my progress in T1. I used to be fat, lazy, selfish, self-centered, unthoughtful, disingenuous, shallow, addicted, undisciplined and frankly, embarrassed over who I had become. I was the way I was. I had come to accept it. As you all know, being in the right place at the right time is no coincidence. For me, on my dark night, a spark was struck when I serendipitously met Marty and Shane on this very website. I startled myself by signing up for the Transformation Challenge right then and there. I took my picture and painfully wrote a whole page about what I saw. But it was liberating. I could see who I could become. I thought of what George Eliot said: "It's never too late to be who you might have been." I began to work on the transformation steps. I have had a few perfect eating days. I have had peak performance workouts. I am progressing. I am learning and overcoming bad habits and bad character traits. I am becoming. Thank you Bill. Thank you friends. Truly, the way I was, is in the past tense.

I am proud to say that I have not missed an assignment. I have completed every single one. I know I am headed in the right direction. I'm beginning to realize that this isn't going to be about my weight loss for me...it's going to be changing mentally and emotionally into a optimist. I know I need to stop "needing" to feel stressed out," My temper has returned...not sure why, but I know now that I can handle this bump in the road and I will overcome it and the cool part is...deep down - I truly believe that - it's not just talk. I'm accomplishing my goals, I'm staying on track and increasing the intesity of my running and looking forward to getting back into my aerobics classes (sore knees). I'm so happy I came here. I'm excited and nervous to carry on from here, because from here on out - I have a feeling the REAL chages will take place...because they HAVE too. Love to my t.com family! Mel

I have followed all the assignments and can honestly see a big change already, even though it’s only been 4 weeks! I can say I’m about 95% right on target, (with a back and foot injury setting my lower body workouts, back presently). I appreciate this review, it helps to rethink everything. I can see that in the 4 weeks I have been following T.com, a much happier heart and soul. I am eating more timely and healthier, and planning my workouts. I envision my goals. I think more of others. I have so far to go, but also have come a long ways in 4 weeks. (rest of post on my page) -Terri

Always an interesting assignment and corect that the timing is impeccable! I enjoyed reading this assignment as it did remind me of how far I have come and how I am following 90% of this program to the "T". I have been doing the assignments and really been present when doing so. I could probably leave less time inbetween, but I am trying to keep on top of them and not get behind. I know where I am right now, and where I am going. Sometimes that is the hardest part of this challenge .. to train my mind that "I can have this goal"... I am excercising daily for at least an hour 5-6 days a week. I am eating nutritionally, and I have protected my environment. I dont have anything here that could take me off track. I have been trying to increase my protien intake daily, but I must stay on top of this. I have purpose and this is one area in which I could improve, I should be reviewing where I want to go and why each day and I will be more diligent about that. I do like the pressure aspect, but I must admit I dont think about that too much as I dont want to freak myself out. However that "finish date" is in my mind and I wish I was seeing more results in terms of weight loss. I have lost inches and feel better both physically and emotionally but I had hoped for more weight loss at this point. But I am just going to let the big guy upstairs control that part, and I will do what I can to stay on program so that he can do his work. I like the fact that there is a deadline as having a goal definitely helps. I guess this is where the "progress not perfection" part comes in... i have definitely made progress... and I am proud of that. I have quit smoking for over 10 months, I have quit smoking pot for 10 months now, I have continued to up my excercise and make improvements with my diet and nutrition, I have focused on my health and worked to improve that, I have been working on the emotional side by working a 12 step program as well. This whoe process has been a huge change for me. Know they enemy, I must always remember this. I tend to be quite hard on myself at times and I know this isnt good. Thanks for this reminder. I definitely feel like i am always a student in this process and like I learn something from someone every time I visit this place or talk with others about transformation. I will continue to be a sponge and soak up what I can, using whatever I can to help me on this journey. Most of all, I am proud of where I have come from and where I am today. I am even more excited to see where I will be in 9 more weeks... amazing Bill. Thank you and everyone here for your continued support. Cheers!

Half way check,i can't belive as far as a transformation,there's still 9 weeks to go.I look forward to the assignments weekly and am up to date.As far as how i feel ,like a million bucks,a new man.I have reached a large amount of my goals i had set.I am surprised at the changes,and how well "trust the process" and "perfection" really work,see ya next week .Doug :)

Assignment 10: Progress (Not Perfection) Report Hello Bill, I have delayed the completion of assignment 10 since last week because I’ve been struggling a bit and wanted to give a more enthusiastic, “perfect” report. Inspired by Chris Winters’ honesty and candidness and your encouragement to focus on progress not perfection, I decided to just give an honest account of where I am during week 9. I am on track. I have completed all 10 assignments although I could do a better job of reviewing my vision and purpose statements more regularly than I do. What am I seeing? A smaller clothing size; an emerging pattern of making positive choices about food when tempted to regress into bad habits; a willingness to ask for help and support from other people in the T.com community; more people through social interactions; more patience with myself and my progress; more Scriptures as I read them almost daily; more commitment to exercise (even when I don’t feel well); a reconnection to the part of myself that reaches out to other people by sending cards, writing notes, commenting on blogs and making phone calls rather than the pre-transformation self that was hibernating/isolating in house. What am I feeling? On many days during this challenge, I have experienced joy and optimism and have been able to re-frame my thinking in a positive light. I feel better in my body on most days…I especially feel less awkward and less clumsy as my body size has decreased. On other days, I feel tired, overwhelmed by the multiple goals that I have set for myself and just have to push through believing that tomorrow will be a better day. I have been feeling much more like the latter for the past week. I am waiting for biopsy results for my husband, getting closer to taking the Grad. Record Exam (a goal I set for this challenge) and my anxiety level has been higher than usual. The anxiety is contributing to some insomnia and the fatigue is really challenging me right now. It’s harder to exercise and study when I’m sleep deprived. I am a bit discouraged as I set improving my sleep hygiene as one of my goals and I had made some modest progress in establishing better sleep habits prior to this past week. I am taking action to resolve this problem and I am determined to keep moving forward. I have also felt the need to be gentle with myself this week…to take a step back, to catch my breath and to re-fuel. I have learned that any change worth having does not come easily and it’s often about taking two steps forward and one step back. Taking that one step back does not equal failure; instead it provides an opportunity for growth and serves as a reminder that it takes time to making lasting changes in my health and well being. Overall, I feel grateful to have found the T.com community and blessed by the support and inspiration that I have received.

I am so humbled by the progress that I have made already. Sometimes it is still hard to see that progress, but if I really take the time to think about it I know it's there. I'm learning to recognize where I have made a positive change in my life. I'm not moving forward as fast as I'd like too, but I'm much better at being "nice" to myself. What a blessing! I do feel like some things need to be tweaked from passed assignments. I am grateful for this chance of introspection, so that I know exactly where I need to work a little harder. I am still here though, that is the most important thing for me to remember (:

I believe I am on target, though wobbly "on". My exercise is still great. Approx 5 hrs a week of good strong exercise guided by trained professional people. As I go down through the "T" list, I feel humbly proud of how far I've come, yet see many weaknesses still. I have printed the list and have hanging beside my computer. I plan to go over it often, until it rings in my mind in a way that it will creep into my inner life more deeply. Because I am not overweight and have multiple food sensitivities, I have to adjust my needs and goals, but feel that I am on the right track. God bless you, Bill. Jodi (joleneo)

I’m 100% back on track for a week as of tomorrow. After slipping up during week nine and losing my sobriety I’ve realized that it’s truly about progress not perfection. It’s strange how things happen. I think getting off track during the previous week was a blessing in disguise. Assignment # 10 couldn’t have come at a better time for me. I had reverted completely back to my old self for a few days. I’m seeing great results in my physique and even better results with my mind. Keep on keein’ on Transformers. Jimmie

What a divinely orchestrated process this has been! So glad to see this review! I feel like I am keeping in step with the Spirit and making the most of my Transformation learning! If feels like I am finally getting more of my "footing" after a nearly 4 weeks of "self-orientation" and 2+ weeks inside my Transformation "challenge". I feel I'm creating some inner momentum that is beginning to be joined with some physical momentum. I'm excited to share more details in my assignment post in my ASSIGNMENT Blog section. . . . but I'm liking where I am at this time - though I feel I'm still in the very beginning of truly transforming myself!

I am on track and feeling fabulous!!!! I have done all of my assignments so far and have made a complete lifestyle change both physically and mentally. I am feeling great about myself and have lost 50 pounds in the process. I know that if I do not stay focused that I could easily fall off track so I am constantly reminding myself of where I was, where I am, and where I want to be. Thank you for helping me to see the light and make the changes that were greatly needed in my life.

Assignment #10 - I can honestly say - "I am right on track!" I learn from each assignment, from my accountability group, from past champions and future ones (in my book), from the community, blogs, video, radio shows and from myself. I have let go of the control issues and lack of patience I once had for results. I trust the process and am enjoying the benefits I feel every single day. Even when I have faltered (a little) I don't let myself down by bringing doubt or guilt into the equation. I get back up and keep going and I know I will finish this first transformation with a huge smile on my face - regardless of what the results may be. I am stronger physically, emotionally, mentally and most of all spiritually. I have the best support from my Father in Heaven, My family, friends and here at my T.com Family. I love it here! I am finding so much joy in the journey and I look forward to the second half of this transformation and all the wonderful things to come. Thanks, Bill for everything! YOU ARE AWESOME!

I am on target and was thinking about posting a halfway blog to cover how I feel about where I am after 9 weeks. Now I'm going to do it.:)

Amazing! I am right there! You are talking about me, aren't you???? I am pleased to discover that I am right where I should be. I still find myself doubting that I'll make it though. But, I try to stop that kind of "stinkin' thinkin'". I also have to admit, I've come much further in my personal growth than physical. I am on my way! Thank you, Carmen ;~)

I'm on track with the assignments, on track with the workouts...need a little work on the nutrition and water intake, dang that diet coke!! I am doing better in EVERY way and find myself smiling more for no apparent reason,which is the best part of all.

Assignment #10: I am half way through my 18 weeks, and I am so pleased with what I have accomplished so far. I have not done it alone! I have leaned on God, T.com, former champions, my accountability group, and my family & friends to help me throughout this process. I have changed physically & spiritually for the better, but still have a lot of work to do. I don't emotionally beat myself up anymore. If I stumble, I get right back up and keep moving forward. (usually I'd quit, feel like a failure, eat for comfort, feel more depressed, sound familiar?) I am so much more self aware of my feelings & those of others. My heart and hands are busy & focused on service. I am SO grateful for all my blessings and the ways I am succeeding. I know I have more to accomplish, but I see it as an opportunity to care for my "temple" body and nourish my spirit. Then, I can be more receptive to divine influence and LEARN LEARN LEARN! I have let go of "needing control", and I am enjoying this journey by not spending too much time focusing on what the end result may or may not be. I am stronger, inside and out, and I am just getting started!

Well at this point I am finished with the 18 weeks. I read and reflected on this assignment, but did not journalize it. Reflecting where I was and where I am is UNBELIEVABLE! I have achieved more from this challenge than just weight loss. I focused on he weight loss, but in reality the mental focus comes to mind more than than the physical. I lost 58 pounds in 18 weeks and feel like a whole new person. Positive instead of negative, Energetic rather than lazy, Motivated instead of Frustrated, Seeing the Good rather than the Bad. I can not believe the change in my life this has made. One collegue of mine mentioned some time ago about my negative words of defeat. I did not realize it and as I have transformed my words are of confidence and positive statements. I am truly amazed at the confidence in myself and the power of seeing the positive side of things rather than the negative. Putting things at God's feet tohandle and do my part of allowing Him to control those things I know I can not.

I am in a great place! I have been working hard to stay on track and make the changes that are helpful and helathful. I feel more confident, patient and happy. Gratitude, gratitude! At the end of 10 weeks I am making better choices and it shows - I am down 22 pounds!

No, I'm not on target. I've a long way to go before I am, but I'm a lot further along than I thought I'd be. I'm moving so much more during the day, (shocking to me). I am learning a lot about myself and the way I look at things (downright tramatic) and I am eating so much better than I ever have (astonishing). I don't believe in excuses, but I do believe in commitment, and I will keep going and I won't ever stop!

Yes i am on target but as mentioned in the previous post ..i had computer related problems and could not afford to get new computer so i decided to write all my assignments on paper then transfer online before the deadline

I'm on course with my assignments, I'm on most of the time with eating, I'm rockin' my workouts hitting 4 cardios, 2 lifts. This is season 2 of my transformation 18 week process. The weights slowly coming off this time. I had two big drops the first time, and I haven't hit one this time. I'm working more on my inner self, suffered some set backs that I couldn't control, some I could and let myelf slip up. But for the most part I'm heading in the right direction. I've made it back to Church for the first time in forever. I felt really welcomed there, like I was supposed to be their the whole time. Imagine that! So, I'm going to keep on keeping on, and change what I can change, and by the end of this 18 weeks, I'll be where I want to be Physically, Mentally, and Spiritually!

Taking the time to read past blogs and assignments has helped shaped my understanding of how low I was, how far I have come and how much work there is left to do. Assignment 10 was a great pause to breathe look in the rear view mirror and appreciate all that has come before. While reading the past assignments I was particularly struck by the amount and variety of other transformers that have stopped in and read my blog, offered advice and encouragement and left meaningful posts to help me on my way. This truly is a remarkable community. My plan for the assignments is to complete one a week and think about each assignment thoroughly and completely. I have not rushed the assignments, which in the past would have been my nature. You see, I have always been one that had a high need to complete, not a high need for quality. In the past, I would normally just whip through the assignments, pound my chest and say - Yes! I was through that process in no time -- life was a completion exercise. This process has helped me find the necessary depth and quality to make a profound change. Physically, I have seen the changes occur, belts are starting to show the results. I have more energy, more determination in exercise and my running times are dropping. Internally, I am more aware, in tune and focused - definetly progress here, not perfection. Still working on the "right environment" -- as with everything in my life I had lost focus and a sense of pride - that is starting to return. In summary, I am pleased with the look at Assignment 10 and the past weeks. I am encouraged by all who have gone before and walk with me, I look forward to deeper work and continued progress. All the best!

I can say without a shadow of a doubt that I am on the right track. Mission is a great word to describe this journey as well, this is exactly how I see it. Its so ironic the words that Bill chooses, and I know he picks them carefully. I have been going strong for 15 months now and everyday I tell myself that I have to be the change to inspire, help and motivate everyone around me. I want to get into personal training to help others and I know my story will definitely inspire, but I have to Be the Change. I must set the example for others to follow and I know I will succeed.

I am definately On track. I have slacked a little in posting in my blog on each challenge each week. I've been a couple weeks behind on posting, although I have followed my workout routine and eaiting healthy to a T. I figured I'd post when i had time to really get my thoughts across. I'm definately working on my accountability and trying to get everything posted each week as an encouragement to others just starting. With in the first 4 weeks my abs were really tightening up, I was hopping out of bed with more energy and noticed more energy throughout the day. I do notice some irritability at times and I think its due to just lack of rest, which is so important. So as I progress I am making adjustments to help out. I have had some slumps but someone comes along and leaves a kind comment or message of encouragement and I'm back up and running full strength. I use the Body For Life Journal along with this, I liked how it was laid out. And I was just noticing how far along I have come, time has gone by quick. I look foward to continueing the challenge and the lifestyle after the 18 weeks. The peace of mind, the change emotionally and spiritually. Thanks for another chance to reflect back on the transformation, definately a great outline!

i can say i'm on tact i lost 60 lb of body fat wich was my original goal but being over wieght for so many yrs some parts of me like my belly is still hanging, no where as much as where it used to be but never the less it is still there . though that doesn't discourages me it actualy makes me work harder on it

Hmmmm where am I in the transformation process? I have been doing the assignments, though perhaps with too much space in between. I have learned some things about myself that have helped me to not go down the same paths as in the past. I'm not giving up on myself this time, which is something I used to always do. Still working on the progress not perfection as I still want that perfection and sometimes feel if I use the progress not perfection mantra it can easily become a cop out for not doing my best. I am enjoying the t lifestyle and surrounding myself with others that are doing their own journey of transformation. I have been working on my relationship with my oldest son, although I often feel like a failure in that department...I want so much more for him than he appears to want for himself and my frustrations can very easily come out harsh and critical. I really need to improve in that regard. Reading this sounds negative, but I am really not feeling negative, I am doing well and can't expect huge changes overnight. Most days I am full of energy and look forward to my clean eating and exercise. I love coming here and seeing all the progress others are making. Each persons blog I read has it's own insight and nugget of knowlege to learn and grow from. I enjoy being a part of the transformation community, and do my best to set an example for my children and those I am close to. I am looking forward to continuing the process of inner growth and awareness, and shedding the fat that has been hiding me inside.

Great assignment. Good to take the time to review where I’m at and where I’m going. I started this challenge because I was tired of “good enough” and knew that I was capable of more. Now, before the challenge my “good enough” was really pretty darn good – great husband of 25+ years, kids I really like and enjoy being with, supportive friends, financially secure. But I did feel like physically I had started to let myself go, and I knew from past history that was a slippery slope. So I began the challenge primarily to improve my health and fitness level. In that regard I am on track. I have done assignments 1-10 and I have found them to be beneficial. I have been focused on my goal, and tenacious in pursuing it. I’m choosing to exercise 6 days a week , even when I don’t really feel like it, and I’m pushing myself to hit new highs. My eating is consistently clean, save for a beer or two on free day. I’m reviewing my goals, pictures and past blogs regularly to remind me why I’m here and to keep me in the game heading toward my goal. The hardest thing for me so far is that I have to remind myself often to “trust the process.” I would like to be seeing more results-wise. My biggest fear is that I won’t be satisfied no matter how much I change – that I’ll still focus on what’s wrong rather than what is right about my body. My goal for the rest of the challenge is to get past that attitude. I just read one of Sharen’s blogs in which she said we need to “change what we can, and leave the rest.” That is what I hope to do in the coming weeks. - Gaye

I have done pretty well! Doing the assignments but I still have a lot of work to do!!! Still a smoker but I am now on anxiety meds to help so I can quit smoking! I've lost 14 lbs. but still have a little belly roll that has to go!!!! I have not participated in "Group" like I should and that will change this Saturday-because now I know what number to call and have no excuses-I want to do well and I will keep "truckin"!!! Thanks for everyones support and encouragement!!! Love, Angela

Where am I at? Well, when I first found t.com, I think I was pretty pompous. I took too much satisfaction in what I had accomplished with BFL for the last 6+ years. Deciding to enter the "Be the Change" challenge was almost an impulse decision, but I have poured myself into it, and I've opened myself completely to where it will take me. It has been humbling, but amazingly rewarding. Starting week 10... I am awed and amazed by where it's taken me so far! Here are a few notes relative to each assignment... 1) Honestly realizing I have PLENTY o' room to go with transformation, 2) taking exercise up a notch to pursue a "10" every time, 3) much more variety in my nutrition, 4) defiance is fading, and my purpose of positivity and inspiration is taking hold, 5) Can't wait for deadline of August 1st! I visualize the success of that moment every day! 6) looking for the best traits in everyone... "consciously incompetent" in this area, but improving, 7) actively controlling my greatest leverage point - my environment, 8) criticizing and judging less, but still lots of room to go... "consciously incompetent" again... 9) ready, willing, eager to learn, and actively pursuing that knowledge. 10) LOVE THE JOURNEY. As ever, BP - THANK YOU.

I am starting to see glimpses of my potential and that gives me motivation. I now know that there is so much more to life than what I've been putting in and getting out of it. I have been eating clean and exercising consistantly for 15 weeks. It is hard to believe that by just doing these simple things on a consistant basis can have such an impact on my life. I have more energy, my clothes fit better and my body aches and pains are gone. I am a happier person. I have learned how important it is to honor self promises and by doing so I have discovered my inner stregnth. I know I have the ability to fininsh what I start and when I say I will do something I can find a way to make it happen. This has had an incredible impact on my realtionships with my children and my husband and for that I will always be grateful.

Bill, I'll be honest. Though I am seeing that it is true that if you do the work the results will come by way of watching others succeed in their transformation, I am finding that I am not giving 100% to each assignment. For instance, I know what to eat, how to eat, when to eat and why and yet I'm daily struggling with having clean food days. i don't know if it's a love of food, a lack of love of self, or what...Kinda like you said...it is what it is. I need to recommit to focusing each day on reviewing assignments i've all ready done. I find that when my days get busy which has been most days, I go about doing the mechanical aspects of the program and not the deep down take a good look at myself heart of the matter stuff. Which, I know is where the real change needs to take place. I think I'm going to print of this assignment and read it daily. I love the way it's worded and I think it will be a great help in the transformation of my thinking. take care:) ~~Nichole

Wow! Thanks for the recap....that is definitely going on the refrig!! i feel so blessed to be a part of this transformation. Lives are being changed daily all over the world because of each and everyone of us!! I can't believe how toned my muscles have become.....especially my heart!!!! I am grateful to be a part of this movement and pray God blesses our efforts ALOT!! Walking in Faith....Renee'

I really enjoyed reading through those first person statements. I can't believe how true each one is for me. I've really accomplished a lot. It helps to remember that. With this post, I've completed the first 10 assignments and have put a lot of thought and honesty into them. I haven't missed a workout and have followed my daily nutrition plans pretty much flawlessly. I'm doing the work, holding the intention, trusting the process, and letting go of attachment to the outcome. I'm feeling light - physically, mentally, and spiritually. My wife says if I get any calmer, she's going to smack me. People are really starting to notice and are asking what I'm doing. I'm starting to get "it", and now I can start giving "it" away!

To be honest I can say that I feel awesome and great,especially since where i been at before in my life. Gang banging,doing drugs,trying to commit sucide,when I was younger. To where I am at now,By God's grace I am doing it and being strong about it. I don't want that life style no more.I try not look back at my past,but sometimes I do and it just makes me stronger. I am very please Amen!!!!

So far I am good on all points. I do need to review my purpose every day. Other than that, I'm going to keep on keepin on! I really and truly feel that I am becoming a better person each day...with some hiccups along the way. But instead of the 'hiccups' paralyzing me, they propel me forward towards my dreams and goals.

Q: Where am I in the process? I'm exercising 6 days a week. I'm eating my portion sizes, but possibly eating more calories than I'm burning. I'm not seeing the results that I thought I should be seeing. I feel bloated for some reason. I need to figure out what I'm doing wrong.

I am entering week #15! But I have been taking shortcuts home! After a family death I had been a bit off course But this is life! And this program really does work, because despite my diet and exercise runnig at 70% the consistency has allowed me to maintain my results and even cont in a positive direction. I also just returned from a trip to Disney in FLA with my family. What a refreshing chance to refocus where I have been and where i am going. I have plently of work still to do, but I know I can do it with the support from all of you. This site has the gravitational pull of the sun. I can't go near my PC without transforming as my 1st stop. Thank you BILL.... I WILL SUCCEED...

I still have a vision of health and happiness. I work out 6 days a week and am starting on my 10th week. I recognize my progress and also the areas I have to work on. I have not been consistant with journaling or planning my meals. I recognize that this area is still an area of weakness for me and one I am going to work on and improve on. I will also concentrate on more abdominal exercises and doing more strength training. I am also running on a track 2 times per week to get ready to run a 5k. I will drink more water and less sugared drinks. I am good while at work but not so good at home. I will be more aware of what is going into my mouth. I will challenge myself in all areas. I will also spend more time in bible study and less time with the television. I will improve my interaction with my family and friends. I will be a role model for the people at work who are on my team for the weight loss challenge there. I will give them challenges along the way and also encouragement and support for any struggles they may have. I will say hi to at least one person at my gym and start being the change. I will transform from the introverted, shy person into someone authentic and real. I will smile more and more and more! The journey continues!!!

