For most of my adolescent and adult life, I’ve struggled with body image and weight loss. Although my substantial weight gain did not arrive until the birth of our second child, I’ve always struggled with the thought of weight. It consumes my every day thoughts and has come to be some what of my nemesis. Have you ever felt as if your inner feelings of self contradict your outward, physical appearance? You know, internally you feel as though you look one way, but when a picture surfaces, that inner feeling is completely distorted? That’s where I’ve been stuck. For almost 7 years. This weight , this thing, has taken control of my life like a reoccuring menstrual pimple. Like an antagonizing hang nail that just won’t go away without some type of intervention. Well, that’s where I was – just 7 days ago. Sick and tired of being sick and tired about this thing, this weight. It took all of me to share the above photos. But as my new mantra says – ques Beyonce – “when I leave this world, I’ll leave no regrets”. I’ve made the commitment to transform my life over the next 90 days (and for the rest of my life).
The biggest challenge with weight loss is remaining motivated. Here are some things I’ve put into practice to help those inevitably rough and challenging days:
Create a Vision Board:
A vision board is essentially a tool to help streamline your thoughts as well as help you remain focused on specific goals claimed for your life. My vision board includes everything from my marriage, to family happiness and of course my weight loss goals. Your vision board should be placed in an area you see or walk by daily.
Keeping a food journal:
I know, it may be a bit tedious and annoying to jot down every single thing you eat, but trust me, it works as long as you’re honest. Keeping a food journal does so much more than track caloric intake – it paints a clear picture of stress, or emotional eating, and allows you to pull in the reigns before it’s too late.
Having Faith
My husband constantly reminds me that it didn’t take 24 hours to put on the weight, so I shouldn’t expect it to take 24 hours for it to fall off. Be honest and realistic with yourself, yet don’t give up or give in when times are hard. Weight loss is right up there, in my opinion, with drug addictions. It takes work to reallocate the control. Have faith. Don’t give up. Transformation is a process.
I have never wanted to be more of my best self in all of my life. I’m committed to this transformation and cannot wait to see what’s waiting for me on the other side after 90 days.
What are some things you’re doing to remain focused? I’d love to hear them. We can motivate and inspire each other during this transformation.
Keep at it girl. I lost quite a bit of weight and maintained it. You can do this. Remember that with God's help nothing is impossible. All the best to you!
wow, those photos were sheer bravery!
I hope your goal is successful.
I hope you reach your goal good luck to you
I'm making a concious effort to examine when and what I eat. I'm also doing Weight Watchers.
It takes guts to post those pictures. I applaud you.
I recently lost a lot of weight too…but for good I know because finally, I was employing the right strategies. Eating because I'm hungry, healthy snacking, exercising and overall making wise choices. I even got my husband on board and since it's an overall lifestyle change, he's been on board for months.
Good luck!
You just inspired me to create my own vision board! I went on my healthy kick in October 2011, with a focus more on getting healthy, rather than losing weight. That alone helped changed my mindset and changed my views on eating, exercise and overall self esteem! Since then I've lost 26.5lbs and I'm trying to keep going. God is great! (c:
What's helping me? My smartphone! I have all kinds of workouts and music apps on my phone that push me in the gym. I also hit up eatingwell.com for recipe ideas, and new food ideas. The FORUMS here on CN are a great support system (2012 Weight Loss Challenge, Abs Challenge) Finally, I started my own page on facebook,to track my progress and encourage others on their journey. (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Shrinking-Hopefully-A-Journey-Towards-Better-Health/135781543196593)
So excited to go create my board. Thank you for this post! Pray for good health to all of you (c:
I am on a weight loss journey myself and my goal is to loose it and keep it off for GOOD! I have a blog and every two weeks I post my progress, I also count my calories. I know experts say don't weigh yourself very often, but seeing the number almost everyday is a great motivator for me. Blogging also gives me an accountability effect.
I love the idea of a 'vision board' will have to try it out.
For the first time EVER, I am NOT focusing on losing weight! I've been successful at dieting in the past and I have also been unsuccessful. I've seen the scale bobble back and forth and I've experienced a range of emotions around my weight.
