Nicole

1. Have you made a new years resolution to lose weight or get healthy this year? If so, what have you done to stay on track? Be honest, it’s OK if you say “nothing”!

I did make a resolution this year, and I plan to keep it… It is to take better care of myself mind, body, and spirit. I have been feeling lost spiritually, and I hadn’t foind a “home” church. I decided to try one that was like the one I grew up with, and I really enjoy it. I have gone every Sunday, and plan to make this church my “home.” I have gotten my mind ready to lose the weight that I have set to lose by the end of the year. My goal is to lose 40lbs by the end of August, and 60lbs by the end of the year. I have read many books, and thankfully all that I have read are pretty much on the same program. I have my first week of food figured out, and plan to get my second week ready this weekend. My husband and I are joining the park district fitness center this weekend, and plan to go m-f after work for sure, and then on the weekends (time permitting). This is really the first time that I have ever been this excited to lose weight, and get in shape.

2. Did you have an aha moment that made you realize you were working in the wrong field? What did you do about it?

I’m still not totally sure yet what I want to be “when I grow up,” so I can’t really say that I have had that moment.

3. What other tools do you use to ward off cravings and hunger pangs? Have you ever tried the gum trick?

When I have a sweets craving, I try to go for some fruit or some of those Crystal Lite To Go packages in water first. Then I wait a while before I try to think about the craving… Most of the time it works, but sometimes when you want something, that’s what you want. I have not tried the Gum trick, but I might just have to starting next week!

4. Have you ever thought about switching fields but been too afraid of what others may think?

I have thought about many different fields, but I just can’t make up my mind. That will come though soon enough, with prayers and God’s guidance, it will all work out!

Ok but most importantly: tell us about the biggest loser competition! That would be a great thing to share here in a guest post if you’re up for it!

I usually have a laundry list of resolutions and yes my health was included this year! In the past year I have lost 20 pounds with healthy eating and exercise and I want to continue this lifestyle. After my morning workout I go to my day job armed with a healthy breakfast, lunch, snack and sometimes hazelnut flavored coffee to avoid temptation of those sugary lattes. I wanted some extra motivation so six of my friends and I created our own Biggest Loser group competition! It is great to have support from friends who share your goals.

What are your biggest junk food weaknesses? I like McDonald’s breakfast and Starbuck’s jumbo chocolate chip cookies- I have been free of both for 14 days which is honestly miraculous for me bc they became daily habits during the work week.

#1. What attracted you to the field of law in the first place? What was the initial spark that got you through undergrad and law school?

#2. I think you could use your skills and talents in the legal field and channel it into helping others. You could be in-house counsel for a large non-profit, or an organization like CASA (http://www.casaforchildren.com).

#3. The experience you are gaining at your fab law firm is only going to help prepare you to serve your ideal clients and help others later on.

#4. Who the hell cares what anyone else thinks and who the hell cares that others would kill for your job if you don’t like it.

Nicole

You’re very lucky!