The Numbers Don't Lie--Do They?

I read a very interesting article in this month's Real Simple magazine.  It was the story of a woman who, for much of her life, liked to count things.  While sometimes this trait proved to be a good thing (keeping track of her GPA and semesters on the dean's list), often this habit was her undoing (counting rejection letters and missed classes at the gym).  You can read the article here.

This article really made me stop and think for a few reasons.  One, I felt a little better about myself because I realized I wasn't the only person who has a tendency to be a bit number-happy.  Like the author, this has often been my detriment.  I can tell you what I weighed in fourth grade (too much), seventh grade (when I wanted to either succeed or give up), twelfth grade (when it was awesome), most of college, my wedding, and before and after both kids.  The fact that I've stopped looking at the numbers (see my previous post) is quite monumental.

But I guess this has also served me well.  I can tell you my GPA from grad school (4.0, of which I'm very proud), how many rounds I passed in the CSO chorus audition (2-made it to the final round and was cut), how many years until both kids are in school full-day (1!!).  I'd have to say that, on the whole, the number counting and tracking is more harmful than good.

Two, the article gives me hope that numbers can become less prevalent in my life.  It is possible!  The author does point out, however, that deciding to NOT count is a mind-set, much in the way a decision to stop smoking or drinking would be.  You have to decide to stop it, and constantly remind yourself of this decision even when the going is tough and you can find any excuse to change your mind...though I must say it sounds funny.  Just "one more cigarette" sounds more serious than "one more set of numbers."

This morning I really wanted to hop up on that scale, so I could either celebrate or berate myself for what flashed back at me.  I didn't do it.  Yeah, not a real significant victory of any kind...well, maybe it is.  Freeing myself from the numbers game could lead to a whole lot more,  if I choose to let it.

I'll close this post with a quotation from the article, one that I think will mean some far-reaching effects in my life.  Maybe I need to carry this quote on a card, or stitch a sampler, or repeat it to myself often.

Maybe the numbers do lie...

"I no longer judge myself so frequently or harshly. I spend more of my time doing things than reflecting on what I have tackled already or, worse, angsting over what I have not yet done. I’ve relinquished a little control for a little more serenity, which has provided me with a daily emotional payoff."