I am in week 10 of my second challenge. This week I am feeling a little discouraged. I have no right to be....except that I set my expectations a little higher than my reality has shown me. I am having mixed emotions about submitting my final photos. I have deliberated with thsi thought for about two weeks now. I believe I have decided. I have accepted the fact that I have not yet reached my destination....my truly, ultimate goal, and rather than change my start date to allow for a later date to submit fiinals, I know and trust that I am EXACTLY where I am suppose to be! I will submit my photos for this round, as I didn't for my first one. Too embarassed, too unsatisfied, to unsure that I would keep on going and stay empowered....as I had failed the Body-for-Life Challenge so many times before! It makes me realize that if I postponed my after photos this time, that I really didn't learn anything new! That I will have fallen victim of a challenge and it's outcome, instead of a documentation of a personal journey, a true evolution, history in the making. So as I stand back now and truly feflect, I have sooo much to be grateful for...to be thankful for....to admire.....and celebrate! And just because, I have dictated that my journey is NOT over, doesn't mean that I have nothing to celebrate this far! I am HEROIC...I have come a long way....I have grown....I have prospered...I have changed....I am TRULY closer to ACTUALLY appearing like the change that I wish....that I preach....that I embrace....and so it is! The change has many levels, many phases, many challenges, many curves and corners.....I will embrace each and every one of them and continue on my journey with the same pride, strength and courage I started it with....for I WILL SUCCEED...I WILL BE THE CHANGE CHAMPION in my life...in my eyes....in God's eyes...and that is truly what matters most! It doesn't matter if another challenge is in the works for me....it's another opportunity to get even stronger, toner, firmer, fitter, leaner, more empowering, and more beautiful than ever before. I am NOT afraid to say that my journey continues....I didn't get here in eight months, how can I expect to leave here in so little of time...if I were able to...it would be no where near the time I would need to truly transpire my heart, mind, body and soul! I hope my journey or transformation doesn't end four months from now either, because if it does...all dreams die with it....for the journey is a life-long one meant for self-discovery, growth, perfecting, betering, improving, inspiring, and more! So BRING IT ON! Bill, looks like you're stuck with me FOREVER! My journey continues....as with everyone elses on here. Let's stick it out together! To the JOURNEY....to the BE THE CHANGE JOURNEY....to the TRANSFORMATION of your MIND, BODY and SOUL! Hus from Demi in California xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

Where am I at now after 10 weeks???? Physically- in the best shape of my life. My energy levels are through the roof. Mentally- way more confident and goal oriented Emotionally- much stronger Spiritually- still struggling at times but working on getting reconnected.

I have seen myself in one light for so long that it was hard to see where the shadows were taking over. I’ve heard for years what my flaws were and as most, I was in denial of the truth. I see where I am now, I understand where I stand and I know exactly in what direction I am heading towards. I like to think of myself as being awakened and stepping into a new light, not in the religious sense but in the spiritual sense. I am standing at the starting line with a perfect path to follow that will lead me straight to the finish line. My purpose is more than making money or even gaining social status. What is my purpose? The Bible tells us in the passage in Jeremiah 29:11: "For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." According to this verse, we are all born with a plan for our lives. We all have a purpose for our existence. This plan is to give us a "future and hope." to be fulfilled in whatever we do according to God's plan. I have been blessed with God’s gifts throughout my life; he has given me one fulfilling purpose after another. My purpose now is to continue to learn and grow from my experiences and share those experiences to help others overcome their pain. God has lead me to many people to help me discover my best self. He gave me the knowledge to exercise, eat right and care for my body as a temple. I’ve been given the necessary tools to go forth and be productive in my ventures. My body and soul is now living in the right environment. God ‘s time is different then ours so I understand the meaning of the external and the internal deadlines he has set upon me. God doesn’t look for perfection but he knows I have the ability to progress, always learning, and always growing spiritually. God has made me a student of his teachings allowing me to absorb his knowledge in his time. He has shown me the dark side and let me understand how I can sometimes be my own worst enemy. Today at this moment, I am making positive changes in my life. Creating an image of myself that I know lies deep inside and letting the world see it too. I am opening my mind to new and creative change. Stepping out of my comfort zone and taking control of my destination. I am finally maturing and becoming the Linda that God intended me to be. I no longer need to let go of the ski rope for attention or have the desire to always be right. Being the center of attention in a crowd is unnecessary. Just being part of the crowd fulfills me. After all God doesn’t mistake who we are in a crowd. He knows us all by name.

This assignment is powerful for me. It tied together all the others which seemed to waiver out there and focused them in one direction. There were assignments I did and thought about for a few days and kinda forgot as I moved on. But this one reminded me of places I was weak and ways to stay motivated. I am printing it out now. God bless.

Where am I in this process? I feel as though somewhere around week 9 or 10 I fell off track and cannot seem to get my head above water. I've lost my vision and need to refocus. Not having family support is taking its toll on me. Family being mean and nasty towards me has worn me down mentally and physically. I need to practice detachment and move forward. I want to finish this strong for myself. Things I have learned about myself are: I'm a sugar addict, I am compassionate towards others, I am a giving person. I am working on reconnecting with myself so I can reconnect with others. I often feel disconnected and adrift. I am angry and lonely. I know how to help others and am quite often clueless in how to help myself. This is where I am. Someone once said when you don't know then learning can take place. I guess I am at the beginning of learning or a breakthrough is possibly going to happen.

It's been amazing so far. I've done the assignments, I need to get them transfered over to my profile. The biggest change, the voices in my head have relaxed, I've got a very busy mind. I'm more calm now. The need for perfection is gone, I don't know how that happened it just did. I like how you put it Bill, I humbly and gratefully accept that I am not and will never be perfect. Someone said to me about a month ago, your not Jesus Christ so stop trying to be him. (I was beating myself up over my daughters actions, not being the perfect mother) I can't un-fry the egg, so I'm making peace with my past and focusing on the day. How can I be a better person today. How can I reach out and touch someone today. How can I love better today. Everything is falling into place and I'm enjoying the ride. What a beautiful day it's going to be. Cheri

I am on assignment 10 and I am in week 13 so I feel close to being all caught up. So far so good I can say that the way of thinking now differs dramatically from the way I used to think. Chips and salsa has been replaced by a bowl of cereal with protein powder. Beer with water and if I miss a workout during the day I have actually found myself in the gym at 11:00pm or later. I am a much happier person.

Assignment 10: I have been diligent with my workouts and they are now a 'habit' to me and part of my daily routine. I've caught up and kept up with the assignments, because they really are helpful and serve a purpose. I still have bad habits, at the end of the day when I'm tired and feel I need something sweet - I am a work in progress - thank you, Bill for the opportunity and support!

My food,spirit,and exercise are all on target..Im very proud of myself for staying strong... Power Forward.... Always...Angela...Keep Smilin....

I have done all my assignments up to this point. I haven't done them or sticked by them the way I should of . I was laid off from my job in feb. and I really sunk into to a pool of self pity. Funny things is even thoug I have slowed way down in my transformation and haven't given it my all. I do not want to give up. I hit a bad spot and I let myself pull me down. but I am standing back up, dusting myself off and even If I don't finish in the 18 week period. I will keep going untill I do. It just sucks I let myslef slack off like I did. It is time to wake up Amy and move forward:)

I have hit all my assignmnets so far up to this one. I had a set back last week and gained 2.5 lbs. I took two free days instead of one the weekend before and I did again this first wknd of May. I found that if I take my free day's on Saturday, its just to easy for me to take another on Sunday. So, my wife and I decided to take our free days on Sunday going foward. I was kind of upset when I gained two lbs but I was actuallly focusing more on what I have gained! More energy, hardley any complaining, more muscle definition, closer to GOD, lifting others, and positve mind. That made me feel better as I reminded myself I'm not perfect and what you do most of the time is what matters. I'm looking foward to my first after picture of this challange this Sunday! Im on my fourth week and have decided to take a picture every four weeks to show progress and share with you all!

I can honestly say I have been cycling through these steps. every day I have to ask myself where I stand & where I'm going. Every day I am aware of exercising care of my physical form. Feed the body the right way, Is great more days than not. To know your purpose, I would Have to say is grater than my understand. The power of positive pressure is a funny one for me. It tends to bring up fear of ( am i going to do a good enough job?) but I do conquer it every time. Look for progress not perfection= I love this action, Before I was always looking so far into the future that I was missing the greatness on the way. So this has slowed me down.It has brought me joy in my every day life. Just one steep at a time. Be in the right environments= This one is so important! When you start to change & if you discover that you are in a negative environment. It becomes impossible to stay & be happy. But also know that your change does affect others. You see It becomes impossible for others to stay the same also. Not by force, but by there own choice & awareness. Know thy enemy= this is where i am at to day.( i am totally about to embarrass myself) Its street name is PMS. But it is kind of like a crazed gremlin that is hitting you in the head telling you to eat chocolate,eat,eat,eat Oh look greasy, salty food. you should it that to. and if you do I will stop bothering you. Now if I give in then that little gremlin will tell me things like. man you know your fat because you at all that junk. Don't you just want to give up. SO in the effort to be pro active i now make chocolate protein pudding, have chocolate protein shakes. i make myself get out and exercise, some time all i can do is walk because for some reason I have temporarily lost the ability to have any resemblance of grace. And lots of water in attempts to remove the 7 to 9 lbs of water weight I have obtained over night.And i have to remind myself that the overwhelming physical & mental frenzy will pass. just like everything does.Thing are better when I do this.Always a student= absolutely always!

I am a work in progress. I have been consistent in my physical work and I have made real progress. I am honoring self promises and succeeding in many ways. I am excited to be on this path. I enjoy sharing this experience with others.Some people underestimated the amount of weight they needed to lose, I underestimated the the spiritual and emotional growth I needed. I am in the process of changing that. It feels good (most of the time).

All of the aforementioned things are mine. I have always believed that I could accomplish anything I set my mind to- and in this case (although it's not been easy)- I have. I would have to say that the only troubling aspect of this transformation is the unhealthy emotional attachment I have to the people I'm "leaving behind". I know that the correct mindset is to know that I can only change myself- and then act upon that notion, but I still feel that in a weird way, I don't deserve to be happy. It's crazy, I know- but this has been and still is my biggest downfall. Please don't get me wrong, all of the above most certainly applies to me- and I feel utterly amazing about what's happening in my life. However, there is still a "sentimental prison" that keeps me from fully enjoying all of the progress I've made so far. The good news is, I am now awakening to this fact- and I'm now able to work towards ridding myself of it.

assignment #10 REFLECT AND REVIEW REFLECT ********* WOW I feel humbled and proud at the same time I have went back to my first assignment and yes I do learn for so many years I have lied to my self that I can’t learn but when I looked back I seen that I do and I can and so that gave me so much strength and faith in myself and the things that I have learned are not small they are indeed life changing and that is why my life is changing, I have learned to stay focused on the outcome of my goals and to make goals that are made by the prayers of my heart instead of the desire of my mind , I have learned that what I am allowing is what is happening, and if you allow your mind to reach the finish line before you reach it you are letting your desires take control there is a fine line between hope and visualizing the finish line if I hope I get there then I most likely wont but when I visualize me being there then I have turned that into a spiritual reality. I have also learned that my time is what I make it I always said that I don’t have time but when something is truly important then time creates itself and you get it all in I have also learned that I can waste a lot of quality time if I don’t plan, I am learning different ways to exercise and seeing what works best for me. I am very thankful for this chance to reflect and I can see such beauty and peace in my life and I just can’t thank bill enough for believing and co- creating this with god so that I can find my sweet niche in life as you have bill love and light and cheers to new beginnings ****** love Karla

Where are you in this process? I am winding down this transformation, thinking about my 'packet' and getting it ready to send in. I am filled with hopeful expectation and BELIEF that not only will I finish this challenge (#1) but go on to complete challenge 2, and more. I am also looking forward to meeting YOU, Bill, and the other champions and friends I've met on t.com! See you in Denver! Thank you for helping me focus and for giving me the opportunity to be part of your mission.

The past few days I had a real *Lightbulb* Experience. Painful as it was it became my Assignment 10. Thank You, Bill for your work here...you are truly broadcasting seeds of Hope...

Something just sank in as I sit here on a sunny Monday afternoon in Pioneer Square reading these notes from Bill. For about a week, I’ve been saying to myself (very quietly), “I can do that.” I don’t remember ever saying that. It’s always been, “I need, must, am expected, etc.” But now to look at all the options I have and truly, honestly respond with I can is an amazing sensation. The Be The Change assignments have taught me to see the value of myself and everyone else in my life. The exception to my integration of these lessons is T3 – I get a lot of internal resistance to following the nutrition plan – specifically the frequency. I’d rather not eat anything at all than have to be constantly thinking about food – every couple hours is my definition of consistently. I plan all my meals for the week on Sunday but then every couple hours, I have to do what is on the plan – think about how to consume what’s scheduled. But (and I use this word deliberately to cut off the resistance and move toward this new habit) I am following the plan more and more each week. Physically, I know there are changes happening; like my stomach actually growled the other day and I can’t remember it ever doing that – so I fed it a RIGHT shake  The progress on T3 integration is slow and the habit is going deeper into my being every time I do the RIGHT thing. I know I’m making progress. I have a baseline, a foundation now that is mine; that I’ve never had before. It isn’t fragmented or just the rework of someone else’s version of me. This means, what ever I decide to build on my foundation is also mine, all me. I don’t know what this sturdy version of me will do but I do know I don’t ever have to be something I’m not again. This transformation and the wisdom that comes from others on the site has taught me the term authentic and it has taken a whole new meaning for me because I am finally able to see who I am. I am strong physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually!

It actually felt awesome to reflect and be able to say I'm on track. Yes, there are a couple of things I need to tweak. First, I will put my 1st assignment up where I see it daily and reflect on those inner and outer changes I'm striving for. I do feel in touch with them but I didn't post them. Second, I owe Coach Stoney a BIG THANK YOU... for giving of his time. Otherwise, I'm on track and moving on to assignment #11. It's neat to see accomplishments all because I made a plan and I am sticking to it! Progress not perfection, it works!! And amazingly enough others saw it to and joined me in the hard work and fun!!

Assignment #10 I am a person who is learning to stand on her own two feet and not blame others for my faults. I work on myself both physically, mentally and spirituality each day. I have attained physical goals for the first time in my life by using future vision, journaling, and by not being embarrassed to share my experiences, strengths and weakness with others. I am working each day on mental and spiritual goals which to this day, I still have an extremely hard time setting. But I never give up. Another goal I have achieved, learning to persevere. Hence, why I love completing the assignments. I have found out things about myself I never knew existed inside. I remind myself each day where I started and where I want to be. I set my sights on the horizon and keep going. I enjoy looking back because it gives me a true feeling of accomplishment. I have learned through proper nutrition, exercise and being positive, to take care of my body. I realize I must take care of myself both physically and mentally to be the best for my family. I now realize the reason I was overweight and unhappy was because I never took responsibility for my own actions. I have realized through this transformation to stop playing the blame game and start being true and honest with myself. I have also learned that no amount of exercise or nutrition will help you achieve your goals if you have not learned to focus on being positive, discover what holds you back and rely on others for support. I exercise three days a week with weights and three days a week doing some form of cardio whether it’s my elliptical, plyometrics, kenpo, or my new goal; running. I am still learning to be consistent with my workouts and to not let the “morning groggies” get in the way of reaching my goals. This is a constant struggle for me but one I have come to realize will always be a weakness. However, I have never given up and push beyond what I think is possible each day. When I’ve had bad days or bad weeks, I re-focus, review my goals, find peace of mind, and look at the things that have held me back on those days, re-group and move forward. I may have taken a parallel step but never a step back. I eat a well balanced diet of protein, carbs and healthy fats. I stay away from sugar and processed foods except on my “free days”. I control my portions and try not to eat late at night. My goal is to drink 10 cups of water per day. However, I find myself usually around eight-nine which is also another struggle I try to conquer each day. I have learned to cook and enjoy delicious, nutrition filled meals that I get to enjoy with my family thanks to the EFL cookbook. I am aware of the reasons I started this transformation and the reasons that held me back for so long. The thing I have found that keeps me on track the best is being accountable. I’ve done the BFL challenges in the past and only completed one with ok results. All the others I never finished. This time, I have let everyone know what I was doing. I always feel in my heart I cannot let the people I love down. I cannot let the people I love see me fail. I had this image if people knew I was doing BFL or was doing the transformation thing; they would think I joined a cult or something. I decided I didn’t care if people thought I was crazy and joined a cult... Instead, I’ve received amazing support. I enjoy changing and evolving every day. Each day I wake up, I feel like it’s the first time I’ve seen the sunrise, or heard the birds chirp. I feel young, vibrant and re-energized. I began my Transformation on February 1, 2009 and will complete the full 18 weeks on June 7, 2009. I have learned to let go of the perfection I always expected of myself and especially of others. I now look to myself as a work of art…one brush stroke at a time. If I mess up, there’s more paint to fix it. I realized from previous challenges if I made an error and had a bad day; I would throw in the towel for the whole day. Now, I pick up the pieces, chalk it up as a loss and move on. I focus on many successful days I have had and not how many times I have stumbled. I have learned when I am in a negative environment, if I remain focused and positive; I can usually turn my environment into something positive also. Being able to make others realize that there is better in them, makes me want to strive even harder to be a better person. There is no doubt I am my own worst enemy. I understand I can only rise as high as my lowest level habit. That is why I work each day on my goals, staying true to myself, seek out spiritual guidance and rely on my friends and family for support. I recognize my weakness and work to turn them into strengths. I have come to realize I no longer want those negative habits interfering with my new person I have become. And if I am not aware of them, they will linger in the back of my mind. They will re-surface and destroy everything I have worked hard to accomplish. I am open and willing to learn from anyone with a positive message. I am also willing to help anyone who is in need of changing their lives for the better. I have learned to stop talking and listen, to give myself over to others and to God. It is always a truly inspiring feeling when I do talk, that someone is interested in what I have to share about my experience. I am always more than happy to share if I can inspire someone to take steps to being a happier, healthier person. I am inspired by my own success and the success of others. I enjoy nothing more than watching them succeed in their transformation. It encourages me to strive harder and to reach for the stars each day. I am proud of where I am in my Transformation. I also realize my journey is far from over. I still have a lot of self improvement to work on but I am proud of the new person that has emerged in the process of self discovery. And I look forward to maintaining the positive energy I have developed. I look forward to my future with hope and enlightenment. As the song goes…”I can see clearly now the rain is gone…”

ASSIGNMENT #10 WHAT ARE YOU SEEING? WHAT ARE YOU FEELING? What are you seeing? I am experiencing more interaction with people on a daily basis. I smile frist and attract that which I am seeking, which is a returned smile and more often than not, a full blown fun conversation! I also see that I have much more energy due to stabilized blood sugar levels which keeps me performing at peak awareness. My job as a fire apparatus engineer(driver/pump operator) requires spit second decision making and I have experienced this readlily and recently on a few major incidents on the fire ground. I have received many positive comments on my work ethic and performance by not only my supervisors but peers as well. I see that the work done on these transformation assignments has helped me exceed my expectations and has given me a means to improve on my daily responsibilites. As I have used before, KAISEN, a Japanese word for continuous and never ending improvement. It has become a reality that I am excited to adopt. What are you feeling? I am feeling indefatigable! Hows's that for a word? It means to never tire. When I started this transformation I was feeling anger, couldn't get excited about anything, and wasn't performing at my potential. By working on the assignments and ramping up my fitness routines I have been able to turn on the power within myself to reach and go beyond the goals I have set for myself. I know that this is to be a life long commitment and I plan on doing JUST THAT! When this round 1 is over i will continue with round 2. The awareness and increased energy that I have obtained is all I need to know that I can share and motivate others to do the same. I am so excited to be "LIVING" again! This time it will be payed forward to my family, friends and community. What a rush!

It's hard to believe that not to long ago, I felt compelled to eat whtever I wanted and then become disappointed at how I felt and looked. I was not true to myself, I would go to the gym, go through the motions, and go home. There was a hole in my soul and I tried to fill it so many ways: look for a new job, read more self-help books, eat more sweets, take more naps. I know about the God-shaped hole, I just never really took it to heart along with doing what was right for me. Right before my eyes I am becoming the person I want to be, and Bill has given us all the tools to do this! I cannot wait to see what the next 8 weeks has to offer and to see how I can further improve on "me" for the rest of my life, and ultimately, how I can Be The Change and pay this beautiful thing forward! Love and Light, Christa

Q: Where are you in this process? I finally know where I'm at in my life, where I'm going, and how I'm going to get there. These are all very important things to know about yourself and before I started this transformation journey, I was floundering in all of those aspects of my life. I'm wrapping up week 14 and I am amazed that as I read Bill's assignment that I saw myself in what he wrote. I feel like I have finally given myself over to the process and I know I can trust in letting it do it's job! Where am I at? I am working daily on transforming my mind, my body, my life and the life of my family. Where am I going? I am going in the direction that I feel my Heavenly Father has directed me. I did not find this community nor the friends on this site by accident. I have things that I share that will help someone and I have been helped by reading and talking with people on this site. How am I going to get there? By continuing to unveil and unwrap my heart and reveal the person God created me to be. I am changing...inside and out...and it is all for the better!

