Introduction

Today marks the first step in what I hope will be a transformative journey. I’ve decided to start documenting my efforts to overcome challenges that have long held me back: smoking, drinking, and maintaining an unhealthy lifestyle. This blog will record my experiments, struggles, and successes as I work toward a healthier, more fulfilling life.

The decision to make a change didn’t come overnight. I’ve been reflecting on how my habits have shaped my current reality and realizing that I need to take responsibility and act decisively if I want a different future. This blog is my way of holding myself accountable and perhaps inspiring others facing similar battles. After all, holding myself accountable to others often feels easier than doing so for myself.

My Five Goals

1. Quit Smoking

Cigarettes have been a part of my daily life for years. Breaking free from this addiction is daunting, but it’s a battle I’m ready to face. NB: Of course, I’ll still be puffing on IQOS because, well, a person has to keep at least some bad habits, right?

2. Stop Drinking

Alcohol has been a crutch in social settings and during stressful times. It’s time to find healthier ways to cope and unwind.

3. Lose Weight

I’ve neglected my physical health, and it’s starting to catch up with me. Shedding extra pounds will not only boost my confidence but also improve my overall well-being.

4. Learn New Skills

Every day, I plan to open Duolingo and complete at least one exercise to learn French or music theory. Even small daily steps can lead to significant progress over time, and this will add to my list of accomplishments.

5. Cold Water Immersion

I aim to take a daily dip in cold water. It’s a shock to the system, but sometimes the body and mind need a little stress to wake up and reset. Think of it as a bracing wake-up call for the soul. I’ve also heard that spending a minute in cold water triggers a dopamine surge — boosting its production. Since dopamine is something I’m lacking due to my condition, this could be exactly what I need.

Tools for Motivation

I also love checking off little boxes when completing plans I set for a certain period. To help track my daily achievements, I downloaded the TapTask app and will use it to mark my progress. It feels satisfying to see the checkmarks add up and helps keep me motivated.

About the Title

I almost forgot to explain the meaning behind this article’s title. It’s actually tied to a song I wrote — a mix of a humorous and a heartfelt tune. When the war began, I decided not to postpone my desire to learn piano and started composing songs for myself. Maybe I’ll share them with you someday, or maybe I’ll just keep them for myself.

Progress Tracking

Let’s also take a moment to capture the current state of things. Here’s a photo of 109-kg me from last week. I’ll periodically share updates on how I look as time goes on.

Final Thoughts

I’m excited to share this journey with you and hope that by being open and honest about my experiences, I can build a sense of connection and mutual support. Whether you’re reading this out of curiosity, empathy, or because you’re on a similar path, thank you for being here. Let’s take this first step together.