This go around I am focusing on my health for life! I jog 3 times a week (Hey Curly Girls Run!) and I eat healthy. I don't completely eliminate foods, but I try to exhibit self-control and discipline (I will eat a slice of cake in a heartbeat), but I don't go overboard. I can see and feel the difference in my body and I do measurements to see my progress…and I don't do it that often (naturally skinny people don't walk around with a tape measure in their purse or a scale in the trunk of the car…why should I?)
Lastly, I PRAY! We trust God with every other area of our lives (finances, marriage, career, etc.), why not submit our eating to Him as well? I know that He wants me to live a long, healthy, and prosperous life, and I ask Him to help me make it happen!
Get it girl!! I wish you all the best and I hope you accomplish everything that you're working towards. Your husband and children must be so proud of you!
Neesha.Chérie
I have been able to maintain a proportionate weight my whole life (40 yrs.) with some lifestyle choices. I've never dieted but believe in portion control (I'm never stuffed and even holidays where I might indulge a little more it's never to the point of discomfort.) I'm naturally a slow eater, which allows you to better know when you're full. I don't buy unhealthy snacks for the house, but if I'm craving something unhealthy, I'll buy a small bag of chips or whatever. I try to eat healthy throughout the week (lots of salads, veggies, fish, small portions of chicken etc.) and have one "fun" day usually on the weekend where I can eat whatever I want (again within reason not stuffing myself to discomfort). I walk for 20-30 minutes a day religiously at least 4-5/week, and do some strength training/yoga 1-2x/week. I squeeze exercise into my day (stairs whenever possible, walk around the grocery store with a basket etc., park further from the store etc.) I have other bags of tricks that I've learned along the way but the biggest advice I can telling anyone is being consistent with your routine and if you fall off get right back on the next day. Good luck!
Feeling better about myself and losing weight has been a personal journal for me the last few years. I am currently at 230 and would like to lose thirty pounds by August 15, 2012. I love the idea of the collage and journal. Thanks for the post. Please keep us updated. I would love to have a personal joy story of my own within the next few months!!! Again, Thanks.
@anon 6:42 to each his/her own. With that said, weight loss and living a better life takes a tremendous effort for me. Being a wife, mom, employee does not make it an unrealistic burden, but provides structure. Again, for me. I've exercised, had a personal trainer and have eaten healthy many of days in the past, but never stuck it out. In essence, the personal need for a transformation.
Thanks for commenting.
Angela
Before I had my 18 month daughter I use to work-out 4-5 days a week. Since I have had her, I can't seem to get on track. I don't have much that I need to lose but definitely need to tone up. I did weight watchers before my wedding in 2007 and it definitely works. I tracked my food and it is amazing what you consume. Thanks for putting out there.
=/
Um, granted I'm not coming from a place of major weight loss or struggles, but it might be better if instead of calling this such a tremendous effort, simply a lifestyle shift? I don't know, the tone of this post just seems like it is a grand plan, when small consistent steps may be better. 90 days for a complete body makeover while working, married, and having children seems like an unrealistic burden to put on one's self if you've never exercised or eaten healthy before.
Have you spoken with a trainer?
Weight loss is definitely a numbers game!
Either burn it completely off or don't consume it in the first place!
It is a great idea to write down what you eat. I actually disagree with people who say not to weigh yourself everyday. I've been able to maintain my weight because I do weigh myself everyday. When I see that I've gained a a few pounds, I nip it in the bud real quick before it gets out of hand. I also know my body.. I know what to consider for water weight gain verses actual weight gain when I weigh myself on a daily basis.
On another note, kudos to you for putting it all out there and not being afraid to admit your insecurity on a public forum!!! It takes strength to do this! Don't let ANYONE make you feel weak for admitting your struggle. Just because you have an insecurity does not make you an insecure person! CHECK!
Angela, thank you for sharing your journey with us! The food journal is a great idea. It's very helpful to go back over the week and find areas for improvement and successes. Tracking and working out helped me lose 60+ pounds last year.
I'd recommend experimenting with different workouts/fitness options to find something that you'll be motivated to continue.