I can honestly say, I'm doing my assignments, I 'm excersiceing six times a day & eating the six small meals a day!! I'm only three weeks into this Transformantion (April 30th will be my 1 month anniversary)...... As I look back of where I was & were I am now is simply amazing!!!! I was in size 14 now @ present date I'm proud to say, " I'm in size 10 !!!!!!!!!! WOW & I feel great never could have I imagined this new me & this is just whats to come!! I have more energy, sleep better & I make smarter food choices &" I'm just so HIPED " up for what little i've accomplished in such a short time. I have to Thank my wonderful husband for signing me up were we both could be Transformed togather into a more healthy lifestyle & Thank God for accepting me just as I am. I feel I'm becomeing a better person inside & out I share this site w/ co-workers & freinds. Thanks Bill for the wonderful site & to all for your continued surport. God Bless you all !!! Chris

Looking back at my progress I am very content with how the process is going, yet more driven than ever to see and feel continued results. I have not been doing anything unusual or different, I have just been following the plan. I feed myself six small healthy meals a day, I get in my six workouts each week, and I have completed each assignment. I have to say I feel better than I have in years. I feel so much stronger physically, emotionally and spiritually. Although my life is going through many changes, I feel more at peace than I ever have in my life. The friends I have made on this site have been amazing, so full of encouragement and support. I can not say enough about how wonderful this journey has been to this point, I'm thankful God led me here. I look forward to seeing where it will continue to take me. Sara

Assignment T- #10 : Strengthening My Weakest Link T1: Today, I know myself and I know where I am going. FORWARD! I took a long time to think about this assignment, because I think it is one of the most important assignments. (Honesty with my program). What's working and what isn't; then trying to figure out WHY something is not working. I (me, Laurah) am finally working! I am thankful for all I have been able to accomplish internally, but I realized this week that my weakest link in the first 9 assignments is in my weight training program. I'm not doing it. I love what weight training does for my shape, and I like it once I'm in the gym....it is like the cheese slicer of fat, which sculpts and makes beautiful things out of funny shapes. The most bang for your buck. Weight training is the BEST. BUT, for me, weight training does not have INSTANT GRATIFICATION...(like swimming does for me). I FEEL the swimmer's high, calm, and peace working the minute I get done with my 1/2 mile swim. I want to do it every day; it is THAT good!.....100% better than poptarts or bags of candy! It's the BETAS I get from it. Weight training (for me) has a longer payoff, and for someone with an addictive brain, I found out that I don't like waiting. I'm impatient. So, I have to change. I have to do it for all of the long-term benefits, which are many. So, I started today, and it felt really great! It's also funny, but what started as my weakest link (my sugar addiction and disordered eating) has now become one of my strongest links in my program. I say that humbly, because I never take my abstinence for granted. I am committed to my 12-Step program and my daily abstinence from sugar and alcohol, as well as wheat and flours. One day at a time. T2: Exercising Care for the Physical Form As my program builds step by step, I keeping adding to it. Today I added weight training to my walking and swimming. :) T3: Feed the Body the Right Way I really enjoy my nutrition program now that I am sugar(s)-free. Every day is a FREE day (LOL) because I am FREE from the addictions that had me in chains for so many years. I don't take any of this for granted. One day at a time. Blessed and thankful for God's grace~ I am constantly looking for ways to tweak my program now that things have "stabilized" and I'm not going through withdrawal symptoms. I'm experimenting more with food, and cooking. It's fun~ T4: Know Your Purpose My purpose has changed a little. I think I started, just hoping to cross the finish line, but now I want to finish really strong, and keep the momentum going in my next challenge which will overlap this one. I know alot of people and friends of mine struggle with sugar addictions in various forms (sugar, alcohol, diabetes) and I am driven to help set an example for them so I can inspire them to make changes in their future. T5: The Power of Positive Pressure Once I turned my program over to God on February 13, 2009, I gave Him the steering wheel. I am committed to finishing this Challenge on June 18, 2009. I have specific timelines and deadlines. T6: Look for Progress, Not Perfection My program now, is built on baby steps. Once I let God have it, he showed me every step, and continues to do so on a daily basis. I know I am not perfect. I find contentment in my progress, and I measure it by linking the days together. T7: Be in the Right Environment I am consistently looking for ways to improve my environment to create margin (space), so I can be and think creatively again. Taking time to organize is a huge payoff. Less is more. I seek simplicity, now. After so many years of having a cluttered, scattered life, I am enjoying this process. HUGE progress not perfection in this area... T8: I can be my own worst enemy...in my head Negative self-talk can set me back into any bad situation, or cause me to relapse. I have found that by meditating on certain scripture verses in my Bible, my mind focuses on the positive promises of God, to help me press on through the storms I face. T9: Always a Student I love to learn, and learn from others. I think that is also the reason I love my job working at a college. I am very inspired by the success and transformation of others. I find it fascinating to see HOW people overcome, so I spend a great deal of time reading and studying human behavior. I am pleased with my progress so far, and I am very excited to start my next assignment. I also look forward to carrying over what I have learned in this first Round, into my Round 2 on T, and building upon my new foundation. Laurah :)

My intentions, purpose, and spirit are right on point. The intangibles of positive pressure, progress acknowledgment, and spiritual growth are proudly on the up-and-up. However, I must admit that my visible, tangible results have been disappointing. l know that I need to commit just as much energy and focus to the key element of exercise. I'm properly feeding my body, but not properly taking care of my physical form. Thank goodness for the internal work I've done, which is allowing me to move forward without feeling discouraged.

I can honestly say that to this point, I believe I have given all that I can to this process. I've put alot of thought and effort into each assignment and they have really hard in many aspects as I had so much to deal with internally. I am aware of where I was. I see now that the lies that I believed were dictating my life and the way I treated my body. Everyday I am learning and changing. My emotions can be a roller coaster at times, but I can now center myself and take a look at where I am and how far I have progressed. I can also reach out to others and offer support and that is what I like to do best so that fits right into my challenge. There is always room for improvement and I expect that I will continue to grow and evolve as I continue on this challenge and the next and the next. So far, I have learned to forgive myself. I've learned to forgive others who have hurt me. I've learned that my best friend (God) can minister to me if I will only open the door to him. I've learned to open that door. I've learned to take responsibility for my self including my thought life, my spiritual developement and my physical being. No more hiding for me. No more beating myself up. I love me. I love all you with a open heart. I'm grateful and appreciative for every soul present in my life. I know I am here to be taught or to teach or just be a friend. Each one of those things is special and signifigant. In every situation, I ask "What do you want to teach me in the mist of this, Lord?" Every circumstance is a learning opportunity. I'm sure as I strive to complete the other assignments I will find even more things to contemplate and and apply to my life and I look forward to doing just that.

I’ve completed my assignments up to this point and push myself to complete the rest as I honestly reflect about what I am seeing and feeling…. I see my life becoming more in balance with the spiritual, emotional, mental, and slowly in the physical area. I visualize who I want to be on the inside as well as the outside. It takes practice for me; I really had to think about how it feels to feel really good on the inside- the bounce in my step, the high activity level, helping others, actively participating in life. I now know God will protect me and I do not need to insulate myself by over eating. When I make a mistake I get over it much quicker than before. Actually, I would have given up. I see a healthier person, one who enjoys training and making healthy food choices. I became empowered enough to leave my toxic work environment. My faith is growing and I claim the impossible! I am able to live out my dreams; I see myself running a half marathon. I’m free from the pain that tries to cling to me. God has healed me with a fresh start to life. It was there but I didn’t let go until recently. My old self is dead. I am a new creation- I’ve learned that I can meet my goals as long as I am willing to do the work with consistent effort and determination. I’ve also noticed that I affect others and if I want them to push towards progress with a positive outlook I must set the example. What am I feeling? I am feeling alive, strong, energized, determined, motivated, capable, balanced, and closer to God. I feel like all my head knowledge is finally helping me and others on this journey.

First of all, I absolutely love the fact that each assignment seems to fall perfectly in line with feelings, thoughts, and experiences that fit within that specified week. This experience has been so educational, so fulfilling, and full of so much purpose. Coming into the Transformation I felt that I had a great base with the working out and eating aspects. I’ve always lived in one extreme or another, and that is if I were focused on working out, I’d eat clean and would stay on track. If I wasn’t working out, I’d eat terribly. Doesn’t make a bit of sense, but I knew that I had the tools to get started. I really needed to figure out how to stay on course and make a life change…not for 12 weeks, not for 18 weeks. I need to find a way to complete the 18 weeks and transition into a sustainable, healthy lifestyle…one that becomes as routine as getting up in the morning, or going to work every day. In some regards I’ve let go of so much, yet I’ve gained so much more. The weight has been coming off steadily, yet I’m dying to work harder…or perhaps smarter, but my ultimate goal is to become the lean and fit person that I’ve always dreamt of being. I’ve let go of a lot of bad habits and don’t ever want them back…binge eating (sometimes joking about it and making a game of it with friends); being complacent about working out, being completely absent in my relationship with God. I’m feeling my relationship with God for truly the first time, and that’s amazing. My relationship with my wife is effortlessly getting better and better by the day, and my love for her and our children is growing even stronger. My perspective of life and family has changed so much since I’ve started my Transformation, and it has replaced much of how I felt about my career…really I was putting a lot more of myself into my job than I was my family. I realize now how much I was missing, but I also realize that my eyes are open now, and that the possibilities are endless. I’m soooo looking forward to the next assignment! - Eric

I am in the best physical shape of my life! I am more muscular, have more stamina, and I even have a tan . I am feeling a very clear connection between my mind and body and I am beginning to see exactly what Bill means when he explains that the physical form is a reflection of the inner condition....I am living more intentionally each day. I have found that the power mindset has really helped me to be accountable to myself. It has turned those dreams of someday into today. I don't always accomplish what is on my list, but I live with a purposed awareness and not a vague sense of failure. I have learned to plan but to also roll with it when things don't go as planned, instead of just throwing in the towel. I have become more patient. I have become more engaged. I have become more present....I am listening more and talking less. I am considering other perspectives and evalutating long held convictions. I am becoming more interested in my wife - in her thoughts, her feelings, her struggles and dreams. I am spending more time with my children and enjoying it for the moment...I am finding an outlet for my creative side and silencing the cacophony of voices in my head by meditation through blogging. Taking the time to consider my thoughts and then explaining them through writing has been surprisingly theraputic. It too has forced me to be more present. ...I see light up ahead. I am no longer afraid to fail. I have already succeeded.

I have 5 weeks left and I am feeling wonderful. I am exercising consistently, my environment is free of toxic or binge foods and the eating finally is coming together, I am reading the posts and blogs of members and working to get outside of myself. I had a realization this week that while this transformation has been a lot about me, I want my next round to be about others. This desire to reach out to others is now fueling my commitment to eat healthy on a regular basis. I'm seeing it is like a big circle -- I think am finally getting it! I knew it intellectually but now I feel it in my heart. Beth

Brilliant!! Right on target, I really liked this assignment, and it makes me feel sooo good to think and see how far I have come..... Great to read and see how many others are finding their way on this Transformation also. this is truely good work and simply must be blessed from God. I think that I am on target, but the 'always a stundent' thought makes me feel that there is perhaps more I can and should do. But for the first time I will not sabotage myself with that thought, but use it as a gentle 'course re-alignment' not an excuse to 'stop the journeyr'....

I think that this Assignment is right on point. It made me feel like I had accomplished so much but still so much work to do. Right on point and such a nice summary of all the great things and steps we have had to achieve to become better persons, inside and out!!! ~Nella

I have seen so many changes in me – my moods, habits, food choices and communications (Toastmaster speeches, t.com, emails, conversations). I’ve also seen the physical changes and can’t wait to drop another 60ish pounds! The most exciting part of this process is being able to inspire others like me to show that it CAN be done through constant and neverending improvement (CANI - Anthony Robbins). This challenge may have an 18 week timeframe, but I'm already looking ahead to the new, improved me.

Assignment #10 T1: Know Thyself, Where Thy Stand and Where Thy is Going I remind myself daily where I started as I learn and forgive my self for the why and how I got to that point. I have more energy and am in better condition both mentally and physically than I have been in my entire life. Every day gets better and I look forward to getting up to face new challenges in this life long journey. T2: Exercising Care for the Physical Form I workout 6 days a week and have a daily plan to follow. When life happens and my plan will not work for the day, I always have a plan B. I listen to my body and when I need a break to rest and recover and I do it without fear or remorse. I make exercise fun and challenging. T3: Feed the Body the Right Way I eat 6 meals a day that are balanced, nutritious and taste great. I no longer fear eating outside my home because I know how to make the right choices, where to find a quick and nutritous meal and how to stay on track regardless of what challenges come up. I use my free days to clear my mind rather than stuff my face. T4: Know Your Purpose I think about my purpose every day and focus on the different aspects of my purpose as they present themselves. In the morning, I think about my physical goals and how I want my body to transform. After my workout, I meditate and work toward a spiritual connection. I spend the rest of the day with family and friends both new and old and concentrate on building stronger relationships, being of service and dreaming about the future. T5: The Power of Positive Pressure I have learned to take dreams and turn them into plans that are defined and measurable. I have learned to focus on the now and when a goal is realized, it's time to turn the next dream into reality. T6: Look for Progress, Not Perfection I know that I am only human and I forgive my short comings while celebrating success. I understand that a failure is an opportunity to try again and again and to learn. T7: Be in the Right Environment I constantly work to keep my environment in line with and supportive of my purpose. T8: Know Thy Enemy I strive to understand my actions and reactions and understand that it is the choices I make that determine them. I work on a moment to moment basis to change self destructive behaviors and reinforce positive ones. T9: Always a Student My desire to learn grows every day along with my desire to be of service. It is my duty in life to understand all I can, to apply that knowledge then pass it forward so we can all grow together. In addition… I have found that this process is supposed to be fun... challenging, sometimes confusing and a real pain in the ass... but always fun. At the beginning of this 18 weeks, I read through all of the assignments and thought I was going to have to become a monk and join a monastery or, at least, be some glassy eyed puritan who's only goal was to sit and ponder my existence day after day, with the occasional 5k for charity thrown in to mix things up. I have fun every day, I joke, play, laugh and just enjoy life! It just keeps getting better and better.

I've done each assignment and it's nice to have this reflection time to honestly look at where I'm at and what I'm feeling. I realize that after 15 weeks I should be a little further along with the assignments, but I know that I will catch up down the home stretch. I'm feeling that I have found an eating plan and a workout plan that I can do for the rest of my life, not just for 18 weeks. I'm feeling that I didn't put 100% into the nutrition and exercise, and my results show my lack of 100% effort. Don't get me wrong, I have had results, people have noticed, and I celebrate the results that I've gotten as well as the compliments I've been given. I've had my slip-ups, my disconnectedness with the T.com community at times, and the little challenges that come up from time to time, but I continue to keep my eyes on my intention, which is to finish, and my mind on my why, which is to get healthy not just for me, but to be an example for my family, friends, and the world around me. - Chad

Have you missed an assignment or lesson? Have you done them all? As you carefully and honestly give yourself a moment to review and reflect, what are you seeing and what are you feeling? Throughout these past few weeks I have carefully been contemplating each assignment. As I have read the above assignment I CAN see myself. It is totally amazing and empowering. I am feeling like I have never felt before..... I am opening up and sharing my life with others more....... I am learning to trust again, love again, share more of my faith again, seek more of God again, sing again, laugh again, write again, and pray again. I am feeling happier, lighter, confident and more at peace with my environment. I love deeper, give more and make an exerted effort to speak only things that are TRUE. I refuse to play the WHAT IF game any longer.

Reflection has arrived at the perfect time. Coming off a week of sickness that infected every member of my house. I am struggling getting everything back together. The workoouts are coming, the nutrition is about 80%, but my head is at about 60%. I know I need to focus like a laser but things are looking a bit foggy. This week I will see just how successful I have been thus far by how well I get myself back in the game!

Reflecting back I feel that I have worked my assignments to the best of my ability according to where I am at in my life . My inner workings are a lot more intentional this time as I have met new people in my life that teach me and show me how to be a better person, friend and husband. For me, and i might be wrong when I say this, but the assignments are something I see myself doing over many times in a lifetime. I see huge improvements this time , and i can see where I can make improvements in other areas in my life. I'm just beginning to "get" a lot of this. I tend to over think things and make them lot harder than they should be. I don't know if I will ever be completely finished with any assignment, but I do think I will always finish my assignments completely as they relate to me at that time.

Wow! This assignment was so very powerful-I love it! Where am I? I can openly and honestly say I am at a point that I feel cofident I have found a permanent NEW me. I loved the words about I am not dieting I eat healthy. ABSOLUTELY! I have learned this is a lifestyle change. Looking back when I started this journey my attitude was more along the lines of I hate exercize and had to foce myself. Looking back I hated a lot of things back the because my mind was not open to opportuniy and gifts. Now I am upset if I have to miss a workout. I love to workout it is an educational time for myself and a reflection time for me to continue to learn and grow. I feel my inner change has ben far more significant than the outter change, but am honestly pleased with both. Since it is tru we re our own worst critics initially I would say I could have worked harder but really realizing the inner work I have put into his as well I amfeeling grat overall. I have ccompleted every assignment up to 10 with full devotion and sincerity. I am learnig to love myself and others around me more and more every day. I am becoming a happy person! I am also acknowledging that it has taken loads aof suport and all the wonderful people here to help me get where I want to go-thank you everyone!

I'm in the middle of week 8 of my transformation. I've come a long way - lost 18 pounds, exercising every day, eating well, sleeping well - and I have a long way to go. I really like this community approach to achieving physical, mantal and spiritual good health. We are not alone in the lifeboat. this has been fun.

I have written a very lengthy response addressing each of the assignments. Please refer to my blog for the "whole story". Thanks!

I love the phrase "cut and paste" I wish I would have looked at this before because you are so blessed with your words. I am going to "cut and paste" this onto my homepage where my other assignments are posted......Kinda seeing what the past champions are meaning when they say when they do the assignments again in their second round that they are much more clear in their goals. All the credit goes to Bill Phillips.

Assignment #10 - Reflect and Review Wow, I can't believe that I actually teared up a little just reading this assignment! It's funny how much can change in so little time, although I know that I still have a longggg way to go. I also know that if I have gotten this far, there's no way I'm going to stop now! I have gotten a little behind in the assignments (I am on Week 14 currently), but I am going to be all caught up in a couple of days - that's the plan... In going back and reading my first couple of blogs and assignments, I am completely amazed at my transformation so far! My first assignment was like a desperate cry for help. I didn't believe in myself anymore, I had lost hope, void of inspiration - I basically felt like my life was over and I was just waiting around to die. My depression had spiralled completely out of control, and I felt out of control in every area of my life. Fast forward to today. I am getting stronger physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Though I still have a long way to go to achieve my ultimate goals, I know that I am on the right path to achieving them. In one of my first blogs I wrote that in order to believe in myself again I needed to see that I could finish something that I started - and I am only 4 weeks away from completing my first 18 week challenge! This is a huge step in the right direction for me! This was all so overwhelming in the beginning - planning meals, working out consistently, writing blogs, thinking positive, etc. Now, just as Bill says in this assignment, it has all just become part of my routine. Sure I've slipped up here and there, but the important thing is that I've consistently got back on my two feet again, sooner rather than later. Progress, not perfection, has become a very relevant motto for me. In the past if I slipped up, I would just give up altogether. Not anymore. Sure, there is a part of me that thinks that I should have lost more weight at this point in my transformation had I done this differently, or that differently, but that's all irrelevant. The fact is that I have followed this program to the best of my abilities at this point in my life, and I am happy with my results so far! The scale is dropping, my muscles are growing, and I am learning how to enjoy life again - and that is what's important.

This assignment has made me really excited, and proud of myself. Why? Because I feel great about what I have done so far. I've completed all the assignments - to the best of my ability. Some required me to print them out, highlight, underline and completely review what was being asked - so I could really dig deep within my soul! I'm pleased with my progress in all aspects. The exercise, the eating, the connecting with members - I'm doing it all. I'm looking forward to the assignments ahead of me - they will be so great. The two things I am most proud of though - I QUIT SMOKING - I REGISTERED FOR MY FIRST 1/2 MARATHON. Thank you for helping me! ~~ Marriann

Okay, I can honestly say that this is the best I have felt in many years. I am down 32 pounds but I am so much stronger mentally. In the last 13 weeks I have grown so much. -- much more than I anticipated. I am not the same person that I was when I started this transformation and I am going to list the changes below: What I have done well: 1. I have not allowed myself to quit because of the results not happening fast enough. 2. I have stuck to my work out schedule. 3. I am much more confident at home and at work. 4. I rely on my inner strength much more. I know how to use it to get me through those tough moments. 5. I have done the assignments at my pace. I want to emphasize this point. At first I wanted to do an assignment once a week. But I have realized that the more I have changed over the weeks the more thought and meaning I am able to put into each assignment; it is much more effective for me. Each time I complete an assignment, it has raised my mindset to the next level which helps me in every other part of my transformation. 6. Most of all -- my life is heading in the right direction and I cannot put into words how much this means to me. 7. Staying connected – I have stayed involved in the community. What I need to do better: 1. Getting the absolute most out of my workouts. I mean when I get to that point where I do not think that I cannot sweat out another rep or do another minute of cardio or perform another exercise – I need to finish and finish strong!! I do not always do this for every workout. My last five weeks have to have this intensity. 2. Not Staying Connected enough - I have stayed connected but I can give more. The more I give the more I feel better and the more I receive. 3. Consistent with my nutrition. The two things that I need to improve is eating more frequent meals and drinking more water. I have very few bad days but I do not eat as frequently as I should and I do not drink as much water. 4. I do not spend enough time reflecting back on my progress. I think that this is important education for me so that I can consistently revisit the things that have allowed me to get to this point. Great assignment, it really made think about where I am today. Jonathan

On reflection I can see I'm slightly off target. My biggest issue is soda. I love diet mountain dew. The problem is I drink way too much of it. What I should do is replace it with water and green tea. So instead of having a little water and or green tea I'll have a little diet mountain dew. I will do this starting tomorrow. This last week I missed a couple of exercise days due to a motorcycle day ride (234 miles) and being very sore and tired from that ride. More water and less soda along with not skipping an exercise day and I'll be back on target.

Right away I saw that I was allowing myself more coffee than water (I replaced the word soda with my favorite beverage). What a duh! I see that I must change that starting now. Although I have done all of the assignments through #9, I have not been reading and connecting with my vision and reason each day. So much power and energy is contained within my vision and my why. It seems so smart to reconnect with them each and every day, rather than just go up into my head and say to myself, “Hmmm, yes I remember why I am doing this.” By just trying to remember, I lose important words, or details that help me have the fuller more meaningful picture. Another thing I noticed was that although I do check in with my accountability group every day and learn about each members' plan, progress and struggles, I do not spend time really reading the blogs of others on this journey. I have watched many of the Champion videos, and made contact with Marty, Shane, and Clarissa, I think I could invest more time into this activity for the benefit of both myself and others. I do have to keep a limit on how much time I spend online and that is partially the reason why I have not. I think I can tweak this however. Overall, I feel very positive about where I am and where I am going. This has been a great experience for me so far and I am very excited as I look forward to the remaining 10 weeks of my transformation. ~Brooke

Yesterday was the beginning of week 13 for me. I am not where I wanted to be by now, but I am where I am supposed to be. I have skipped meals, missed workouts, fought the process, and doubted my ability to succeed. I have also dropped a ton of resentments, pain, anger, and frustration. I have far to go to reach my physical goals, but my emotional improvements...... no words to describe. I am re-focused, re-energized, and ready to attack the next 6 weeks of this challenge, and just let the physical progress be what it will be. I am giving up the fight, and trusting the process.....at last!! ~Patty

I kept thinking I was behind on my Assignments but the truth is that I wasn't ready to be HERE yet. I needed to process what I had learned. As I read through each assignment it felt right and I have honestly followed through. On reflection, only recently has true "awareness" come. I am beginning to use adversity and fear as a guide to change old limiting behaviors. Also, I love reading the Blogs around the community. I find it so interesting and I'm enjoying being an observer and active participant. We are here to learn, help and grow.. I believe it's part of God's plan. :)

I wanted to post it here but it is waaaay too long. I hope you all come by and read it. I love the input... http://www.transformation.com/AlexandBoogsDad/blog/Assignments/Assignment-10/31317 Thanks! Geoff

Overall, I am doing good, and happy with my progress so far. I haven't missed any assignments, but could have completed them earlier each week to allow more time for reflection. I am seeing physical results because of my exercising and eating better and others tell me they can tell a difference in me in that I seem more confident and have more energy. I do need to work harder on my spiritual goal, however, and feel that since I seem to have a handle on my physical goals, that I can really rev up my focus on my spiritual goal. I am celebrating my progress thus far and look forward to what the next 9 weeks have to hold for me. Thanks again for a great assignment Bill! --Brandie

I am at a point in my transformation where I can truly feel "awareness" has happened. When we were in Hawaii and I was indulging in the beauty of the island, the serene and tranquil moments just sitting on the beach, or looking over the deck in our room and just expierencing what I was, I had an awakening there that for me was pretty awesome. Watching the ocean, and FEELING what I was finally feeling about just tuning into who I was, what I wanted to create, and where I was going to go from there.. Being around such wonderful positive people and feeling the energy from everyone was also very inspiring to me. I feel that for me this was a huge turning point and I am so happy that I FELT what I was Feeling, I finally LET GO of some lower level habits, and came back renewed and re-energized, with such a peaceful happy feeling. Now I feel that I am 100% tuned into the transformation process! Sorry lots of feeling going on here! :)

I am in week 5 of my first 18 week challenge. At this point I can honesty say if your work the program, the program will work. When I started, I was a non-believer, a sceptic, a doubter but I started down the path anyway borrowing the belief of folks in this community by reading their stories and looking at the overwhelming evidence that this program is the way to spritual and physical well-being. Today I and 16 lbs lighter physically and 160 lbs lighter mentally. I believe with all my heart and soul that I have found the right path. Plus, you know what...that's all I need for success. So, thank you community from a gratefully transforming Gale Golden

Setting a weight loss amount and a dress size goal in Assignment #5 is not enough positive pressure for me. Probably because when I am well..healthy, and feeling great, I will feel like I have achieved where I want to be physically. So I upped the ante this week. I signed up for a sprint triathlon. I paid for it and have a swim coach(I can barely dog paddle.) I can see changes, feel changes and I think my life has more direction than I ever had before. I am living intentionally. I have relaxed and giving it up. The power of reciprocation is forever on my mind. Cool assignment to reassess the progress.

