To change, you have to embrace change. I’ve been thinking about this.

I desperately want to be healthy, fit, and slender, but cringe at altering my habits. Eating whatever, whenever, and moving as little as possible hasn’t worked, so I need to decide—stay the same or shake things up?

A week ago, I was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AFib). It’s not life-shattering, thanks to medication, but it is scary. Unmanaged, the risk of blood clots and strokes looms large. I know AFib can affect anyone, even the fit and trim, yet being overweight amps up the risk and complicates treatment options.

Despite this, I’m not overly stressed. I’m free of other exacerbating conditions like diabetes, and my heart rate is stable. My doctor suggests a sleep study for potential sleep apnea—though I’ll be surprised if I actually have it.

This feels like the right moment to commit to change. A couple of months back, I started working out daily with a friend. Besides our routine, I sneak in a few exercises throughout the day, especially those that help my leg circulation. I’ve also started diligently logging my calories, and I’ve stayed at or slightly under target since the diagnosis.

I’m packing my meals with veggies. I’m not cutting carbs entirely but trying to crowd out the less healthy with the more healthy. The main focus? Welcoming change wholeheartedly. A wise doc once advised me to get comfy with discomfort. It’s okay to want something without indulging in it.

Losing weight could enhance my overall health, although it won’t cure my AFib. Still, I want to reduce its impact as much as possible.

If I desire different outcomes, I have to take action. Change won’t magically happen without, sometimes uncomfortable, effort.

That sucks.