#TransformationTuesday: THD Edition spotlights members of The Healthy Dispatcher community who have made positive changes to their physical or mental health while working in the demanding field of 9-1-1 telecommunications.
This week, #TransformationTuesday: THD Edition features Jennifer K., who has been a dispatcher for almost 19 years.
What unhealthy (physically or mentally) habits did you used to keep?
My unhealthiest habit continues to be an addiction to junk food, especially sweets.
When did you notice these habits were negatively impacting your life, at work or at home?
I noticed that this habit was negatively impacting my life when I managed to cut it out. I felt so much better when I wasn’t eating junk food and sugar. I managed to cut out soda a long time ago.
How did you change these habits?
I changed these habits with the help of a fitness coach who helped me find workout programs that worked for me. Those programs included nutrition guidance.
What are some of the ways you stay healthy now?
Now I work out usually six days out of the week. I also like to run. I use Pinterest to find healthy recipes and when I need extra help I track calories using an app.
What’s the biggest difference you’ve noticed in yourself as a result of these healthy changes?
For me, fitness comes and goes in cycles, and right now I’ve been in an unhealthy cycle due to stress from a move and a new job. Even though I love the job, stress makes me crave and eat junk food.
However, I try to give myself grace instead of beating myself up because I know that I can control it. Right now I’m concentrating on being consistent with my workouts, drinking lots of water, and trying to get at least seven hours of sleep ever night. These three things help me manage stress, so I won’t stress-eat, and I’ll have fewer cravings.
When I am at the top of my healthy game, I use food as fuel, not comfort. I feel better, both emotionally and physically, and that helps me be a better leader, teammate, partner and mother.
It isn’t easy, but it’s always worth it!