Assignment #10 Where are you in this process? Today, I am in the middle of my 12th week of my first transformation challenge. I have, thus far, completed all the assignments as per Bill's request. They are all located throughout my blog. I have to say that for the first time in my life, I'm feeling like I can actually accomplish this for myself. I've tried to exercise before and I've had my weight fluctuate, but I've never done anything and said, "you know what? I could do this like this forever." I'm definitely starting to feel that way. My HIIT runs are fast, efficient, and never boring. I'm in and out of the gym quickly and exhausted. Yesterday, my boss made a comment about my weight loss and how well I was doing. It was the first time she said anything about it in the last 12 weeks. She asked me if I had any goals. I said, yes. Right now, I'm just under 2 miles in 20 minutes. My pie in the sky goal is to run 3 miles in 20 minutes (18 minutes is the USMC qualifier). Her eyes bulged out and she said, "OMG! That's a 6.5 minute mile." I said, "I know. I'll do it." And, you know what? I believe it for the first time. It may not be this year or next, or even the year after, but I'm going to run 5k in less than 25 minutes, and it's going to feel fantastic. I'm feeling a new confidence that I've not felt in a long time. This confidence isn't contingent on other people (I still like for people to notice me, but I have to work on that). This confidence is mine. Physically, I'm seeing some things tha make me happy. I can see the tendons in my wrist ( all of you can too if you read my blog). When I flex my triceps a vein pops up on my forearm. I sometimes drive in the car holding the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand and feeling the vein in my arm with my other hand. It feels like a physical manifestation of my progress. Like I'm a living breathing creature instead of the disgusting pile of filth I've felt like for so long. I can see more definition in my delt, trap, pec juncture. If I shrug my shoulders, the skin over my clavicle sucks in. (this never happened before BFL/T.com) Today, I saw some definition and separation between my shoulder muscle and my biceps muscle on my left arm. It is exciting to see these little physical changes, but I just wish I was at my goal so I could enjoy my body like I never have before. I think that most of all what I've accomplished is this sense of possibility. I now have the sense that i can attain my physical goals, and that if I can do that...I can do anything.

I believe I am right on target as well, I am trusting the process, I have completed the assignments, I am moving through them at a fairly quick pace and feel this is because I have been waiting for this transformation MY WHOLE LIFE and am so very ready to get on with it. I am putting thought into the process and when I read the above, I thought, yes, this is where I am at, this is what I am doing...

Where are you in this process? I have come a long way from that February day when I decided to do BFL again. Actually, I guess my T.com experience did not start until early March, but the first couple assignments were well underway when I got here. I have been dedicated to the meal planning and fitness routine. I never once let anything get in my way of eating right or getting my workouts in. Early morning is best for me to work out - doesn't interfere with evening family activities, and it gets me off to the right start. Eating is always planned and I've taken my free days. When I eat the crap I used to eat, I get irritable, tired, and cranky. Reminds me why eating clean is the right thing to do. Identifying my lowest level habits was pretty easy. I had a lack of confidence that I can continue this. But, now, growing the friendships and relationships online, having the unconditional support and love from everyone in Sharen's group and other members that I have reached out to or who have reached out for me will provide that accountability to me and support when I may need it. There is still that little voice that says I can't do it. I'm still working on squashing it. I'm visualizing myself happier, healthier, skinnier, and hot on the beach this summer. I've done more spiritual and emotional work than I have even done in my life. There has been this wall that I've built up over the years that goes back to childhood. I didn't share emotions or feeling. I never trusted anyone completely. I never expected anything from anyone. My fear of them finding out who I "really am" kept me from doing it. But now with help from Coach, Carolynn, Chris, Sharen, and Sharen's group, I realize I can not change the past, I can forgive myself, I can be forgiven by God. I was afraid if I was not perfect, I could not be loved. I looked for love in the wrong places, thought sex=love, and attached more meaning to some relationships than was there. I threw away all of my trash last week on my run. Left it with the dog crap where it belongs. It was difficult, but I have never felt so freer and light. This week has been different than any other in my 6 week journey so far. I have smiled more, looked co-workers in the eye where I didn't before, been genuinely concerned with them. Asked one how is old foot injury was doing out of the blue and when we were parting, he gave me a heart felt thank you for being concerned. I have been so wrapped up in *me* that I have failed to give. I have been learning to stop being so self centered. I want to give back. I know I will finish this challenge. I know I will do a second, third, challenge. I want to be held accountable, I want to help others looking to transform. I'm not here because it's easy, I'm here because it's hard, and I want that strong, vibrant, healthy, sexy woman to break free. She is so ready to come out of this cocoon, I can feel it.

This assignment is on reviewing, reflecting, and what am I seeing and feeling at this moment... Trusting the process...that is what I am feeling. Yesterday, Coach left me a message on my last blog saying..." Just go with it, continue to trust the process." I have come to place where I am no longer fighting the journey....I have had so many internal battles come up along the way...and I can now look back and honestly say that it was all part of the process...Those hard times were just opportunities to grow. I am feeling alot of peace at the moment....For me the thought of "Slow and steady wins the race". I am no longer feeling all of the stress of "racing" to the finish line. It is not about me beating anyone else. My feeling is calm and collected and ready to do what it takes... in a balanced way. I am a mother and a wife...If I neglect that role....I will not be able to truly transform. I ready to give it my all! I've got my hubby and my boys all on board with me and cheering me on!! This has totally become a family event! I have six weeks left. And we're going for it! :) ~ Marie

I'm in the midst of tightening my belt so to speak. Reviewing assignments, cleaning up, focusing on where I can do better. I need to remember to review 1B & 4 everyday. I get busy with work and life (I know I know...take a number!) #8 has been a struggle, but I think I'm finally getting the upper hand. Really feeling that true transformation is taking hold, but this is going to take a heck of alot longer than 18 weeks! Thanks! - M

I am right on target with what you have described Bill. My life is coming into focus for me. I am noticing color back into my life. I am realizing the beauty around me. I am happy for others success. I am encouraged when I encourage others. I really am feeling as though BE THE CHANGE may just have saved my live. I am eternally greatful to you and the staff here.

I printed out this assignment and took it with me to Europe 2 weeks ago. I was travelling light but wanted to stay focused and connected even though I knew I would not have time to be checking the website or writing. Reading this thoughtful summary every day (or sometimes even just knowing it was there in my bag) was my way of meditating on all aspects of the Transformation. There is so much in those few sheets of paper - a guideline for life!

Wow!! This is really amazing. I have done all the assignments in order and I can truthfully say that I am not the same person that started the challage back on Janurany 5. I know now what I want out of life and I am on the right track of getting it. I now know that there is nothing that I can not do if I just have faith in myself. I am feeling so much better about life and physically there are no words that I can describe to say how much better I am feeling. I might not have lost as much weight as I really wanted to loss by now but that will come. The main thing is that I am happy with who I am. And I have not been able to say that in a long time. This transformation for me is not just my body but body soul and heart.~Donna

I haven't missed any assignments or workouts. Eating has been right on target. I am definitely not the person I was when I started this program over 11 weeks ago. I have so much more energy, more positive of an attitude and my body is much stronger and firmer. I'd like to say that I have a 6 pac abs but that is not the case. I have to remind myself how far I have come and not to get impatient. When I started the program, I decided to start going back to church at 8 am on Sundays. It was a way to replace my old bad routine with a new positive one and I feel that this really helps reinforce my attitude all week. I am finding that I am a person that needs a routine, structure or I will just run a foul and accomplish nothing worthwhile. Goal setting and accomplishing is a confidence booster. Another big change is that I am not living to eat but rather eating to live. I still enjoy my meals but don't eat just to be eating i.e. boredom or what have you.

I haven't "missed" any lessons. Reading the paragraph break down explanation of each assignment it is exciting to see how far I have come already. I have been doing and enjoying the assignments. Approaching them with an open heart, and it has been quite an emotional task. The working out, and eating healthy has been great too. It is certainly the easy part when it comes to this transformation I am making. I'm behind on the assignments. I was hoping to do one a week, and I have put this assignment #10 off for a while. It has seemed kind of unapproachable to reflect on where I’ve come from, and picture what needs to happen before I get to the end of this transformation. I have been imagining what needs to happen now to make the rest of my life happen, and that just seems so serious! Hmm, Take an honest look at where you are now... What am I seeing, and what am I feeling... I feel like I still have a long way to go... And to look at my life, and transformation and try to see the things that need to be done to get where I want to go, honestly it's a bit challenging and even disheartening to see how far I still need to go. I'm trying to remind myself to focus on the great progress I have made, and not be discouraged at how hard reaching this "perfection" seems... More seriously this has been a good time to reflect and remember what I have envisioned at the end of the tunnel here. And recognize I am approaching it. I am also more seriously remembering that I believe in this process, and that if I keep trucking along I’m going to achieve the life I want! I just need to remember to give myself the credit I really deserve, and stay focused on reaching my goals. I feel good about finally getting this assignment completed, and I’m going to try to catch up on the next couple assignments as soon as possible. I need to find the time to get more involved in the community here. I like it. I can see without a doubt the help and encouragement it brings me in my life. I just get so focused on doing things at home, at work, with my pets, and in my life… I think I am still “managing” things, and I’d like to be able to relax, and just enjoy life. Enjoy my pets, Enjoy my job (and work hard at it) I love that I can recognize that I am closer to enjoying these things then I have ever been in my life.

This week’s assignment for me was Assignment #10 – Reflect and Review. As I usually do, I read thru the assignment several times during the week. For most of the items that Bill asked us to reflect on, I can say that I’m doing well. I’ve done the assignments, planned our meals, planned my exercise and have really noticed a “change” in my life. I haven’t lost as much weight as I had hoped I would by now, but in review that is a direct result of fact that I’ve had to work up to exercising at a level many others started out at. The first item in that we were to reflect on is the one that I’ve given the most thought to –“ Know Thyself, Where Thy Stand and Where Thy is Going” I've posted more on this subject on my personal blog. Margaret

I am tracking well with the process right now. I have done every assignment to this point. If there is one thing I need to work on with respect to the assignments in general, it is to remind myself that they build upon the previous in such a way that they need to be kept fresh on a weekly basis and not just set aside once they are completed. While I recited my purpose almost every day, I don’t look at my before photos nearly enough so I sometimes lose sight of where I started and where I plan to end up. Exercise is great…truly the easiest part of this process, though I discovered “another gear” over the past week or so as I really began to tap into those 10’s in the workouts and push myself in a way I haven’t since I was a runner in high school. There is simply nothing like that feeling! Diet is good on the whole, but I need some attention there. My problem isn’t with the 800 calorie type of slipups where I cave in to the cravings and eat half a pizza. No, my problem is the little cheats here and there…the one Girl Scout Cookie, or the handful of trail mix, or the extra bit of regular cheese. I need to find the discipline to look past those things and overcome those little temptations. The one other thing I need to do is simply be more involved in the T.com community. I need to reach out even more than I already have and get to know people better. I need to find more ways to use my talents and experiences to help others with their Transformation, because goodness knows many of them have helped me with their encouragement and outreach. All in all, I’m very pleased with how far I've come to this point, but not nearly pleased enough to even consider staying here. I’m a work in progress, and for progress to continue I still have much work to do!

Just reviewed assignment 10 - reflect and review. Where am I in this process? I can honestly say I have done all previous assignments and have been truthful and honest and open to them. It's pretty crazy by reviewing the past assignments the changes in myself that have taken place since I startedthem . I still have a long way to go go but I feel a change in me growing. Starting this process I was selfish and self absorbed and I am learning how to change that. It feels really good all the progress I have made more so on the inside but I have noticed changes on the outside as well. This time I am focusing on the me inside not the outside. I feel I am finally make a move in the right direction to making permanent changes in my life. Something about this time feels different. I tried transformation before but I never was coachable and open. I thought I knew it all.I find myself looking forward to new assignments and following where they lead me!

Assignment #10 I realize that I have some catching up to do on my assignments! Assignment #10 - Where am I? To be honest I am a little frustrated that I haven't made as much progress as I would like to have made. On a previous BFL Challenge, at this point (12 weeks) I was 30lbs lighter. On this one, I am only 6 lb lighter but have made progress with inches lost. I am not dissatisfied with my progress, but feel like I need to step it up a notch. I have been 100% on my workouts this entire challenge. I haven't missed one. I have committed to myself, my Rightlight Group, and my workout partner at work that I will be 100% on my workouts and I have been. This is a HUGE accomplishment for me. In regards to meals, I have done a pretty good job with staying on task. I might snitch a handful of Cheezits or crackers for no good reason on a non-free day. But I don't beat myself up about it. I do need to do a better job of limiting red wine over the weekend and I realize this. What I didn't do was follow Bill's advice about doing the 4:2 if you have more than 20lbs to lose. It isn't that I don't like cardio - I mean it's not my favorite in the whole wide world, but I just love lifting weights. I have decided that I am going to try running. And I might actually do this today. I went out yesterday and went to a running store to have them help me pick the right shoes. They cost a little more, but with my chronic knee pain and the recently discovered degenerative scoliosis in my lower back, I want to make sure that I do this the right way. I have also committed myself to stretching every night and doing some core strengthening to help with my back. I really do believe it is helping. I know that I wouldn't have been able to accomplish where I am not without the help and encouragement of my tcom family. :) Hugs - Edie

If I am to be honest...I am in transfromation, just not as far along as I would like to me. I still have a long way to go. I am losing weight, more importantly inches and down dress sizes. Most of the time I am choosing foods well, but still have quiet a few slips. I also still slip a lot when it comes to ocerthinking and sabattoging myself. Initially I was obsessive about being in the community and exercising, but schedule, headaches and frustration has made me a little lax. I am working my way back. As long as I am aware of these shortcomings I can work to conteract them. Andrea

where am i in the process? I have completed the assignments thus far. I have revamped my idea of exercise and eating. I am trying very hard to fit working out, eating right and sleeping enough into a hectic graveyard worker's schedule. I was just married to the love of my life. We spent weeks connecting and reconnecting in our relationship prior to the big day. I feel closer than I ever have to my family, his family and him. I feel closer than I ever had to my maker. Part of our process in readying for the wedding included reflection time and bible study. I feel closer than I ever have to being happy and content with myself. I had almost a week off exercise and eating right for the wedding and I feel the backslide very keenly. The good news I take from that is that I like being healthy and I like eating well. I can honestly say it is a first for me. Modifying back to a healthy diet has been easier than ever before. To be honest, I don't know if I would've continued with healthy eating giving a break in the momentum before. I feel strong and attractive and able. I will feel even more so tomorrow after I go for a jog! I also have learned to read labels and aim for the correct mixes of food. I even enjoy cooking these days ! Shocker!!

Q: Where are you in this process? Have you missed an assignment or lesson? Have you done them all? As you carefully and honestly give yourself a moment to review and reflect, what are you seeing and what are you feeling? This assignment is all about awareness and honesty. Share your comment below. Remember, when you do, you’ll be taking another step in the right direction. Bill...I'm Right where I am supposed to be...... When you wrote, "In addition to everything I’ve mentioned so far, I’m becoming the kind of person who is inspired by the success of others. I watch their videos, read their stories, check out their before and after photos, and I’m beginning to feel that when they succeed, somehow I succeed. I recognize that there’s really no competition here; it’s about teamwork and cooperation. We all have the potential to win if we keep moving in this direction. And, as I pause now and look at how far I’ve come, I feel proud, I feel like I’m accomplishing something, I feel that my change may actually end up making a difference. And I’m beginning to feel that “Be the Change” is becoming less of a slogan and more of a mission for me. " Just this week (While continuing assignment six)...I posted how I am seing a difference in my attitude concerning others.....My envy of others has been changing to being inspired by others.....One is Chris (The new Champion)...I really have grown to respect him, and enjoy his story!!!! Also another example is Justin in my accountability group! I am so happy for him and his remarkable results during this Transformation..... And ...Yes!... I am proud of my accomplishments and am greatful that you are showing me the way! I want to continue in sharing the Transformation with my friends and aquaintences.....and I hope to keep my accountability group forever!

Bill, you have eloquently put into words my very thoughts and feelings! I found myself smiling, sometimes through tears, and nodding my head as I read your words. You have such a grasp on what it takes to go through this process, you have described my experience in a way I could never verbalize. Some of the feelings were so deep within me, they've never even come close enough to the surface for me to try. That is, until I read your powerful statements and realized that this is what is driving my transformation. Strong, powerful, focused, confident, determined ... these are not words I would've used to describe myself in the past. But they are words that I'm learning to get comfortable with for use in my future. Thank you for showing me a side of myself that has been buried under a wall of fear and flab for too many years. I am with you for every step of this entire journey! ~Nancy~

Where am I in this process? First off.. I am a totally differant person than I was 12 weeks ago. I eat right (except my free day), I'm full of energy, love life, and believe in myself that I can accomplish anything, I also share with everybody I know about the process that I have gone through to get here and try and get others to join me.. and so far I have!! During my transformation I have not "cheated" on any kind of unclean food except for my free days.. I've only missed one workout, it was my birthday and I had a really bad nosebleed, so I couldn't go anyway. I've lost 30lbs and have gone from a size 18 to a size 10!! I've lost so many inches I can't even keep track anymore! I love this community, before I was a selfish person that could care less about other peoples transformations. Now I get on the T daily to look at other peoples successes and what they have accomplished! It is what has got me through this last 12 weeks! I couldn't have done it without this community! Seeing everybody elses transformations make me want to transform too! I AM THE CHANGE!!!!!!

Bill This IS ABOUT me!!! iT iS me!!!! Ha Ha Ha !! How amazing that we are that predictable!! I guess you know what I am going to type next then right my friend?!?!? That's Right THANK YOU Bill!!!! Your a great guide through the process and your knowledge of the human habit is proof of that!

I can say with a smile that "I am the change". I've been on track from the get go and look forward to each new day. It was a rocky start physically and mentally. This community and my wife helped me get through the first few weeks. Thank you EVERYONE.!! Now I have the motivation not only to continue myself but to help other on this life journey.

T1: I know that I have made some significant improvements. I went down one size – from Petite 6 to Petite 4. I have lost 7 pounds and have consistently kept them off – from 113 to 106. I know I still need to improve in my eating area. I occasionally mess up by eating a little chocolate and backed chips when it is not my free day. I know that is one area that needs to be adjusted to stick to waiting for my Free Day. I do know what needs improvement – my thighs and butt need reduction and firming by doing the exercises. I also need to improve my triceps (the back of my arms so they won’t be flabby. Need to utilize the Body for Life faithfully and not skip those exercises even if I work hard at the gym with a group doing step aerobics and circuit training. The Body for Life exercises are crucial to making me “BE THE CHANGE”. T2: I do take care of my body but know that I can improve. I exercise 5 times a week, strengthening my muscles with circuit training twice a week, personal trainer and intensive step aerobics 3 times a week. I do need to add two more cardio days so I can have 5 cardio days per week. T3: I take my planned lunches and midmeals that consist of protein and carbohydrates. What I need to improve is to pay attention to portions. What I am noticing is that I am drinking too much coffee and not enough water. This will improve going forward. T4: I know why I started this transformation. This is my chance to Be The Change and give others encouragement by example. I will improve in my eating and enhance my exercise as I go forward to fulfill my commitment for life! T5: Tomorrow I will proceed to work hard and eat healthy all the way to the finish line. The next few weeks can make a huge difference and I know I must finish on time. This means work hard and don’t slack off! T6: I thank God for this opportunity to have a community who cares and has the right formula for success and truly reaching my goal. I will continue improving and taking my success to the next level. I truly want a firm, healthy body. T7: I will remove the candy in my office. No one forced me to have candy in the office. Everyone knows I am trying hard to improve. Those chocolate candies will be removed tomorrow when I get to the office. I am also sticking to my noon workout schedule and refuse to let anyone interfere with my lunch workout. This is my time that I have been allowed to take to exercise. This is important to me and my health is so important that I will not give up my exercise to go to lunch. If anyone wants to have lunch, I will invite them to join me to exercise with me instead! T8: I know my weakness. Having chocolate in the office or home and baked chips. This is a bad habit I will replace with good habits. I will go prepared with good snacks to fulfill that urge for chocolate. Before I can have a cup of coffee in the afternoon, I have to make sure I have drunk my 32 ounces of water first. I am going to reread Bill Phillips’ books and follow them to a T. I thank the Transformation community for being there when I tend to slip and also offer help to others during my strong times so I can help others succeed along with me. I am improving, people are noticing, I feel more positive, energetic, running up and down stairs, and walking faster with my tummy tucked in and good posture. I am encouraging others to do their best by my enthusiasm and commitment. I will continue working towards my transformation and “BE THE CHANGE.” How will I do this? First by thanking God for everything and this opportunity, seek his daily guidance, and thank those around me who also are positively making a difference!

I feel very confident about where I am at so far in this process. I have completed assignments 1-9 and have seen so much positive progress. I have made so many changes in the last 10 weeks and my life has become so much better. Before I would weight lift vary casually, rarely do cardio, binge eat, binge drink every weekend, and make so many other poor decisions. As the weeks have gone by I have been able to change all these aspects in my life. I now weight lift consistently 4 times a week, do cardio 2 times a week, eat 6-8 healthy meals a day, and have not drank for almost 7 weeks. I also go to church whenever I can and read the bible. I feel like I have completely changed my life around and wish more people could do the same. It’s an amazing feeling and I do not ever want to live the life I was living before. I am very happy about where I am at in this transformation and plan on improving even more and more as time goes bye. I am so young and looking forward to living the rest of my life healthy, happy, and helping others along the way.

