I was invited to join Matt Benfell (then hated trainer, now friend) to meet him for a consultation and workout session to set some objectives and aspirations. I thought I was making okay money to use it as a form of motivation to get that transformation - forcing myself to go workout because I paid for it. In my line of work and my social life, basically keeping in shape is almost impossible, or so I thought.

In my mind, I had these amazing images in my head with 6-packs and toned arms that I can get in a short period of time. As with any transformation, there will always be a series of changes that need to happen and I, of all people, as a transformation expert (admittedly a strong one in work context) should understand this.

Little did I know, subconsciously I was resisting that change like anyone going through that phase would and I’m not proud of it. Here’s how I looked, as you would agree, it’s perfect for Coachella.

Let me start you off with the three things Matt told me which I happily scoffed at but played along.

1 - You need to cut down on your booze, particularly wine, champagne and gin & tonics…

“So…you’re asking me to just drink water?” was the first statement I made. Also, if you knew me, champagne is my absolute favorite drink. Cutting on it is a no-go. I thought he was ludicrous for even suggesting such change, it’s almost laughable. As I thought about how funny it was, I was sipping champagne off my glass.

2 - You need to introduce breakfast to your diet

I get it! According to Kellogg’s, breakfast is the most important meal of the day (says no one ever). I don’t have time for breakfast. All I can do is a cup of coffee in the morning so it gets me going and I barely have time for lunch at my desk. Also, isn’t eating more just going to make me fatter, I need to be on a deficit? Anyway, I promised I’ll try to have some breakfast when I can.

3 - Try to slot in more veggies and proteins and start recording what you eat so you keep to your calorie count

Okay Matt, I’m not about that. I am at best an omnivore, at worst, a carnivore (sweet and sour pork for lyfe!). The only thing I did was to have more salads from Workspace when I’m in the city but it will be impossible for me to have that if I’m at my other office.

“It’s too hard, I’ll try my best” is all I said and I was determined to go to the gym more. I remember the times where I often turn up half an hour late, cancelling last minute and being absolutely pissed at how I’m asked to do some crazy ass workouts after a long day of work.

As a result, even after 2 months, dad bod remains…

As a point of reflection, change does not come without resistance. If I applied what I preach at work, I should really be the change, embrace the change instead of being forced to change - that’s when you will gain success. Stay tuned to see what I did after a moment of realization.

(to be continued…)