Have you ever thought about how many things can affect the number you see on the scale? Things like: the clothing you are wearing (which can add up to 6 lbs.), a sweat-inducing workout (which can subtract up to 5 lbs.), the amount & time you drink water (which can add more than 2 lbs.), having a "light" lunch (which can add up to 3 lbs.), being sick (which can subtract up to 5 lbs.), constipation (which can add between 2 & 6 lbs.), or drinking coffee (which can subtract up to 2 lbs.).

All this leads me to realize that the number on the scale is just exactly that - a number.

Instead of worrying about how much I weigh, I am beginning to realize that it's more important to be concerned about how I feel. For example, when I go up and down the stairs with all my groceries - am I winded? Or can I breath easily? Do I find myself walking faster with no difficulty when I do my exercise walks? Am I feeling more alert in general? Do I sleep better at night? Do I get up in the morning feeling refreshed and ready to face another day? Do my clothes fit better?

Those are the things that really matter in the long run.