EXERCISE #10: REFLECT & REVIEW It is so refreshing to have an hour to get back to T.com. I have had this assignment generating in my head and in my notebook for several days and just have not had any time to get my thoughts together and actually put it on my blog. T1: Know Myself, Where I Stand, Where I Am Going: I am still getting to know this NEW person that I am becoming. Sometimes I’m the new person, and then other days like the past couple of weeks when I’ve been so incredibly busy and stressed from deadlines the old me tries to come out, and it has been a battle not to let that happen! I know I can’t get rid of all my old thoughts and old habits in 12 weeks when I’ve been developing them for 57 years. I do recognize them when they come, but I haven’t had the time or strength I needed to fight them off completely. Where I stand? I am in Week #12 of this 18 week transformation which is still amazing for me! I’ve had my ups and downs but I am in this for the entire journey! Where am I going? I am going to see this journey through (however long it takes) until I lose the 25 lbs and until I can wear a size 8 and until I AM THE CHANGE! (Progress, not Perfection) Exercising: Up until I went to South Dakota I had exercised 6 times a week every week, but missed a couple of days that day; the following week I missed a couple of days due to being away with all the kids to KidzBlazt; then for these last couple of weeks I’ve had this incredible deadline of getting this book published and doing my taxes, so I only exercised three or four times a week. Inside I am very disappointed that I didn’t keep my initial commitment to exercise 6 times a week … but then I know that life happens, sometimes life is going to be really busy and I can’t do everything as I had planned. I guess I’ve been hung up on the Perfection and not concentrating enough on the Progress area of this. With my exercise history (or lack of one!!!), I should be praising the Lord that I maintained 3 times a week during this very busy time. (Lord, help me to let this go!!! I want to see the Positive, not the negative). Food: This is one area that I do feel confident about. I haven’t had hardly any “unclean” food except on Free Days, and then I still eat mostly clean on Free Days. I’m getting much better on portion control. I like eating 6 meals a day (or sometimes just 5 if I’m busy and lose track of time). I am doing better at getting my water in. I strive for 80 oz per day and always have at least 64 oz. That’s an improvement for me!! My Purpose: My purpose is clear for doing this Transformation and it is to be all that God had planned for me to be before I sabotaged the plan. I want to be an example to others. I want to complete the Transformation and help everyone I can along the way! During my busy weeks I haven’t had time to be on T.com encouraging others, and I think that’s part of the reason why I have felt more negative during this time. It feels so good to be there to help others. My Enemy: ME – the old me (well actually the devil who keeps reminding me of the old me). I am NOT that person any longer. I am a winner, a finisherSometimes when I’m very busy I have skipped starting my day with the Lord, and I HAVE TO put HIM first!!! !! I AM WORTH TAKING THE TIME FOR!! I am still putting the needs of my “job” before my own personal needs (not working out 6 x during deadlines). I plan to keep on transforming until I get these two areas in right priority! Still Learning: I still have so much to learn! I want to learn how to serve the Lord better. I want to learn how to exercise better, how to eat better, how to be healthier, how to help others better. I want to spend more time on here reviewing the Champions and what they did to succeed. I am very grateful to Bill, Clarissa, Stoney and everyone else on here who is teaching me how to be a BETTER ME. Where Am I? I am continuing on with this journey. I’m back on the track and headed in the right direction one day at a time . I have re-focused on the goal line and I have printed more pictures of the “AFTER” me. Let’s roll……

Where am I? I trust the decisions that I now make in my life. How I view myself now is positive, uplifting and inspiring. I do everything possible on a daily basis to have a healthy body, heart, mind and soul by completing all the assignments, planning my day, exercising my body daily and ensuring I nourish my body with healthy foods. I now have a plan and a purpose in life. I am going upward in my journey and what lies ahead is what I let happen. Only GOOD things will happen with the outlook I have on my life. I BELIEVE in ME and God's purpose for my life.

At this point, I am on target. I have completed the assignments, and I am keeping myself in check by posting a daily blog and reviewing others' blogs/profiles/threads to find tips, encouragement, and ways to improve. After reading the statements in Assignment #10, I know for sure that is describing my journey. The changes I am making are not temporary, but permanent. I have seen and felt how nourishing my body improves my well-being. I know that exercising is not a "chore" but a blessing. I have so much more ahead of me, and I am looking forward to each step of the way!

Where are you in this process? I have been thinking this very same question in my head for the past week or so. I have completed every assignment given to me by Bill up to this point bu honestly feel that I should go back and regroup. By regrouping I mean I should read all my assignments again and verify to myself that each individual assingment was written and expressed with 100% focus, compassion, and integrity to what I really feel inside. I will honestly say there have been some stumbles, (week 5), and I have picked myself up since then. Yet, I know I am putting my all out effort to my transformation and to my community. It's just the matter now of policing mself and focusing on progressing forward, not backward. So... I'm here, up to date, and focused on what I need to do day by day. I'm going strong and honestly think of little else. I am "BEING THE CHANGE"!!!

Yep, on target...I've been at this...wow! end of my 7th week and am just charged! I'm still working on the food portion...making sure I've got the balances down so that no matter where I am or in what environment I eat properly. The work outs are amazing and my husband is enjoying the weight lifting with me. I'm focused and incredibly, being the change I've been searching for for years! I am happy, focus and feel great.

I am catching up after "falling behind" for about 7+ weeks! I had completed Assignemnts # 1-6, but had not GIVEN MYSELF fully to the Process. I WAS RESISTING! I was scared. Last weekend (March 1st) I made "THAT" Change and now I am MOVING FORWARD at a crazy fast pace!! The Assignments are now "coming" EXACTLY when I need them and in accordance to what I am going thru so I feel on track, and since my Faith & Belief is in My Lord..I know I'm exactly where I am supposed to be :)

As my 10th week comes to a close I am happy to say I have completed all my assignments. I am very pleased with my results so far. Not only am I becoming a stronger person on the outside, I am changing on the inside as well. Three months ago I could have cared less about my health. I was spinning out of control with no direction in life. All I wanted to do was retreat to my bedroom and hide my head under my pillow. After 10 weeks of trusting the transformation process I am proud to boast the following result: • 37 pounds lost (starting weight 249, currently 212) • Blood pressure 123/79 (started at 149/98) • Cholesterol 186 (started at 230) • Body fat currently 22% (started at 39%) • Complexion clear • Size 34 jeans (started out stuffed in 38’s) • Up at 5 am each morning to workout and loving it • Sticking to my meal plan with no free day! (so far) • Becoming stronger with each workout. (currently benching 245 lbs) • Stamina at an all time high (45 min elliptical session 6 days a week) • No knee pain • No headaches • No stress • Much improved attitude • Feel worthy • Feel loved • Feel hope • Feel determined • Concentration has improved • Memory has improved • Relationships have improved Over all I have a ton of energy and look forward to living each day to the fullest. I am so grateful to have such a great network of great support and inspiration here at T.com. I am looking forward to my next 8 weeks of transforming! Greg :)

Knowing where I stand after week 9 – a good hard and honest look at myself – both inside and out. Physical Changes: Positive changes with no missed workouts through 9 weeks! Went from 186lbs to 172lbs and my body form has been changing. I haven’t checked cholesterol, but my blood pressure is 112 over 66 - the lowest I can remember. Along with my workouts, I have been consistently running a 10k each Saturday AM – my goal was to run a race in <60minutes and my last training run was 57:41! Positive progress! The only draw-back right now is that I seem to have developed a hernia and will need to shut down the workouts for a few weeks while I recover from scheduled surgery on 3/27. I still plan on doing a 10k race in May before my initial 18 weeks ends. I have also added Yoga a couple of times each week (also temporarily on hold) – at least once per week in a class and at least once from the house. The most important thing about the workouts and eating right for me has been they keep me grounded and motivate me to keep in-line on the more important transformation I am going through – the one on the inside. Spiritual / Mental Changes: Without a doubt – the spiritual/mental changes are the most important and central part of my transformation. Each day I spend in some quiet meditation or reading/studying to get closer to an enlightened state helps me take another step closer to true Being. I have prayed before, I have participated in a number of different church services and even toured with a Christian music group, but I have never before felt closer to understanding and feeling the inner spirit and a connection with others and to a higher-being. I have spent most of my life living through past experiences, living the “act” I thought I was supposed to, and projecting a future based on some reality I was creating. All of this had led to more negative energy than positive – more selfishness than outpouring of love toward others… and all of this had to do with fear, ego and pride. I am not home free yet, but I have been making some serious progress and the changes are exciting – they feel good! And they feel right! ------------------------------- Have you missed an assignment or lesson? Have you done them all? As you carefully and honestly give yourself a moment to review and reflect, what are you seeing and what are you feeling?: Yes – but not at first… Initially I tried to rush through a couple of the assignments but I found out that this really shut down my progress and I struggled for answers. I now allow for the assignment to settle and let the answers come out freely – more honestly and I no longer “edit” the outcome. So What Does It All Mean?: I can honestly say, that today I am already feeling like a different person. I have never in my life been able to let go and not micro-manage everything – feelings, actions, other peoples’ actions, etc. I thought that letting go would stress me out because of the unknown. What I have found is that I feel relaxed because I let go – I feel more connected to everything around me because I am not worried about managing everything. I am finally allowing myself to feel and experience things. My happy seems more happy than ever before; my downs are less down because I am making progress in living in the Now, not in the past or some projected future. I am excited to move onto the next assignments and continue my journey. The man I was on Week 1 had no idea what the man in Week 10 would feel like – or else I would have started a lot this journey a lot earlier… Namaste - Robert

Q: Where are you in this process? Have you missed an assignment or lesson? Have you done them all? As you carefully and honestly give yourself a moment to review and reflect, what are you seeing and what are you feeling? This assignment is all about awareness and honesty. Share your comment below. Remember, when you do, you’ll be taking another step in the right direction. I am still with the program, but I have been struggling with staying totally committed. I have been really great with my workouts and have even increased my cardio a lot. I have been struggling with my eating though. I am eating healthier, but I am still struggling to eat less. My husband told me that I should be eating less for my portions. I just have a hard time because I like food and I get anxious. It's hard when I cook a lot of food and just only eat a little bit. I am also struggling with watching the scale stay at 186 and either go up or go back to 186. IT's really hard to stay motivated when that happens. I do know though that I am looking better and I'm feeling a lot better. My clothes are slowly getting bigger and I'm seeing more tone everyday. I'm weird though and sometimes I think I'm skinnier than I am. I must have really just been in denial before. Even when I took my last pictures, I was looking for even more progress. I get frustrated because I feel like my legs are huge and will always be that way. No matter what, I am sticking with this program. I have battled several hard things so far. I still have a broken foot, my parents separated, and my husband lost his job. It has been hard to not want to go back to all my old habits. I will not quit though and I will make it to the end. I just don't know how I'm going to loose at least 30 lbs when I've only lost 5 now after 7 weeks.

Where are you in the process? I have completed all of the assignments up to this point. I have taken Bill’s suggestion about hand-writing my assignments and I feel it commits them to my mind better than just typing them out. In reviewing the last 9 assignments and having just started week 10 I am so amazed at the changes I see in my life and the lives of others in this community. Looking back at assignment #1 I almost feel as if I don’t know that person anymore. I know I have a ways to go to get to my “after” but the progress made in 9 weeks, physically, spiritually, emotionally and mentally is remarkable. I can hardly imagine what I will be like in week 18. Actually yes I can because I am practicing visualization and focusing on that after goal! J Exercising and eating nutritious has become a way of life for me now, a habit. I enjoy both of these things and love reaping the benefits of putting healthy foods in my body and strengthening and taking care of my body. I am aware of my purpose, something I often struggled with in the past. This purpose is changing as I am changing. Although I have become more comfortable with the process (less resisting) I am still proceeding with the sense of urgency set by my timeline and deadline. One of the biggest progress areas for me has been to focus on progress and not perfection. A former perfectionist this has been huge for me but I am getting it and loving it. I have struggled my whole life to live in such a way that I was never created to live. The freedom and energy that comes from focusing on positive progress rather than beating myself up for never reaching perfection is unbelievable and such a radical shift - one that I am enjoying. I am a lighter, freer person with more success because of this. I have made changes both to my external environment and my internal environment. I plan my meals and workouts, keep nutritious food in the house and around me. I spend less time doing “mindless” activities like watching TV and spend more time with my family fully engaged and with the supporting community here at T.com. Internally I have become so much more aware of what goes on in my mind and my thoughts. I am learning to replace negativity with positive thoughts and truth. I am also aware of my lowest level habits and am working to change those and make them areas of strength in my life. I have always been someone who loves learning and makes myself open to learn from so many. I have learned so much from so many people here in the community. Everyone has something to give. I do my best to reach out to others and offer my love, encouragement and support. I am greatly inspired by the success of others and am so grateful for the examples set out before me by so many different people. Looking back through all of these assignments and through the past 10 weeks I am really proud of myself. I have so much more confidence in myself and the fact that I will reach my goals. I have accomplished things that at the beginning I didn’t necessarily believe I could accomplish. I believe in myself and in others. I am more honest, real and genuine. I am a more loving, joyful and energetic person. I am closer to my family. I have a better relationship with God as I spend time in fellowship with Him regularly and continue to surrender myself to Him and learn to trust Him. What an amazing journey I am on! I am excited for what the future holds! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I am so pleased with the changes that have been made in my life. Emotionally, physically and spiritually, I have seen incredible improvements. Physically, I am down two dress sizes which feels great! Emotionally, I have made huge strides and am learning a whole new way to approach whatever life sends my way. Spiritually, my faith has exploded which is awesome. Finally, I pursue peace on a daily basis and try to learn a lesson from every thing life throws my way. My relationships have improved greatly!!! What a blessing that is. I guess what i am saying is that things keep getting better and I am making progress without worrying about perfection. i am focused on living each day at a 10. No more harboring resentments, anger or pain. No more looking back. I am finally FREE. Now I am focused on soaking life in and spreading my message and continuing to make improvements whereever necessary. Like Joyce Meyer says, "I may not be where I want to be but I sure ain't where I used to be!!! Praise God for that! lol God is Good and so is T.Com!

It is rewarding to reflect and do an honest review of the challenge up to this point. I have done all the assignments up to this point. The beauty of self reflection is that it allows me to really see! I know what to do and do it most of the time as far as feeding myself and exercising. the most significant transformation in my life has been the spiritual growth and attitude change. I am a completely changed person, I feel energized and alive purposefully living. I find beauty and joy everywhere in everything. I love my life, and look forward to share my joy with anyone I contact each day. I get excited each day to BE the CHANGE....like yeah a new day who can I make a difference with kind of day.....thanks for this E-ticket ride!!

Assignment # 10 Where am I in the process? I am working at a pace that works for me. I am utilizing my BFL journal and wll be on day 50 as of Monday. I can't believe I have come this far yeah!!! I have printed out each assignment and have them in a special folder so that I can read them at anytime. I have found that i am participating more. I have even shared my anxiety disorder in one of the forums. I am healing my body mind and soul. I am finally smiling again! I feel very happy and I am seeing progress regarding my weight and not just the physical weight. This last week was a bit rough for me with missed workouts and things not going as planned but I am back on track now and ready to start week 9. I am aware that my journey has just started my flame is small but it is definatley there! I accept that I must be patient and consistent with my new lifestyle changes. I promise to be kind to myself even when the roads get rough and things do not go as planned. I promise to reach out to others and practice the universal law of reciprocation. I have my vision!!! and I reaching it! Love to all Liz

A funny thing just happened to me. I read assignment 10 last night. Today I was just bloging and was going to be asking for support because I feel like I've hit a platue with my spirituality. As I was writing, I realized that I was writing the positive things that I've noticed throughout the transformation, as well as areas so far that I feel I need to work on....then I realized that I just did assignment 10 by stating where I was in the transformation...I didn't realize it until I was finished...LOL I love this transformation. Now I know where I stand, and what needs to be worked on..."Trust the Process"

I am ready for the next assignment

I have completed all assignments up this one, and additionally assignment 14. I have set aside time to review my purpose, my goals, and my lowest level habits in order to assure that I am addressing the greatest priorities in my life. I am amazed and humbled with the rapid progression of changes in my life, the spiritual awakening that has driven them, and the growth that I have enjoyed with the help of God, my family, my friends, and my fellow transformers. I am learning to listen for God's voice and guidance in my life. I am actively seeking sources of inspiration and likewise, for ways to inspire others. In the limited time I have with my children I am more present than I have been in years. I have gained faith that my life has purpose and I am actively working to fulfil that purpose. I am consistently exercising six times a week. I am consistently pushing myself to higher levels of intensity with each exercise session. I am aware of improvements in my outward appearance and I am striving to continue them in a consistent and deliberate manner. I am eating nutritious and properly proportioned meals every 2-3 hours of my waking days. I am avoiding foods that trigger binge eating. I am learning to enjoy the preparation and cooking of healthy meals, rather than just the consumption of them. I have reduced my caffeine intake and increased my water through the day. I have relegated soda and sugared drinks to free day indulgences only. I am enjoying a wide variety of fresh vegetables at least twice a day. I am aware of my reasons for change, and review them several times each day. I acknowledge that as I evolve my reasons may change. I am prepared to review them periodically so that I continue to proceed with a strong sense of purpose. I am making measureable progress toward the achievement of my goals. I have not smoked. I have not used nicotine replacement therapy since 7 days before the targeted date. As goals are met, I am reviewing them and setting new goals that are consistant with becoming the man I envision. While I understand that I am not perfect, I look for signs of positive progress every day. I have removed all tobacco paraphenalia from my home. I have disposed of all foods in my home which create challenges for my self-control. I have enlisted the help of my closest friends and family members to help me remain accountable to continued progress. I have attended the Lenten learning series at my church without fail, learning to hear God speak and coming to know the members of my new church home. I have spoken openly with my priest, seeking his guidance and prayer in my journey. I have identified my lowest level habit and am making honest effort to correct it. I am committed to periodic review of my low level habits with the understanding that the habit which is lowest may change as I address other low habits. I am open to learning from all of the people in my life, and am actively seeking lessons from the people I am exposed to. I am striving to regularly acknowledge the people that contribute to my learning with a heart felt thank you. I am present, and making an effort to know and acknowledge where I am in all areas of my life from day to day.

I have completed all assignments to this one and #14....I am fully engaged in my transformation with total awareness of where I began, what I am doing and the vision of what and where I will be in the future. I am involved with my groups, I am working with partners, I am on chat, blogging, watching videos, reading books, listening to radio broadcasts, talking with champions, and I am in a battle to a new renewal of life. I am becoming more and more happy each day. Excercising is so much a part of who I am now that it is a lot like oxygen. I am completely overcome by the graciousness and kindness of my fellow TCOM family. How can you fail when there are so many striving to conquer to be successful and not only that, but this massive community of love are all right there behind you. How can you fail when you see your wife's eyes sparkle as her husband begins to shed the burdens of being overweight and low self esteem. How can you fail when you know our Father in Heaven has created you with abilities and talents, and wanting you to be strong, healthy both physically and mentally. How can you fail when a humble man blessed with an ability to reach down, open his arms and than give you the tools, resources, love, and a community to see you through the bumps, hardships, and valleys (Thank you Bill). I am lifted in spirit by all the profiles, and blogs of achievement, and my heart is touched by the stories of our struggles. Yes Bill I can honestly and sincerely say I am "Being The Change" in my life and reaching out to others as well. I will see you at the end with a smile, a hug, and a full report of "MY STORY". Thank you for all of it.............................. ~~Derek

Where am I in this process? Excellent question! I am at the top of the mountain! I am overlooking the abyss below. I have come , crawling at times, to the top. I can proudly say that I have done all the assignments, up to this one. I am working on the rest. I feel like I have come so far in this last week. I no longer hope that I can do this. I KNOW that I can! I also know that I will complete the 18 weeks. I will see great results. I have been able to think of little else. I am so excited! I can't wait! xoxo, Terri

The other day I was standing in the middle of the kitchen with a gallon of milk, my four girls eating dinner, my husband still at work, when I realized that I wasn't waiting for bed time. It was just one instance of many that made me realize I am finally starting to enjoy doing things, rather than getting them done. I have been working all the assignments so far and see progress in every aspect of my life. On January 1st when I started I wanted this to be over as fast as possible. Now, I know it will never be over for me. This is my life now. I believe in the concept of eternal progression and while I'm not where I want to be yet, I'm on my way there. Thank you Bill, Juliane

It was so uplifting to read all the postive things that I should be doing and feeling and be able to say Yes, I am there, I am doing it, and yes I have come so far. I do believe that this is only the beginning though. I can honestly say with all my heart that I have come just as far on the inside as I have on the outside. The outside, I lost inches and pounds which gives me the confidence needed to carry on, but there is not much comparison to what has happened on my inside. I believe the inside is the key to the outside! My spiritual growth has brought me the farthest in these last 10 weeks. I have learned so much about God and myself that I cannot fail. I have found my spirit and soul in this tranformation, which in return has giving me all the tools I need to succeed in anything I choose to do. What I choose to do is be the best mother, wife, teacher, coach, friend, co-worker, sister and daughter. All these can be found with my trust and friendship I have in the Lord. He is my hope, love, inspiration, dreams, and power inside me that I need every day to carry me on this awesome journey called life.

Where am I: I am on the path to the me I want to be and I'm doing the hard work, both emotionally and physically. I am changed, and these lessons and this environment have been the catayst.

This is such a powerful assignment. I have come very far since Jan 1. From a mostly negative, un-trusting person to a mostly positive person who trust enough to share my deepest thoughts and emotions. I'm faithful to the gym yet listen to my body for signs of over-work. I follow BFL but am not so strict that I will want to give it all up at the end of 18 weeks. I have to be able to live this for life. In the last few weeks though, my purpose has really changed. It started out as just a physical thing, then moved to the place where I could see I needed some emotional healing. Now I really want to see you hand that check over to the CFF in such a bad way. I find myself visualizing that more than I visualize my new body and attitude. You with Nissa in front of the crowd, me in the back watching her tears of joy. It's beautiful. My enemies are laziness and procrastination. My perfectionism is also on that list and I'm winning against them all. Best of all, I'm learning to ask for help. My AG is wonderfully supportive and I've not been too embarrassed to go the champs for advice... something I wouldn't have done 6 months ago. Thank you again for giving us this powerful tool to become better peopel.

