I was rushed to the ER at Makati Med several weeks ago because I had difficulty breathing. Apparently I had a major case of heartburn and costochondritis (inflamed lungs). After I got out of the hospital, I made a personal decision to finally stop living the way that I do and I’d switch to a more healthier lifestyle. I stopped drinking anything with caffeine, which includes sodas, coffee, and ice tea. I also dropped eating pork and significantly reduced by carb intake (rice, bread, etc.). Lastly, I signed up for Fitness First and am now regularly going to the gym 4-5/week. I’m blogging this to make myself accountable to everyone – so that I won’t stop half-way and really go full blast on this change of lifestyle. In fact, I’ve already changed my political blog, carloople.com, into a site that chronicles my adventures in trying to have a more fit lifestyle. Please do check the blog out and leave a comment so that I’m inspired and encouraged to keep on going, haha! Let me share with you the results of my journey so far after the break.
In the first week of my diet and gym, I shed around 8 pounds. As of my last weigh-in a few days ago, I’ve already gotten rid of 15 pounds. However, it wasn’t a free ride. I suffered major cases of delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) since I was really out of shape. My legs and thighs would ache for days, hehehe. This brought a new meaning to the line “No Pain, No Gain” for me.
Social Contract
Through blogging and social media, I’ve made a “social contract”. It’s amazing how powerful social networks can be. The moment you publish something in a blog or on Facebook, all of your readers will hear what you have to say. By saying that I’m going to try to switch to a healthier lifestyle, then I’m actually accountable to my contacts and readers. This is an effective way to do something – especially if you’re trying to do a major change in your life.
I remember my office mate, Joey Alarilla, who would constantly Plurk everyday about how many days it has been since he stopped smoking. He’s already up to 100+ days. It’s a social contract for him and he’s doing his best to honor it.
Wish me luck guys! 
Social Contract. Yeah!