Transformation Exercise # 10 Mission: “To Reflect and Review upon the entity, presently in the form of Mike.” T1: Know Thyself, Where Thy Stand and Where Thy is Going THIS I KNOW ABOUT THE SELF: I’ve been born a child of God, taken form, to work upon my evolution, my return back to the Source. The universe breathed me out; now I am breathing me back in. I’m asleep but awakening, THIS I SEEK: Returning home to my Source, attempting consciously to make that return as a gift to my Lord for bestowing this great adventure consciousness upon me. Knowing and accepting, it’s all done in steps (the microcosm) to the goal (macrocosm.) T2: Exercising Care for the Physical Form THIS I DO: With no alternatives left, in desperation, and a modicum of hope, I awake and perform penance in the delightful form of exercise. I sweat; I peal off the layers of sloth, loss, and despair. I workout with the Angel of Water in my being and big brother, the Sun upon my face. Without this body, I can not make manifest nor evolve and follow my path. A warriors mind to reawaken, not surrender. “Man Know Thyself,” must start with Mike “heal thyself” My bones, my blood, my skin, my heart, my mind are the mountains, rivers, winds and soil of “my world” the earthbound world from which I come forth. I must respect this chariot bestowed upon me by my Great Mother the female essence of my God. She gave birth so my Father may be proud in my ways. So I must try. T3: Feed the Body the Right Way THIS I CONSUME: My foundation is the “rock (Eben)” upon which I must construct my home. A home both light and airy, open to all the wonders of life and love yet prepared and capable of taking a Cat-5 on a moments notice. My mortar and stone shall be lean, clean, gentle, healthy foods, reinforced with the addition of the “lost” materials no longer found in our society and it’s many forms of “terminal foods.” T4: Know Your Purpose MY PURPOSE: To brake my freefall, reverse my downward spiral and again use the “involution” coiling of my life’s “spring” in preparation to yet another outward “evolutionary” expansion into my yet to be known, unknown. To become not only a candle in the dark limiting my own journey in this valley but hopefully to also illuminate stumbling stones of those by my side. T5: The Power of Positive Pressure I MUST: push, as nature does, myself, so stagnation finds no toe-hold, to coat my pores and become the culture of death on my being. Accept that to grow is to strain, like that of a budding leaf stretching to the sun, I can feel it’s pain in needing to grow closer and know I MUST PUSH to be PULLED! T6: Look for Progress, Not Perfection I KNOW WHAT I DON’T KNOW: and that is good, it is wise and safe, and I “WILL” myself to be happy in that wisdom. That wisdom of awareness that while knowledge is within me I am but just a drop in the ocean of the total understanding that exists. My “Progress” is boundless and as unrestricted as the Body of God itself. Forever growing, expanding, engulfing.., it is the way. I will be happy on the journey, for that is where I am on the road again. T7: Be in the Right Environment I SEE: The “Forest” cleared thus I can now see the trees. My foundations set and like a wise builder I must clear a “fire-brake” about my home, allowing no embers of chaos to land upon my roof, destroying all that has been built. No weeds to chock my sustenance, no flies about my table distracting in their consument attachment to dead like issues. That I encourage strong humans to build close, as good neighbors and discourage others to settle close but rather pick another site to sit upon. I clear my house, my mind, my space so Love, Light and Power may fill its void. From within I shall “Look” out using my “windows” and “door” upon the arrival and welcoming of both storm or tranquil day, being prepared to either “batten” or “bolster”. T8: Know Thy Enemy I HAVE LEARNED: There is “nothing” to fear (the great anvil of darkness) but “FEAR” itself. I’ve learned “Fear” cannot abide in the light of consciousness, nor in the soul of Knowledge and only within my own “unconsciousness” can it’s seed take root, thus I’m that, THE enemy, a portal to the darkness “I am” both the gate and it’s keeper, who must take responsibility “to seal the door where evil dwells!” Death (Oh great enemy and Father of Fear) I’ve stared you in the eye and you are of myself. From this knowledge I “pluck you, most offensive enemy, from without my being” In so doing I “create” “making manifest” my way home, fearing no ambush. T9: Always a Student LEARNING TO LEARN: is upon me once again. Like the Inner coil of a wall clock I cannot always provide my own winding to keep myself in harmony with the Universe. I must both seek and allow, other entities, and their experiences to aide in winding, ever tighter, the mechanism that when released emits order and gentle rhythms into my world. MY INVOCATION UPON MYSELF : “I evoke upon myself the right, the duty and the ability to allow others to inspire my being by their success!” And I know in the reality “of THAT that is,” we are all but “little bays” harboring the same waters of the “Great Ocean” constantly ebbing and tiding within our beings, providing a constant “freshness” of nutriments for our own inner “eco-systems growth.” If one falls and I don’t assist, then we all fall, and if I fall and am left so will those that passed have to return one day to aide me. For I KNOW “All is in all and all are in the ALL.” What else is there to know? Humans “We either live or die together, it’s Mankind’s choice,” Not some other entities choice but ours, yours and mine. Peace to the World and peace to my-Self. Mike

Assignment #10 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I am in a place of complete awareness. For the past decade I have numbed out to the world just to cope and deal with so many of the dark things that have occurred in my life. From losing my mom's twin sister, to a cousin committing suicide, to an aunt suddenly passing from brain cancer, and another aunt passing from medical mistake. I have endured SO MUCH LOSS in this past decade. That loss suffocated me in a way we all know as comfort eating and compounding weight issues. The single most difficult place to be in life is in a divorce. Been there. The most difficult thing I've ever done is to jump back into that situation emotionally and find out WHY it failed and WHAT PART I PLAYED in the marriage failing. Who wants to look at what we did wrong? I know that for many of us now that is exactly what we are doing to push through to find that spiritual awareness and presence in our daily lives and routine to find wholeness with ourselves. Where I am is a place of awareness. I am fully aware of why I am where I am today - through choices in life. I didn't LIVE my life, I exsisted for those around me, but not within me. I stepped out of my body and allowed others to drive my decisions in life (ie;school, marriage, business, etc). I woke up the morning after my cousin (only ten days older than me) had committed suicide (he killed himself on New Years Day 07') and was finding myself questioning WHY? Why would you take your life? What could be so bad? Then I began to ask myself why I wasn't living mine. This process is a journey of spiritual awakening and finding the truth of who you are and what your capable of being in life. We, as adults, tell our children they can be anything in life they want to be, but do we truly believe that if we're not living authentically? Where I am is a place of awareness - I am LIVING, I am BREATHING, I am EXERCISING, I am AWARE, I am a WARRIOR SPIRIT, I am a MOTHER, I am a WIFE, I AM A SUPERWOMAN - YES I AM!!! I AM RIGHT WHERE I WANT/NEED TO BE

Wow, I just realized how far I've come. I can honestly say that I've done every exercise, and the description that I just read is my personal experience. I feel so great, and I love it =)

This is a great night to do this assignment! I am feeling such a "gratitude high" after increasing all my UBWO weights tonight and having a fabulous time at the gym with my sweet husband. (He hot tubbed while I worked out!) Life can't get any better than this, can it? :) I am starting to really see changes and other people are too. Biggest change: MY ENERGY! I have some. I'm having fun. Life is good!

I have been reviewing my progress over the last fue days and making some adjustments. Overall I'm doing great! I feel like i'm getting younger everyday. Every morning when I awake, I thank God for giving me this chance to change my life, and putting this joy in my day. Terry

Thanks for the review of the first assignments....I'm going to print it off and read it weekly, so I can remember where I have come from and where I am going....I've done and re-done the first nine assignments....I'm ready to move onward and upward....Right now, I am in a GREAT place....I am in love with my life....I hadn't been for so long....I know I am on the right path in so many areas of my life now and I can't wait to see the improvement in this areas, along with others in the future....I love the t-com community; what it stands for and who we are here.....Thanks Bill for all that you have brought to us.....you have given the people here (and those that will come in the future) the platform to be our best self's......not just a better self -- but our best self.....why would anyone not want to be their best....well, I say that easily now....I understand where we have all come from and that is in the rearview mirror now....I'll always have the postcards from where I used to be, but I never want to go back (don't even want to visit).....stay strong and keep on keepin'on.....~ brett

I am in an amazing place. I have changed in ways that I thought I never could. I know that I have become a more attentive mom and wife. I am a better employee. I listen more to others. I have slowed down and really begun to absorb the world around me. I am eating better on a more consistant basis. My relationship with God has become more intitmate. I started reading the Bible. I have decided to become involved in martial arts. This has led me to discontinue the gym. This was a difficult decision for me but I needed to move on. My goal is to obtain my black belt and then become a teacher of the sport. I have let me past go. This was my main reason for joining the Transformation. I kept blaming everything on my painful childhood and my parents. I have always pointed the finger at them for how things have turned out for me. Not that its bad but I wanted more. My parents are good people in general and they have their own childhood demons to deal with. I made peace with all of that and I am now living in the present. I am enjoying where I am in life, something I have always wanted. I know I have a lot more work to do, but the place that I am at now is so much better than where I was 10 weeks ago. Thank you all at T. Community for your support and wisdom.

I am here, now, and fully present! I have done the prior assignments and feel a sense of accomplishment. However, I know that in the grand scheme of things...this is still just a beginning. I am on a journey for life. My goal, my plan...is permanent positive change. I am already parenting better. I am teaching with more enthusiasm. When I warm up class, everyone responds. I know right away who is there with me to put in our best and who is hoping to go through the motions. My goal is to inspire everyone to put in their best in class and in life. My daughters are noticing a change in me...not just physically, but in my energy and attitude. They watch me deal with pain daily, and now are watching me overcome obstacles. I am a work in progress...I am change...positive change. Thank you Bill! Thank you everyone on this site for all of the inspiration!

I am up to assignment 10. I sometimes get stuck on one for awhile and I know that is an important one for me! I feel so much more confident about myself it's amazing. I am looking people in the eye and starting conversations like my old self. I was not able to run at the beginning of this transformation and now I can run 3.5 miles and feel fantastic! I have made some wonderful new friends here and at my new adventure at school. I am maintaining a positive attitude in the face of not having a job in times of monetary unrest in the nation. I am choosing not to participate in the recession! (Thank you Joe P) I have been working out 6 times a week almost every week on this 10 week journey...I actually feel tired when I don't get a work out in. I have been eating clean for 6 days and cooking healthy meals for my family. I am achieving my goals and making new ones along the way. I am making a difference in mine and my boyfriends relationship, which in turn affects my sons environment and life. I feel good again...thank you Bill. Jennifer

I'm feeling good about my progress. I have seen many changes in my life. I'm more organized and more focused. I'm clearer on what is most important and things are falling into place. I find that I'm using my time way more efficiently and continue to have a burning desire to live my life as fully as I can. Even though I'm feeling and seeing progress I know I'm wanting more. I'm planning to step things up a notch for the next weeks of my transformation.

THis is so funny. I just did this on my own before reading the assignment. Read my blog for today for the proof...

Reflecting on where I am where I am going, I am excited. There are so many wonderful points of progress. I am still working on my purpose. I am in a serious time where I am needing to change my career. My purpose is important to setting my career path. I am loving this transformation and each of these steps has been revealing about myself and what I need to work on and that the change is real and worthwhile.

I have done the assignments prior. What I'm seeing is progress. What I'm feeling is I need to push harder. I am hard on my self. I should be a lttle easier on my self. Shoot I have to by clothes the belt is not enough to keep my pants up. I should video this. I think I will.

Every thing you wrote describes where I am. I know I am the only person that can change my situation. No excusses and no one else to blame but myself. But the most amazing change for me is that I beleive I can change myself. This is such a new concept for me and its amazing. I am setting goals now that I will actually finish. No more quitter talk out of me.

Where am I in the process? I have given myself 100 percent to this challenge! I have lost 23 pounds in 8 weeks and gone from a size 26 dress to 20 dress so far. I still cant believe the scale is reading 238 and not 262.5 like I was when I STARTED! I just experienced the hardest thing I have ever experienced in my life and am STILL processing it and thats the loss of my Precious Mother! She is my HERO! I intend to finish strong for HER!!!!!!!!!!! Miss her SO MUCH! GOD is with me! Health is so IMPORTANT! My mother struggled with her weight all of her life. She got her stomach stapled as well and her life was deeply effected by her weight. Being overweight caused her to be high risk for surgery and other things. She had lost 30 pounds and yet still weighed 268 I think it was. She was so young as well 67. I miss her and truly want to dedicate the rest of my challenge to HER! My mother is the real hero!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Shari!

I have done all the assignments and just reviewed my original answers to them! Even though this last week was rough I realize that I have been changing and am changing. My vision is more real, my heart is in this and I am NOT QUITING. There are a lot of behaviors and perceptions being changed! I can see it as it is happening at times by the choices I make and how I respond to the adversity rather than react and act out to it! YAY! Great lesson Bill. This is a great mission! :)

I have completed this assignment and posted it on my blog. It is lengthly so I will try and sum it up here as well. I've gone back to my purpose for review. Then I specifically made note of what I'm seeing and feeling at this point in the transformation. I see something really beautifull coming together with what I am learning and experiencing. The way I feel today is energetic due to what I have been experiencing so far in this transformation. I definitely see and feel PROGRESS! My cup is filling, and I am anxious to be able to give and share in a more positive way. The process that we are all going through right Now could not have really transpired so smoothly without the help and support of Transformation! I feel pretty strongly about that! Thank you all!!!!

I’ve completed all of the assignments, but I feel like I can add more to assignment number four now. After Bill’s radio show a couple weeks ago, he talked about the power of actually putting pen to paper to write assignments. I had started writing blogs more than writing in my journal, and I forgot how powerful it really is to write stuff down with an actual pen on a real piece of paper. So on the flight to CA last week, and pretty much throughout the whole trip, I wrote in my journal ALOT. I started writing about assignment one: where I was and where I was heading. This led me into writing about why I’m doing this challenge, and I was able to add some more reasons to my initial purpose: • I’d like to be a contributing part of this Transformation “project” for the rest of my life. • I will be able to assist and guide other people who want to make healthy changes in their lives. • I can do this transformation one day at a time, one decision at a time. • I want to inspire others. • I enjoy the t.com community and fellowship. It’s like an OA or AA fellowship of people who share struggles and desires and who are willing to put their faith in a program that’s worked for hundreds of people already. • I can incorporate what I’m learning from this challenge into what I teach at school, since I’m going to be a P.E./Health teacher. Those are all reasons that motivate me to continue moving forward in this challenge. It seems like more reasons keep coming up though, so I’ll probably be adding more.

Assignment #10 Today on Feb 24, 2009 starting at 10:58 a.m. E.S.T. , I’ve made the choice to be responsible and complete this assignment on an empty stomach, after creating “weight water” video updates, and before going to the gym. At first, I was a little delayed when submitting assignments. Yes, I admit that, because being the change and inspiring someone else positively requires 1st hand to be honest with yourself and with others. This I publicly acknowledge. Just the other day, I openly admitted that I had a strong addition for “trees” in the past, and that YES, I did have some when I first started this transformation challenge. While I have not had any [trees] at all after joining the gym, I’m not quite sure now how long it’s been since I had it. So, being a man is admitting to what needs to be corrected on my behalf “without any shame calling myself out” and moving forward with life progress, which involves transforming in ways unimaginable. Warming up to Transformation.com after joining, it gave me a lot to think about, in terms of spirituality, maturity, responsibility and relationships. Engaging in this transformation challenge helped me to see it more as “working hand in hand to help someone else succeed from seeing what I am doing and my humble rebuilding” , rather than “my body is going to look better than yours when I’m finished my 18 week transformation”. . Progressing deeper into the assignments, I’ve noticed I started becoming slowly more organized, in terms of thinking more about responsibility, consistency, while knowing these are baby steps taken to improve the quality of life I could be living not long from now, if I apply myself wholeheartedly. As I completed assignment #9 early this morning in the wee hours, I noticed at the end of Assignment 9 it said we have 3 days to complete assignment #10. In feeling sincere hope that I am not only bettering myself physically, while knowing I have a long way to go spiritually, I didn’t want to give myself any slack here on waiting till the 3rd day to complete this assignment. Besides, I like to write and express my thoughts, and it’s this to me is apart of honest self expression. I’m enjoying doing this transformation, because it helps me to be honest with myself, comfortable around others online, while helping to bring out the better man in me, hoping I can potentially move out of mom’s house this year too and get back on track with everything!

Have you missed an assignment or lesson? Have you done them all? As you carefully and honestly give yourself a moment to review and reflect, what are you seeing and what are you feeling? This assignment is all about awareness and honesty. Share your comment below. Remember, when you do, you’ll be taking another step in the right direction. I have done every assignment up to this point. I’m feeling really good. Most every day, I am unstoppable. Anything that comes up, I can deal with. Life happens on life’s terms but it doesn’t hook me anymore. I deal with change powerfully. I create my day and my vision for my life every day. I succumb less every day to my lower habits and instead find myself taking joy in connecting with the people in my life and all of my new friends on Transformation.com. The daily progress assignment has been very valuable to me. Looking everyday for forward movement has been amazing. Some days I have felt resistance to doing it but most days I’m actively looking for progress through out my day so that I have something to write about at the end of the day. This has created a positive point of view that has me looking at what I’ve accomplished rather than what I didn’t. It’s awesome!

I HAVE DONE AL THE ASSIGNMENTS UP TO NOW.I AM CHANGING FROM THE INSIDE OUT. THIS HAS NOT BEEN EASY BUT, I KNOW I AM GOING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION. I NEED TO REFOCUS MYSELF ON THE EATING PORTION OF THE PLAN THOUGH. PROGRESS NOT PERFECTION I AM REMINDING MYSELF. IN THE PAST I WOULD HAVE GIVEN UP ALREADY BECAUSE I AM NEVER 100%PERFECT. NOT THIS TIME . I WILL SEE MYSELF THROUGH THIS UNTIL THE END. ONCE I REACH MY WEIGHT GOALS I WILL CONTUINE TO WORK ON MY INSIDE TO BECOME THE BEST PERSON I CAN POSSIBLY BE!!!!!!!

Assignment # 10 . I have been thinking about this one and holding off writing it while looking at # 11, due to me starting a fantastic Accountability Group called "Disco style". We all know and love the way Spencer has been taking on this community and I felt I was on-track but since Spencer and I have a lot in common with our profiles, and outside of the community (work similarities) I said to my wife "well maybe wih my schedule I can't do this" And boy was I wrong, even wiyh the hours I do put in work I remembered Bill saying "you need to MAKE the time for this. He is absolutely right, if you want something bad enough, you go out and take it. After seeing Spencer go at it the way he did right out os the gate, I was so inspired and wanted on his team. He does the same longer hrs as a rretail manager as I do, and if I didn't do it now, it was only an excuse, and I don't make excuses. I have looked back at all of my asignments and I can say the first few when I didn't even post them (because before this site, I really never blogged anything) I just did them and wrote them down in my journal. But earlier today I went back into the accountability site and posted my assignment #1, and my #4 "MY WHY" and it felt real good to recap them. And that is how I knew I was ready to post these #10, then #11 assignments tonight. I am at the stage where I know the right from the wrong and It feels real good. I can only move forward from here, and I will. Thanks, Brian

Bill, thanks for the recap and review. For me, this process is being unbelievable. The inner transformation is the most amazing...I have levels of calm and confidence and hopefulness that I used to try and force myself to feel (guess how well that works.) I have been consistent, determined, and participating, being honest and open and showing up no matter what. I have done all assignments up to this one, and will have completed them all by the end of next week. I am in two daily accountability groups and have an accountability buddy. I have reached out many times for help and to help others. However, it is progress, not perfection. I see a lot of external change in my energy and endurance. I see some changes in my gut, and waist, my nemesis areas. My legs and arms are getting even more toned. I take my six week pix on Monday, so I hope to see even more when I look at the picture. Either way, I am not going to let it stop me. I have not been having a full blown free day. It scares me. I am just nervous about it. I have labeled a day when I eat too much at night (my big eating issue) as a free day, but I have not had a planned day where I eat whatever. My free day has been like one too many rice cakes with peanut butter. Today I am taking a free day! Let you know how it goes....H

I started week 5 yesterday and am feeling great. I am having a hard time even relating to where I was in life emotionally, mentally and physically at the beginning of the year--who was that person? In my blog, I am trying to share my journey of going from a victim to a survivor and even thought I lived as a victim for 10 years, I am having a hard time discussing it because it seems so long ago. When I set out to adopt a new lifestyle, my motto became: I am who I was. Everday I make progress towards that. And everytime some comments on my smiles, my happiness, my positive attitude---it's a reward like no other. The physical change is a bonus...the change that really matters is on the inside. I've guarded my heart from friends & family for many years and I am now learning to trust again; to believe that I will not be the best friend I can be if I do not open myself up to others and invite them. Something I didn't plan when I started this journey was the revelation about the toxic people in my life and they happen to be family. It's hard to step back, put distance and accept that sometimes even family members wouldn't choose each other. It's been tough but refreshing to recapture control of my life and control of who I allow to influence me. My struggle with the guilt over distancing certain family members will be something I'll have to deal with for some time but I know I can get past it. For me, this isn't an 18 week challenge...it's an 18 week kick start to the rest of my life. It's an opportunity to get started on the right path, to explore myself and who I want to be, to connect with others and surround myself with people who support me. For me, this is a second second chance at life. (no-that's not wrong; my first second chance was in 1998--visit my blog for more on that).

I am seeing with new eyes and feeling life with a new heart. I feel as if I am experiencing soul boot camp, bringing healing and renewing every aspect of who I am. I am light years away from the woman represented in the photo from January 1st. I am completely astounded at all that has taken place and cannot say enough how unexpected the results of my assignments have been. I did not know or could not fathom that I could ever feel the way I do today. I feel immense joy that I am set free from the pain of the past. I realize now that true forgiveness holds the power to change a life. I have spent most of my life shackled by self made restraints, an internal straight jacket of my own denial woven slowly over the years from the threads of my doubt and pain. The process of becoming bound was slow and subtle, so much so that I had not even realized how much poisonous baggage I had stuffed over the years. I still loved, felt positive about life, had a successful family life, and had big hopes for my future, but I was wounded. impaired and far from being whole. I was very near losing my faith last December, which isn’t something I thought could ever happen to me. This turnaround is a gift and feels nothing short of supernatural. The lessons, revelations, and new understanding that have occurred is something that I am still “absorbing” and taking in. The dictionary definition of transformation is: n., a. The act or an instance of transforming., b. The state of being transformed. 1. A marked change, as in appearance or character, usually for the better. Although, I know I never want to stop transforming, I’ve already experienced #1 above in a way that has gone far above any expectation I could have hoped for! For a girl who already thought she knew what this was all about...I sure have had a lot of surprises. How do I feel? I feel like I am now standing knee deep in a field of miracles.

I have done every assignment. I see myself in a new light. I continue to make progress in all areas of my life as in the Transformation. I see a new attitude, a renewed strength that can only come from the Spirit within me. I feel more ALIVE and LOVING. I am becoming more and more aware each day of who I was intended to be. Beverly :D

"Have you missed an assignment or lesson?": No I have been following them through my transformation. "Have you done them all?" I have done all of them up to this lesson. "As you carefully and honestly give yourself a moment to review and reflect, what are you seeing and what are you feeling? ": I was just thinking back and looking over the responses over the past weeks, I can see how I went from initially focusing on winning the transformation prize, to focusing deeper inside myself, to reach my own goals. It's strange how I shifted from being so motivated to win money, to being motivated to change myself so I can help others to do it too ! The prize money no longer feels important as making it to the finish line and achieving the wonderful changes and accomplishments. I want to share this with others so they can feel this too! I have examined myself, finding my strengths and weaknesses. I go back and reflect on different assignments during the day and during my workouts. I may be on assignment ten, but what I learned in lesson 6 still is in my mind daily. I think about the person I want to see in assignment 1's goal picture often in my mind. I also think about how much I have changed since the "before" photo. I have got to know myself much more deeply than I ever imagined I would, when I signed up. I've transformed from being afraid of giving up and quitting to being focused and driven to succeed. I'm so grateful for this Transformation Program!

I know that I am on track and doing everything I can to complete this transition and be the "Hero" in my thoughts. I have been keeping up with my exercises even through the adversities that have taken place with my health. Nutrition has been somewhat of a problem because of my health, but I have corrected that with the help of my T-friends. I know I am on target and will be successful in my endeavor to create my dreams. John

: Where are you in this process? I feel like a new person. 2 months ago I did not want anyone to see me. I went out of my way not to run into people that I knew because I did not want them to see me this way. My face was fat….well, anyway, that is all in assignment 1. I am having a hard time going back and finding things to change now because I am so happy with how things are going. I am stuck on assignment 8, I might just be tired and over thinking it all, or I could be onto something and just need to stand back and be objective. I know that we are supposed to give until it hurts, and I keep trying to think of a way to do it, to be honest, right now, and for the last 20 years, I am giving until it hurts. I spend a lot of time helping my daughter and her children and my brother. It has helped the last few weeks, because I am keeping my mind and my heart open to opportunities to give back, and I have found some unexpected ways to give. God has been very good to me. I grew up with Him and am going to get old with Him. God has always been pretty private for me, I pray all day long, when I am driving and before I eat and in the middle of a project. I try to go to him for more than just things that I need. I am very comfortable with God, but I am not very comfortable sharing my religious beliefs with anyone because they are so private to me. God comes through for me time and time again and he finds ways to speak to me and teach me and kick me in the rear if I need it. I am starting to wonder if I am thinking too much. I spend a little time every evening while my husband watches tv, filling out my daily journal, it reminds me of things I should think about. The list of 5 things I could do to improve usually brings up about an extra thing each week I need to fix or change. The list of things that I did right gets a little monotonous, but like the improvement ideas…all it takes is one improvement on top of the others and you have continued progress. I think my big thing is to find ways to stay the course through crisis…because they will happen and ways to see some kind of continuing improvement after I reach my final goal. Right now I just can’t wait to get to 18 weeks…but then, after all this fun and excitement…I will need something more. Thanks for listening to me ramble again. I am soooo grateful for having this opportunity, I am excited for every day.

These last five and a half weeks in the Transformation Challenge has been such a life changing event. I have seen positive transformational changes within me and my family. Before in my life and the lives of my family, I was not beiing the leader I was suppose to be. I was not living to my full potential and I was stuck into a destructive routine of unhealthy eating and lack of exercise. I was just going through the motions of life and not reaching my true potential. Depression, anger, stress, and a lack of confidence were my constant companion. To deal with this pain, I turned to junk food which consisted of sugar and fat. I was not living a transformational life but I was evolving into a heart attack and diabetic. These poor eating habits were formed in my college years and grew more destructive as I got older. I thought I was able to get away with this type of eating when I was younger, but the results of the damage began surfacing over these last few years. I tried numerous times over the last decade to get into shape but fell back into my destructive habits. Finally at 285 lbs. and being told by my wife to change, I did not know where to turn. Nothing motivated me to change, not even my poor health and the eventual road of destruction I was on gave me the motivation to change because it was such a part of my life. This lifestyle became such a routine part of my life, I had no hope that it could be changed. It had me physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Then it all changed within seconds when I found Bill Phillips Transformation Challenge on t.com. I do not know what happen, but a raging fire went off within me and for the first time, that feeling of hope, faith, confidence was being alive was within me! I remember saying to myself: "I can do this! I need to do this and within two to three days my wife said, "your really going to change this time aren't you! Yes, yes I am! Over the last five and a half weeks, I have completed ten assignments where I constantly use them as a tool in my transformation. I now only eat healthy Eating for Life meals and I am excited to now implement healthy "Right" protein. I have left the sofa and replace it with my local gym where I have implemented exercise into my life. With 12 weeks left in my first Transformation Challenge, I will now begin Bill Phillips Body for Life 12 week workouts. Because I made the decision to do the Transformation Challenge, to follow Eating for Life, to exercise, and do the Transformation Assignments, I feel alive again! I am healthier, leaner, full of life and confidence. Those old destructive feelings are gone and replaced with thoughts and feelings that are transformational. The greatest blessing out of my transformation is my wife making the decision to change with me and do the Challenge. Just over the last two days, I have seen a light in her that I have not seen for a long time. I am so proud of her and how she has made the decision to "Be The Change" in our familiy's life. My children are eating healthy and have also implemented exercise into their lives. The Transformation Challenge has blessed my whole family, and nothing can make a father prouder than see his family blessed and living life to its fullest!

This is powerful! I not only did all of my assignments, I did them all in one day. I got so involved and interested in everyones postings and your writings that I couldn't stop. Luckily I worked out first. I am so on track, and am hitting it head on. Nutrition logged, workouts logged, and food supplies kept up on. Never leave the house with 3 shakes, apples, and cottage cheese, berries and walnuts. I have to remember to log in to Progress not Perfection and add my 2 new signs a day. My workouts are getting easier and tougher. My rear and legs are getting leaner which means I can balance better and lift with better form. I am strengthening my VMO because I was wobbling on squats. A Dr has fixed most of my injuries and my trainer has modified my workouts so I don't get hurt by physical impairments. My husband is happier, he is being inspired to try and workout again which makes me cry, my sister and niece are specifically flying in from CO to MO to spend two weeks in boot camp with me. I am going to help them get on track and help them start. They asked me if they could come, my son-in-law is starting again who made a great transformation and told me I was inspiring to him. Before Christmas, I was dead to everyone even myself and now that I am awake again and doing the right thing, It is a blessing to iinspire others by "being an example" and not just shooting my mouth off. I'm excited, I have a new leaase on life, my-brother-in law is traveling with work fulltime and now eating right and back on BFL exercises. This is such a positively infectious environment to be in. I am happy, my body is changing and I know it will continue but my mind is gaining "positive" strength day by day. I run, I jump, I eat, I sleep, I am focused on me, my family, the "T" family and inspiring others. I will be the change, I will finish strong! I am on target, I will not quit, I will live my life strong, I hope to inspire others!

I am totally on track. had couple off days so far in my five weeks. I have learned that I am not perfect and to strive for consistency not perfection in diet and exercise. My physique and mental outlook are changing by leaps and bounds. I will be the change. Thank you Bill and all the T.com community. Pino

Wow, Reading this assignment made me cry. (Happy Tears) I didn't know I would get so choked up when I read through and reflected on everything I am doing for myself and others. Who would have thought that in one months time, I could do a 180 turn on my mindset. From that Depressive rut, as I called it, to encouraging others before my transformation is even complete. The physical changes seem to be a breeze, once I started working on the mental and spiritual part of this transformation, everything started to come together. The 3rd week into the challenge, I started getting frustrated with my physical because I wasn't seeing results that week and then I started engaging in the community more and completed assignment 4. Then I was ready to go for it with the rest of the assignments. #6 is by far my favorite, It really helps me to look for the posative every day. It's funny, The times that other people noticed changes in me, is when I have made the biggest changes spititually and mentally. I'm so happy to finally not be the mean, grumpy, unhappy mommy I was before I decided to join Transformation .com. I don't know any other way to express all the gratitude I feel except for giving back to this community and encouraging others. Thank you bill for creating such a wonderful place for all of us to grow as individuals and as a family!! Dorie

Assignment # 10: Where are you in this process? For the 1st time in a long while I feel that I’m accomplishing things beyond my imagination. I have completed all 9 lessons so far and have thoroughly worked through each one with the intensity that I now know that I have deep down inside. It’s truly amazing at what I have accomplished so far in just the first 32 days of this Transformation. I am so alive and feel so good inside and want to share it with the whole world. I feel so happy when I talk to people about this and the support and encouragement that I have received from Transformation.com is so awesome in itself. I look back at pictures from Day 1. I have come a very long way in such a short period of time. For this I am very proud and honored to be part of such a winning organization. Working through the assignments has not always been easy and some have been a big challenge. The 1st assignment taking that before picture was not bad at first but what took courage was posting that picture on my page. Wow that took courage beyond what I ever thought I had inside. But I have learned a lot about myself in the days that followed. At the 4 week mark I can see progress and was excited to post these pictures to compare them to the beginning. Other assignments including cleaning out all the junk in my kitchen was easy. I felt like this was a change that needed to be done for a long, long time. I am so happy that have clean food in my cabinets and there is no more junk in my life. I feel like a whole new person and can not wait for the next day. I look forward to my workouts with the intensity and fire inside my heart. I love planning my next day’s meals and workout routines. I am on pace to accomplish more this year than I have ever before. I love to win and I love to be on top. I have not reach the top of my mountain yet, but I can see it on the horizon and I know if I keep plugged into the T.com community and my groups that I will succeed. -John

I am fully accepting, embracing and applying the Assignments. I'm am transforming already. I'm really into personal development, so Im enjoying every bit of this! Ive only started a few weeks ago but have made huge progress mentally/soulfully which will translate into the physical soon! I am actually being the change already.. RIGHT NOW. For myself, family, friends, and my country.

I feel like I am on track and going strong. I am teaching better. My students noticed an increased energy and enthusiasm...even on painful days. I am eager to learn more, be more, and give more. Thank you for all of this! I am enjoying my journey. Kirsten

I am on track and today I saw my before picture and I can already see the difference! Wow I can not believe it. I want to be strong and healthy and I am on my way to just doing that!

All the statements for this assignment are what I envision for myself and after reading them again (I must really like assignment #10) I can see that I need to drink more water and take a Diet Pepsi out of my menu each day. I'll work on it.

I'm 25 days into the transformation and on track with the assignments and working every day on staying on track and making improvements. I'm not perfect but I know that isn't what it is about. I'm just so happy to be headed in what I know is the right direction.

Thinking again about this assignment I am also thinking and feeling that there is more joy in my daily life from my children, my time spent with God reading my bible, and in doing small things for others. Three weeks ago most of the joy in my life came from eating food.

I am feeling so far so good. Everything I read for this assignment feels very applicable to my life right now. Right now are the key words though because I am still out on maternity leave and am at home and have more free time to fit in a workout each day, to fit in making healthy food, and getting everything done that needs to be done to take care of 3 kids a husband and a house. I am very scared of what will happen in 2 weeks when I have to go back to work full time. I am scared I will loose momentum when I start back to work. I will have to get up at 5:00 in the morning to fit in a work out each day. I will have to pack healthy lunches and snacks each night for the next day at work. I will have to go to bed earlier to get all this done. I will have to plan ahead to stick to my goals I have set to achieve by May 9th. I am a little scared if all of this will be managable each day- workout, healthy food packed, 3 kids off to daycare, work, pick 3 kids up from daycare, healthy dinner, time to read my bible, write in my journal, talk to my husband, and log on to T-com. Can I do it? It sounds like a lot. I have to believe I can.

As i was reading, i felt like if i really wrote this. So far i have been true to every step and feel more powerfull each day. I dont even feel like having those free days at all though. Is this ok? I just want to achieve my goal so badly.

Yes, I am on target. I read this website daily, read your books daily and am keeping a good journal so when I am 82 lbs lighter, I will be able to share with others how far I have come.

I'm up to date with my assignments. I'm in a betterway then I was 2 weeks ago when we started.

As I read through the summary, one thing jumped out at me, and really got me thinking. I spend a lot of time giving advice and little time learning from the experiences from others. Yes, one of my stated goals was to give back something to this community, and I will continue to do this. However, I have so much yet to learn, especially about transforming on the inside. As Bill said so elequently in his summary, I need to use my ears and mouth proportionaly. So, for this assignment, I will committ to reading more of other people's posts, and perhaps making a few new friends along the way. > WorkoutGuy

I am growing up. I am taking responsibility. I am working hard toward my goals and my body is already starting to change for the better. I can't see the finish line yet, but I know I'm on the right path. Thank you, Bill, Mellie, and Cephas.

THAT was awsome! I loved reading through that and pondering what it is that I have accomplished in such a short time! This is something I can come read again whenever discouragment tries to get at me. I can say that I have honestly and fully done each of these assignments, and that I am a better person for having done them! Thank you Bill, this post was a wonderful reminder. ~Harlee

I loved the recap, and I wish I were as eloquent with words. I liked reading it as though I wrote it, and I will read it again from time to time. IT's a WOW thing for me!

Bill...I have completed all of the transformation assignments up to this point...I am actually setting goals doing things that I have been scared to do thinking different and just making positive choices especially in my daily thoughts that affect my whole being...I am so proud of what I have accomplished this week and sharing with others my true feelings and being passionate about changes I am making and letting the real me shine...who knew what a difference 6 days could make...Who knew I would be going to the Success symposium and buying a VIP ticket for Myself and My Daughter...Having the opportunity to sit and watch live, a man Who has mentored me through his books and because of his book "Failing Forward" has started this Journey for me 9 years ago,,,But Bill...It is becasue of you and your books and this site and listening and watching on DVD (success Symposium) I will not take years to accomplish anymore that , that I can accomplish in months...Thank you

Wow! These assignments are incredible! As I go through these assignments, I have been able to really take a good look @ myself on all levels. Its been humbling. I thank the LORD for Bill Phillips as I am amazed with the heart of Transformation.com. How awesome this is! Thanks Bill for being His vessel! Your leadership, words of encouragement and guidance on this journey has been priceless.

Bill, I completed the assignments in preparation, and again today, only a week later. I already see my physical presence is healthier and I see growth in all other areas! The relationships on this site are very much an integral part of my transformation. I am so very much looking forward to the new assignments yet to come! Blessings, MaryPat

As I read through this reflection every day in every way I am feeling more and more empowered. While I have completed all of the assignments so far, I continue to review and check up on/ in with me I am constantly evolving. While some of the exercises are more difficult than others, all have been rewarding. I'm on track with my eating and moving, with my purpose, with my lower level habits, with my learning and growth edge. I continue to meet myself where I am at and assess the health of my environment inside and out. Thank you for continuing to help me to shine a light in those areas needing attention! I feel more awake, alive and empowered than I can remember! I look forward to waking up and being alive. Now that, is a great feeling. ~ Robin

Wow, what an awesome re-cap!! Reading this really helped me to see how much progress I actually have made so far. Amazing!

Now, Today, I see the ME that God created and intended me to become. Not perfect but trying extra hard to make the progress he wants me to make. He leads me and I follow and when we reach the end I can turn around and know my way and be the leader he called on me to be. Love, Linda

After reading throught these assignments, I have realized some of the progress I have made. I have definitely made progress physicalls, and I have also made progress with associating myself with people who are concerned with being healthy and bright. I have also learned from members (like Clarissa). The only assignment I need to review more is the statements of purpose assignments. I will write down and review theses statements daily now for inspiration =)

I have followed every assignment and as I read each one of the I 's that it reflected me. I could happily say I'm doing the transformation for myself and I see results everyday. I'm a much happier person now and people around me notice I have a big smile now where ever I go. I loved this assignment and I'm ready to move on to the next one. :)

i liked this assignment because it was right in time to review what we have gained/lost in the process. a good review of how much i have changed and a chance to revisit the basics of BFL. things were getting messy with the eating part...a few too many of UNAuthorized meals were happening as a result of travel. Glad to have had this assignment to kick me back into the game. thank you so much.

The most important aspect of this challenge to date has been the sharing of information from evryone here. Seeing how others are succeeding help and give me further strength to keep moving in a positive direction. I have tried to share how this whole experience has changed my life completely. My physical apperance is beyond what I ever imagined. Mentally, I am stronger, more caring and understanding. Spiritually I reflec on how blessed I am continuously. I am a kinder, gentler more compasionate person than I was months ago. I am open to people here in a sharing and respectful manner. It seems that pictures of people here are not necessary because I seem to know who is who just by what they sayin their posts, forums, and blogs. This whole transformation has become a life process for me, redefining who I am and what I will be. Thank you Bill and everyone here for all that you do.

!Reflecting on what I have learned so far. First of all, I have to admit that as I read through Bill's Post on this assignment it really touched my heart and even brought some tears to my eyes. I can see all the changes and progress that I have already made. I also saw that there is still room for improvement and also realized that IT'S OK that I'm not perfect in this and even though I'm not perfect, I am still seeing the positive changes and realizing that you don't have to be perfect to see progress. Being a perfectionist is something I struggle with. Anyway, the rest of my thoughts on this will be posted in my blog if anyone cares to read more into the mind of Amy. LOL

I am doing great on the workouts and the eating properly...I have to actually watch out for the over training in the gym sometimes.... I do admit I am a bit behind in the lessons, Iam playing catch up, but I have reorganized my time... the assignment are getting done...and Iam working on this computer illetaracy....It will all be complete...these hurdles,obstacles will be overcome!!!

T1: Know Thyself, Where Thy Stand and Where Thy Is Going Today, I stand on the threshold of hope. I have taken that long, hard look at myself and what a sobering experience that was for me. I know more now of who I am. Denial is no longer my middle name, keeping me company and nurturing me foolishly. I am aware of where I need to improve and am working diligently towards being a better me. I have a vision of myself succeeding. I have a renewed hope for the first time in as long as I can remember. I have made a goal book that I look at on a daily basis and I am always adding to it. It includes my goals for transformation in my weight, health and every area of my life. I remind myself and give thanks that am NO longer where I started, stagnant, depressed and just letting the days pass me by. I am going forward, living, loving and finding laughter in everyday life. T2: Exercising Care for the Physical Form I am a work in progress on this one. I have always found that putting myself as a priority can be difficult. This sometimes is a struggle, but I am improving every day. I do exercise daily. I have found in doing this these past few weeks makes me stronger both physically and helps me mentally stay strong. T3: Feed the Body the Right Way I have been nourishing myself with good food. I have made this a top priority not only for myself but for my family. I still struggle with drinking plenty of water. I have given up sodas and drink tea. I use artificial sweetener, which I also want to get rid of. I am still working on this step. Water, Water, Water!!! T4: Know Your Purpose I am aware of the reasons I started this journey. I posted my transformation goals in my goal book and I look at them everyday. I AM doing the work!! T5: The Power of Positive Pressure I have set some specific timelines for my weight and health goals. I have also set goals for other areas in my life. I am excited to move forward to my goals in all areas. T6: Look for Progress, Not Perfection This step has been positive in my life. I was an all or nothing thinker and if I saw myself not doing things perfectly, I just quit. I have embraced the "progress, not perfection" mantra and I say it out loud...my family hears it often. I am much happier with myself not striving for something that is unattainable. I am building a happy and more positive life and not waiting until I am skinny, the perfect wife or mother to arive there. I am being more patient with myself. I am acknowledging that I do have strengths and accepting compliments gracefully. T7: Be in the Right Environment I do recognize that my will-power does not always pull me through, so I have made the changes necessary to be successful in my environment. My food, friends and activities have become healthier choices. T8: Know Thy Enemy I "TOTALLY" accept the enemies that lie within myself. I have finally accepted that these are NOT who I am, only habits or patterns that need to be changed. I am gratefully growing every day!! T9: Always a Student I love learning! I am learning every day from the experience and journeys of others. What an awesome community of teachers. I am releasing past hurts and am letting go of a history I cannot control or had no power over. It has been a hard journey for me to get here, but hopefully I will be able to share my experiences with others when I am ready. I acknowledge others that have helped me along my journey. Both on t.com and in life. I will continue to say thank you because I want those to know what a positive impact they have had on my life. I do feel as if when I watch others succeed, I succeed too! That is an amazing feeling and I love to watch my friends meet their goals. I want to "Be The Change!" --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- I think the greatest compliment I have received since starting the Transformation Program came from my sons. They have noticed I am happier, I take better care of myself and I get out of the house more. They both have said they are proud of me...and that ROCKS!!! My boys are the greatest accomplishment of my life....I am so glad to be their mother.

All of the assignments have been completed up until now, even though I got a late start. Reading those words, even close to the beginning of this journey really helps. It is empowering and liberating.

I have completed all assignments up to date..T1-completed just haven't posted my pictures(need to develop them)T2-completed..T3-In progress..need to be more strict and consistent with my eating..T4-completed..T5-Recommitted myself to the transformation...T6-I have seen some progress in myself...T7-completed..T8-Working on my lowest habit which is procrastination..making good progress on it..T9-completed...Thanks you Bill for making my responsibile for my actions in this transformation...I need a little push..take care Vicky

My assignments are completed up to this point. My before pictures are taken but still need to post them. Processing through the baggage that made me turn to food as a comfort has been a challenge. I know where I’ve been, where I’m at and where I am going. That’s a switch for me, for the first time in my life I can visualize what I want to look like on the inside as well as the outside. A self discovery: no childhood dreams, those were for other kids. I lived in survival mode, period. I protected myself by purposely becoming over weight. Now, I know I am protected by God almighty no longer needing to hide behind my flesh. The time has come to live out my purpose, to be healthy, and be willing and able to do what is required of me to fulfill my destiny. I am a work in progress and God is not finished with me yet. In order to live out my purpose my mind, body, emotions and spirit need to be balanced. As I grow in this area my new purpose will be discovered. The actions taken towards my transformation so far are: daily Bible study, prayer, exercise at least three times a week- my goal is five times. My eating habits have changed, now cooking healthy nutritious meals for my family. At work, I have been requesting that healthy foods be served to my students and staff. The emotional aspect is a difficult one to conquer and as I grow in the other areas I will continue to work diligently in dealing with past and present issues in a healthy manner but for today I am feeling healthier and more energetic than before.

This place is great. I think the people here are very genuine I would like to connect with some people and learn from there progress. MY email Jermaineqjw@yahoo.com

I love this! It really puts it out there what we have all accomplished so far on this journey. What a powerful way to get this point across.

Honestly, I have not done all of my assignments because I do not check this site daily or often enough to keep up. But, I have been focused on my inner strength and feel that I am making changes there. Physically, I write my exercises in a daily log to help me stay on track. Thanks Bill, reflection is the heart of our practice (transformation).

First - Thank you Bill - you have made a difference in my life! Yes, I have been keeping up with my assignments and find myself in a place where I never thought to be - I honestly like myself! With this review I have decided to go back to my exercises and work them again in a new way. I think I will write a blog for each one to get myself a bit more structure. I am not a big blogger as writting is not my strength, but I think it will help my focus. I have found that this online community is a true blessing! However, as an introvert I am realizing that one of my life lessons is to put more of myself into my relationships - I think that I've been selfish with my time. I need to be present in a real way to my family and friends. This has cut into time that I would enjoy being online with this community - but it is what is right and best for me now.

I read this outloud, and when I did tears flooded my eyes and my voice began to quiver..because I realize that I REALLY COULD HAVE WRITTEN THAT!! That is how I feel!!! I'm amazed by the changes that have happened in just 5 short weeks!!! I have done all the assignments, and haven't cheated on my eating. My spirituality was the strongest coming into this transformation, but even that area grew!! I feel more energetic than I have in YEARS! I'm finding myself really LIKING who I am..and finally giving myself credit for the things I'm doing right! (That was my lowest level habit as encouraged by Mighty Marty!) WOW!! 5 weeks!! THAT IS A HUGE CHANGE IN A SHORT TIME!!! WOW!!! THANK YOU BILL!!!

As I reflect on my progress so far I am thankful to God from taking the journey with me every step of the way. What an awsome and loving God. Through this journey up to now I have been challenged mostly by my nutrition. I can convince myself that I can work on it later and that I don't need a plan. For the most part I have succeeded in removing the over eating from my regular routine. I have recently joined a gym again after more than 5 years and have hired a personal trainer. This week I commit to getting my nutrition plan in order and reaching new levels of success inside and out. Thanks to everyone for their inspiration and passion to be the change. It is a blessing to me each and every day. Have a fantastic day and continue to enjoy every moment of the journey. God Bless.

I am still having a hard time with being patient in my progress...I wish it would happen faster! LOL! I know I'm not 20 (or 30 or even 40) anymore and so when I see a little wrinkle or my skin isn't as firm as I want it to be I feel a bit sad....so then I come and read all of the great blogs and I get to feeling better! so thanks for all the positive-ness here on this site! I'm doing well in all the Ts except I need to work on the progress not perfection one T6 but I am making progress on it LOL!!!

Jerome again says it all. Bill you also always say it the right way. I love the new me. I haven't be online because My life has been insane with starting a new school year, a daughter getting engaged to be married and preparing for that wedding, becoming a grandma for the first time and that new year of trying to be like Halllowell's wife from his book Crazy Buzy, not knowing where to go when to get my other 4 children to their destinations, and needing a moment or two with my sweet husband. BUT, LIFE IS GREAT!!!! I'VE NEVER FELT BETTER IN MY LIFE AND I'VE LOVED THE WAY PEOPLE ARE WOWING THE NEW ME!.

Yepper- I've done all the assignments. Many of them stay within the forefront of my thoughts for days, and of course #1 is with me every day. As for where I'm at, the focus really does seem to be on the inner-transformation for me this time. Oh, I definitely want leaner legs and I'm working on them. And, I want to 'win' which is going to require the outer-transformation as well. But somehow, the joy of the journey this time is found in reflection. The joy of the results will come later, when the outside catches up with what's happening from the inside-out. Good thing I'm learning patience as I continue this joyful journey!

These assignments are wonderful and they really do help me become a better person and feel good about myself. Thank you. Ami

Release the book already! I always want more! Smiles!!! :+) Rena

I've done all my assignments thats a great start for me.I have charts on the wall that I try hard to read every day.The six meals a day took a little getting use to,but I think I have it now. I would like to work out harder but the tendinittis in my shoulders and elbows are slowing me down a bit. There's still a lot of time left, I'll do my best, I'll try harder to achieve my goals. p.s. I'm drinking soooooooo much water. Jerryb

"I remind myself of where I started, and where I'm going, each day." Thanks for the review/"Cliff Notes" for us to brush up and encourage us to stay focused, Bill! I had some struggles, mostly because I stagnated a bit and failed to do what needed to be done, but I'm back on track now. Andrea34

I have done all assignments, but only here, so I am hoping I'm not missing something. I am tracking most of my nutrition and exercise so I know what's going on there. I am kind of at a plateau in my weight loss and my progress mentally. I have been low on faith and I need to work on that most of all. I have been exercising well, and eating pretty well, but know that I could clean up all that as well. I have been making changes in my life that are mostly positive, but I also need to rid myself of some of the baggage from the negative choices that I have recently made. Thanks Bill for reaffirming my need for God in my life. Thanks everyone for sharing.

Nice! I benefitted from this review. I am transforming my life. Better home enviroment, exciting career opportunities and 30+ pounds of fat lighter! Blessings on us all!

I must admit I have not been very good with my follow through on all the assignments. I think because my eating has been off it has affected the rest. This assignment is very motivational for me. I will review my assignments tonight and get back on track. Thanks.

WONDERFUL STUFF! My first few weeks were great. Then I let excuses get in the way of being the change 100%.. I am refocused, I do know the positives I have made so far and I also know that I will continue to Be The Change. So back to making the daily and weekly commitments what they should be, and looking at what interfers with me reaching my targets. Bill, you are good at this!! I also love the community here a lot. I did miss the last 2 assignments which was my #1 reason to check in tonight to catch up. My eating has been 80% and my excercise has only been 25% of what they should be. So thanks for the chance to be real with myself, again. Debbie

I have missed a few assignments rtecently due to laziness quite honestly. I am now back on track. I am seeing visable results and my weight is dropping but i still feel like a switch has not flipped YET. I know it there waiting to make me see the light. I look forward to the next bunch of weeks and seeing and more importantly Feeling the changes. Good luck to all and remember the LUCK stands for Labor Under Correct Knowledge. You can use that if you would like Bill...:)

Thanks for the post and the reminder Bill. I am on target. I have only had about 3 days where I missed my target, either with food or exercise, since I started July 21. I feel better, look better, eat better, and I am happy with the direction I am going. I was already pretty happy before I started this , as I am the eternal optimist. But this has given me some good internal work to do. Thanks again.

Thank you for the review. I have been slipping on a lot of my assignments the past three weeks due to vacations, getting ready for school to start and endless summer parties. I re-read #8 and love what you said....My lowest level habit is not who I am in my heart. It's just something I do which will need to be changed. Time to really work on that stinking habit once and for all. LaNae

Just finished week 9 – With the completion of this one, I’m up-to-date with all of my assignments. What am I seeing and feeling? I am seeing that I am still not giving my all. My food, water and exercise part of this transformation are going well - but I have been known to indulge in an alcoholic beverage at the end of the day, outside of “free day”. Each and every time I have-there is lotsa guilt and little enjoyment, leaving me to wonder . . . why did you do that? It tastes/feels so much better on Free Day. So, I’d say this is the lowest level habit I need to work on and I will rise above it. I haven’t always read my goals, morning, noon and night, you get to thinkin’ “I know what they are, I don’t have to read them everyday” – you know, second-guessing the coach – sorry bout that - I now have them printed out and keep one at work, one at home and one in my purse. I need also to spend time daily looking for those little signs of progress recording them in my blog . . . Overall I feel great, but I want to take whatever steps necessary to fulfill my potential. Today, I will re-read your assignments, if for no other reason than comparison of how far I’ve come in 9 weeks. It’s interesting . . . every time I approach an assignment I feel a bit of . . . hesitation, or reluctance . . . maybe brought on by thinking I’m not measuring up, but after completion, I feel . . . cleansed, like it’s a new beginning –a tell all confession for the soul – which allows you then to continue on with a clearer perspective and a renewed determination. Thank you for this opportunity to step up to the plate of my life.

I have been catching up on all of the assignments and have just finished week 4 of my first challenge. Last week, I began to really see changes in my physical body and that excites me for what is to come. I am also changing on the inside, and that is really kinda scary. I have so much more work to do there and so much going on in my world right now that the prospect of failing is terrifying . I have, at times, almost felt paralyzed. But I just keep on "swimming, swimming, swimming", as Dori would say. I've said it before, this challenge has come at the perfect time for me. I have a monumental task ahead and it is going to take me being strong mentally, physically, and spiritually to come out on top. That has become my mantra, and I am holding strong!

Bill this was absolutely spot-on beautiful! If felt really, really good to keep nodding my head in agreement. You have a powerful gift for reaching everyone, no matter where they are in their challenge. I know I am more fired up than ever and I was already pretty fired up! Thank you for always saying it right! Peace and Love - Dianne

I wish so much to be your student yet I am not doing all the homework. I will improve and get it done. (I hope you don't take off for late work.) Much of my mental improvement has come through reading, listening to, and communicating with many of your other students. I will keep focused on my own work more in the future along with checking in on others.

I have not missed an assignment. However, I could do a better job of completing the assignments in a timely manner. I will work on that fact. Having read Assignment 10, I went back and reviewed all the assignments. The one that stood out the most was Assignment 1. I thought….I was really hard on me; like I was a bad girl. But the words were true. Today I realized that I have somewhat looked beyond what I had written about myself in the before picture but I will never forget either. I feel so much better and have more confidence in myself. I was chasing after my 22 month old grand daughter yesterday and I did not get winded. That was a good feeling. All of the Assignments in this transformation have pushed me into a more positive direction in every aspect of my life even though I still have a ways to go in some areas. And the transformation have giving me the feeling that I am winning the RACE marked for me; even if I stumble a long the way. And that makes me smile. Thanks Bill for making me reveal myself again.

I have not done all the assignments. Right now I am on track, physically. But mentally sometimes that’s a harder thing. This was a perfect assignment for that. Because what the mind can believe you can achieve. Thanks Bill you are an inspiration!!

I have done all my assignments and each day I feel more positive and empowered towards meeting my goals.I know that I can only rise as high as my lowest level habbit and mine is copenhagen.I have had this habbit for 34 years and its time I own it instead of it owning me.My problem is thus far in my life,every time I have tryed to quit,I have given myself to short of a time line.I am used to working on short time lines so I do every thing that way,until now.I am learning to set proper time lines and goals,change does not happen over night it is a continuing proccess.I will succeed,I will not fail.This is for life and when I beat this I know that only positivity and forward motion can come from it.Sincerely Thank you........T-DOG

Hi Bill - I siad that this assignment stirred a realisation in me that the level of my 10 has changed since I started this journey. That because of that I am going back to re-do the assignments. The benefits of that is that my ten is raised therefore there is more for me to learn and discover - but also that repitition helps things to stick - to replace the old and become the new norm. So I have finally posted my first video - albeit a powerpoint converted - it is on my blog and on the video area and on youtube! ANd this is the girl that didn't like going out of her home at the beginning! - Thank you - I truly am grateful - Jaki :)

I can honestly say this has changed my life and I am the Change because I want to be the man I now see in the mirror. It is awesome when you are looking to work out in the midst of chaos. I love it!

I feel GREAT!! I am amazed at how well these assignments go along with how I am feeling and how it parallels where I am on my transformation process. I really love that quote "progress not perfection". That is how I feel. I have made lots of progress these six weeks, but not everything has been perfect. The only place I feel a little behind on is visiting this site more often and being more interactive here. My computer started acting up a month ago, but finally failed me about two weeks ago. I am working on getting it back to 100%. I hope to be more active here soon.

I was on task completing the assignments and my computer is broken, hopefully I will be able to log on using my work computer from time to time until my home computer is up and running. I really like this assignment, a time to reflect is always good to do. I did take my before pictures and I look at them everyday to encourage myself to work harder, push myself to the next level, and to keep eating healthy. On my free days I eat what I want and honestly I feel sick aftereward, its amazing how I crave the "good stuff" and don't really enjoy the "bad stuff any longer. Thanks for the inspiration and for always encouraging us here. You are amazing.

I kept re-reading this assignment, in order to sense what I know is true of this process for me....and I was amazed at how much really rings true! I see the new vision on the horizon, and flooding feelings of gratitude, and real changes in both how I look and feel. I sense connection to this community and want to succeed and see others succeed as well. I know the habits that need to change and it scares me when I confront them....they have been so ingrained (50 years). But they are simply habits that will go away as I continue to accept and work through them. I know the mindset is so important and that is why I focus on T6 every day. I find the negativity, sarcasm, and that sense of failing is rooted far deeper than I was willing to accept, and taking a real inventory of the positive accomplishments every day are cumulative and incredibly freeing of that senselessness. Thank You BILL for these tools, for this transformation, and for the gift that resonates among all of us (REAL CHANGE).

It's good to read the progress of so many. It gives me a sense of hope. My progress has been a bit slower, tho not non-existant. I think I've been reining myself in...trying to "control" the transformation - staying within my comfort zone. This weekend, Labor Day, is all about resetting and recommitting. I HAVE made progress, but it's time to let the lion out of the cage. My Love to All...

Bill I see clearly now that Im no Eagle but only a Grasshopper. Thank you Constantine (Grasshopper)

Thinking about each assignment is powerful in my transformation. What did I learn in this assignment? I do not have a reminder daily, or look at why I began this daily. I need to do that. I do great overall, but have to make adjustments in my transformation process due to my life. I will blog more on this assignment. However, overall things are good...no to use my new saying...overall things are sunny!

I have been reviewing T1 the last few weeks. I realised that exercise pointed out WHERE we were going but didn't go into detail about HOW we were going to get there! I realize the HOW was to come with the next assignments but I have now been looking back at assignment 1 and adding the details of how I'm going to get from point A to point B!

I am Definitely "A Work in Progress" and to be honest with everybody, I have not yet done all of the assignments and am off to a slow start but I plan on catching up on my assignments this weekend; writing down some new goals for myself; getting back on track and focusing on GRATITUDE & all the GREAT things in Life and to "move" in a Positive Direction during the rest of this Transformation Challenge. Have an AWESOME Holiday weekend Everybody!!! ~Cindy~

Yes, great assignment. I needed the encouragement today. I've done my assignments so far and hope to get even more focused and continue to progress more and more.

Bill, I’m on track and grateful for everyone here along with your timely exercises, excellent advice and encouragement. I’m proud of my accomplishments so far and my changes on the inside are at least as significant as the physical transformation I see reflected in the mirror day by day. There’s always room for improvement, so I’ll begin using your first person narrative to routinely review all my assignments collectively to help assure my continued success. Thank You!

I am on track to change my body and life. I am committed to this thing, hook line and sinker. However, I know I have not been doing enough practice at positivity, and have been harping on the things in my life that I dont have (yet) or the opportunities I miss(ed). Eating/working out is by far the easy part for me, and I have no concerns about changing my body...its changing my head that needs work. I love this stuff, my life has never been this good.

Well being new to the community, I would say that I am on the right track BUT, by not being involved in the Transformation Community and by trying to do this all on my own My progress is not anywhere close to where it should be.. The things that have set me back more than anything, could have been avoided just by sitting down hear once a day surrounded my self with others who are experiencing this CHANGE!!! T7: “Be in the right environment” T8: “Know the Enemy” These are the two assignments that hit home the hardest for me. I have learned that it is so important to surround my self with others with the same goals and expectations in life. I have always heard the saying, “You cant learn from others mistakes” But I know that we can we just have to use our communication skills, and share with others the Good and the Not so Good.. “I am on my way to a much more enjoyable Life” Keep shining the light. John

I can say that I am on target, only missing a couple of exercises in the last 8.5 weeks! I started out in this transformation only to being a support to my husband, because I REALLY wanted him to have success at changing his body and feel success in this area of his life that would plague him daily. But as I keep going with him, I can feel the drive in myself throughout this process. I too, want to have success during these 18 weeks. I can also see that I will continue after the 18 weeks making these changes stick for me and my family as a lifestyle change. I am grateful that this transformation entered my life at the RIGHT time for me and my family.

I guess my target this time is different. I really get that competitive thing going and I became so mean and jealous, it was horrible. Mean to myself the most. So this time my goal was to just enjoy all of this. Along time ago I learned to use my anger to do my transformations. LOL And I was angry! I got to this transformed body but it felt like I had a big open sore all over it. Not now. I look good, I feel like the way I should on the inside. My life is good! So that makes me on track!

Lesson 10 is in perfect timing with where I am. Simple, clear and concise. I will print this Lesson and keep it on-hand (along with my written purpose) for daily reading or anytime I need a reminder. Lack of focus had been a weakness which sometimes has taken me away from self-promises. Constantly changing my pattern of thinking is what will get me across that abyss and I will read this every morning while my mind is fresh and ready to meet the day. KEEPING SIMPLE is my biggest ally on this Journey to Change. Thank you Bill for another fabulous Lesson :) !

Bill this is so cool!! I copied these into my outlook calendar so one pops up every morning at work!!! You put this into a clear and concise progression that we can look at and see what we have accomplished. I feel so good going into this weekend now. I am doing the physical work and the mental work. I am working the change and being the change at home and in my community (in fact I just secured a swing and ballroom dance instructor for our church!!) I am going to admit to you and the whole community here that I think I have failed miserably lately in being as supportive and responsive as I should be on this site. I want you all to know that my life has taken a very busy turn and there is an extremely large project looming at my work that has not only taken time from me but from my family. I have a nice break this weekend and will be trying to catch up but I need to work on consistency in that area of BEING THE CHANGE. Please don't feel hurt if you have not heard from me in a while I love each and every person here that has helped me in my struggle with my addiction to low-level habits.I am keeping an electronic journal though.BILL I want to THANK YOU for being the life coach I needed to work through these important issues not only with my body and habits but my entire thought process and interaction with others. Peace & Light my friend, Dave

This review is just what I needed today! I have been taking just one day at a time, focusing only on my goals for the day. I am taking time to meditate and really be honest with myself about how I feel. I have noticed that I think about my meals vs. just eating powered by emotions. I am making "choices" now about how I want to look and feel. I choose to get up every day and make my way to the gym. If I am not feeling strong that day, I slow down a bit and work my way through anyway. I look in the mirror every day and keep myself in reaity about how I look now, and how I will look at the end of my challenge. I am seeing weight loss success right now that I haven't seen for a long time. I had a complete physical 2 weeks ago so I would know exactly where I stand physically. My cholesterol is way down, my weight is dropping off like melting butter. All my numbers are in the right place. My energy is coming back and I am sleeping better. All the assignments have helped me to achieve this. It's so great to have all this help and to be able to do this transformation with everyone else. Thanks for all your input guys. I know we will all have great success! Cheryl Lanning

The encouragement is very key to my success and probably almost everyones. Thank you Bill and every staff memeber at the Be The Change Challenge office! I am 7 weeks into the challenge and have started feeling like my physical changes have slowed down although my heart feels awesome. How do I stay positive when the physical changes seem to slow down and I am now expecting to see change each week in the mirror? How long do you wait for improvement before you realize something is wrong?

My 1-126 notebook and T1-9 (now 10) notebook is about filled. I've been compiling it for a couple of weeks now and trying to summarize each week as they end. I've been grading my Exercise, Food and Water each day (in this document) and averaging it for the week. So it's almost like I anticipated Assignment 10. I want to look at this entire Transformation every day, at my Mission Statement, my reasons for changing, my before pics and statement - - everything. This keeps me focused. It's funny because in the last few days or so I've been feeling dragged down by inertia -- I got lazy basically. I am making a promise to myself, to this community and to you to finish today and completely own this assignment. Thank you again Bill, for your wisdom, insight and inspiration. -big hugs!- Micky

Hi Bill! WOW! You are one great writer. One of the best I've come across. Thanks. Awareness and Honesty. I've always thought of myself as scrupulously honest. Then I accepted this challenge and began to record the process daily. Everything I eat. All my workouts. My thoughts. I found I've not been that honest with myself, and - I wasn't even aware of it. #1) I wasn't eating well. I had this lowest habit of free-for-all eating after 8pm, in front of the TV when I was tired. I would eat well all day, then after 8pm, blow it. #2) I thought I was disciplined. If you look at my daily exercise calendar, I'm all over the place. I'm OK with this for a start. Mostly because this is the first time I've ever exercised consistently for this long - so I,m focusing on progress, not perfection. But lately, I've realized that to accomplish my goals, I need to change my habits. Specifically consistency. #3) Level 10's. OK. Here I've flat out been lying to myself. Most of them are 8's. Some of them are even 7's. I'm learning what a level 10 is for me. It's a lot more than I thought. That's kind of cool now, when I think about it. I'm becoming capable of more. Thanks Bill. These assignments mean so much to me, and as always, are spot on for where I'm at. Sending goodness, light and love your way today, Deb

I had to go back and complete assignments 7-9, since my internet was cut off at home. For those two weeks, I was like a drug fiend without my drug (TCOM)! Now I'm back and have completed my assignments. I am pretty much on target, but I do see some places where I can improve, like the intensity of my workouts, especially the weight training. But the assignments have made me feel good inside, and I have received comments from at least two people saying that I seem so much happier. And you know what? I AM!! I don't let the little things throw me into a frenzy. Like this morning, we ran out of gas on my way to work. So we had to walk about four blocks to the gas station. My Hombre was so pissed! But I smiled and told him, "See, now we get our exercise in, and some time alone," and I gave him this big exaggerated wink. Then I said, "It could be worse, it could be pouring rain, instead of sprinkling, and we could have ran out 10 blocks away from the gas station." By the time we got back to the truck, he was smiling...a teeny bit. In the past, I would have been angry, blamed him for not having enough gas, and we would have probably ended up yelling at each other in the middle of the street. I love the new me, already! Thanks, Bill!

Thank you for sharing this with us, Bill. I will be honest. I have done the assignments in different parts, some are on the site, some are in my journal, some are in my head. I do need to get organize and get it all together. I am succeeding. I am on target. I am becoming and SUCCESSFUL PROGRESS!!!!

Great minds think alike, lol! I had been compiling my own condensed track of the assignments for my refridgerator! I'm doing mixed at the moment. I have no problem with the exercise, diet could be tighter at weekends. Not the wrong stuff just too much of authorized foods at too many meals. & I am still self-depreciating!?! BUT I'm still here! Love Fi xx

The assignments have given me the opportunity for a lot of self reflection and provided some sort of inner strength. I am very hung-up on my lowest level habit, which is procrastination. I still tell myself during the midst of a moment like that, that I can get that done in the morning. I have excuses lingering around in my head and I feel the battle going on all the time but still choose to procrastinate anyway. Every other assignment has been fulfilled, I am able to look at progress and not perfection. As a matter of fact I decided after I took my second measurements and saw that 4.5 inches had come off of my waist that the scale needed to be thrown away. It was really starting to bum me out but the hard work is paying off, it really is. I believe it and I want it and I will succeed with the help and support of the transformation community! Thanks to Bill and everyone here. -Lisa

What a wonderful list of affirmations for the Transformational life. I am on track and seeing even more changes than I thought I would. The reviewing and planning are the most important parts of my day. Thank you BIll!

I needed that every day is a battle with my lowest level habits. This is encouraging to read I am going to print it out and read it daily. I never did all my assignments in school but have done all the transformation assignments. I lose focus quick and change my mind often instead of keeping it simple I over analyze things with a perfectionist attitude and quit. Reading this daily along with my transformation statement should keep me on track. Thanks Bill

I can honestly say that this week I worked hard on improving the assignments I was rushing through. I re-did Assignment 1 and posted it for accountability because I had just written it out to get it done. I am finally being disciplined about eating the right foods at the right time in the right amounts. I went as far as wearing a stop watch that beeps every two hours. (it really helps) and I finally stepped up the workouts this week to the point where I get sore the next day (in a good way). I am working on my environment by nurturing and improving my relationships and getting my home organized. I am on a good path here. I am working on living a meningful life that I can share with others in a meaningful way. ~~Jen

Dear Bill: T1: Know Thyself, Where Thy Stand and Where Thy is Going I have courageously accepted responsibility for my own condition. I also know where I’m going and I remind myself where I started. T2: Exercising Care for the Physical Form I take better care of my body now. I exercise two to four hours a week. I show up consistently, and that I put my heart and soul, as well as my muscles and mind, into my workouts. T3: Feed the Body the Right Way I need to work on my timing most of all. When I start my day with great intentions, I do get distracted easily. But I know this and am getting better at this My Free days are not attractive anymore. If I put something in my mouth that is not right... I beat myself up. T4: Know Your Purpose " I want my kids to know what is possible! " I contemplate my reasons often and utilize them to strengthen my ongoing commitment to do the work. T5: The Power of Positive Pressure I have specific timelines and deadlines. I don’t make the mistake of giving myself "forever" to achieve my goals. My timeline have been a great Lever that is prying me up and helping me keep focus. T6: Look for Progress, Not Perfection I humbly grateful for all of this. No, I am not perfect and never will be. But it feels like I have a new extended family now. All of which are in the same boat with me, an sailing in the right direction! I know I should share my writing and thoughts more and will do so. T7: Be in the Right Environment I utilize my discipline to do everything I can to make sure I end up in the right place at the right time. My kids are keeping healthier foods in my kitchen, and less of any junk food. I make an effort to associate each day with people who have also made the decision to be the change and become healthier and brighter. And I do that right here on this site! I built a small room in my basement where I go to work out and plan my day. I love that room! T8: Know Thy Enemy I see my enemy everyday as well as my habits that need to change in order for me to succeed. This is what it is all about for me. I now have a better advantage. Thank you so much for that Bill! T9: Always a Student I recognize more now that when I share my experiences, I not only help someone else, but I learn even more by teaching. I’m aware of those who have taught me something so far in this process, and I acknowledge them with a simple and sincere “Thank You!” whenever I get the chance. In addition… I’m renewed and re-energized to continue along this transformation path! Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! ..... Mark

I have completed all the assignments but i have been knocked back by getting Bronchitis, although nearly better, it knocked a good 3 weeks off my course. My original goals were too high, so some adjustments had to be made, i began to realise having an underactive thyroid it is much harder to loose the weight than i thought. So yes i had a time of being disallusioned and falling of the track. BUT the positive side for me is that i feel better, i am beggining to look better, the exercising is taking affect, i am toning and having fun and meeting new friends in the gym so it's all good. My food intake is ok although i struggle to get all 6 meals a day i have ordered protein shakes to substitute some of those meals. But i have to say there are so many people doing really well, congratulations to