Good luck to you!
to make things a bit more fluid and less tedious/annoying you can replace the vision board with Pinterest.com and the food journal with an app like MyFitnessPal…i swear by it and i've gotten several teammates (i played collegiate sports) and my sister to use it its highly visual/effective and sooo soooo easy i loss weight every time I use it consistently
Good luck
Girl! i feel you on this. I though that was me from the back for a second. I too am 173 lbs I have gained at least 50 lbs within two or three years and have kept them for the last four. So the weight gain started in 2005/6. I dont even have kids as an excuse. I had a broken heart and spirit. And every time I think i'm looking good , i can take my own picture and see that is not the case. It AMAZES me that what I see in the mirror is apparently from photographic evidence not what i'm really looking like. Its depressing but it seems like its a never ending cycle. But you know what it ends today. I woke up about 5am and was thinking why is this my life? Its because i'm not who I was and definately not who I'm supposed to be at this point in my life. This post was confirmation that the change has got to come, I have to do something i have to.
Thank you all SO much for your encouraging words and great tips! I'll be sure to come back with updates!
Angela
I'm currently 173 and I feel great! I'm coming from 225 and it's been a long journey over 4 years. I've failed many times but kept picking myself back up and learning better habits. The most important part of this journey you have already and that's going in with the right mindset. Also eating right and excercize is the only way you'll succeed. I had a great workout today and I workout 5-6 days a week and I started eating mostly vegetarian. I''ll be 130lbs before I know it! Hang in there it's challenging but so worth it. If you have a smartphone there's a great app called Lose it! It's great it has every type of food for you to journal and keep track of.
I recommend using MYFITNESSPAL.COM in lieu of journaling. You can track your food and exercise very easily. My friends and I are all on it and we are able to support eachother from a distance on a day by day basis. There is a newsfeed on there where we all regularly update our progress and post supportive words. Try it! It is definitely user friendly and extremely helpful!It also has an app for ipad, android, and iphone…
i gained weight in undergrad and was determined to get it off soon after graduating. i purchased a dress in my desired size for an event 6 months down the road and placed it in my closet so i can constantly see it. when working out, i would think about getting in that dress!
Go girl! That is really brave of you to post your beginning pics! I wish you the best of luck and I know you can do it.
Side note: you are wearing the wrong size bra. You should go get a bra fitting (even though you'll be losing weight) b/c wearing the right size bra will make you feel sooooo much better.
love it! on this journey right now with some wonderful ladies. if any of you need additional tips and/or motivation check out BECOMING THE BEST YOU on facebook. peace and blessings :o)
First off, thanks for having the courage to share your journey with us. I made the decision a little over three months ago to adopt a more active lifestyle. I'd always been into healthy eating, but felt the fitness factor was severely lacking. A few things that keep me motivated:
1. a gym buddy: This could be a friend in your circle, or someone you meet at the gym who is just as focused about going regularly. They usually send the "we missed you today…" text that gets you back. lol!
2. Gym with Classes: This helps when you can't get the motivation to work out on your own. The classes spur you to make it on time and keep up with others hence increasing your fitness (it's also a great place to meet a potential gym buddy)
3. I've discovered, the more regularly you work out, the higher your chances of feeling "off" when you don't. And the thought of the after feeling will be a great motivation to work out. Don't play with those Endorphines, they are pretty addictive. lol!
Good luck on your journey, and please keep us posted!
Good for you for having the guts to be so transparent and sharing your pain with everyone. I think you are half way there. You are tackling your issues head on. I like your vision board. I always try to set realistic goals for myself. I too shed a few dress sizes not too long ago (the impetus for going natural because I was working out so much). I would say be consistent and keep your eyes on the prize. It will be so worth it in the end when you are feeling healthier and stronger. All the best to you. I'd love to see the after pix.
Great post. I wish you lots of success. You can do it!
Girl you go!!! I so love the fact that you are taking the steps to put your goals in position. The vision boards are truly a blessing and they DO help!! Wish you much success and love on your life and weight journey!!!!
this is an AWESOME post!! i, myself, am in the process in reclaiming my health back and have the best health of my life: i am in the process of transitioning as a Raw Foodist and working to shed the last of this belly fat and have the stomach of my dreams. am not going to lie and say it isn't hard because it is hard. what keeps me motivated is the same thing what your hubby says, my visual board on pinterest, inspiration youtube videos, inspirational quotes from my fav blogs and a Facebook Group that challenges its members to do 100 abs a day. i am very interested in seeing you journey. Remember that we are all in this together! God Bless
Thank you so much for your post. I was feeling in the dumps last night about my weight. It has been a struggle for me for almost 20 years now. I am married with no children so it hurts to see how I have just let myself go. Please continue to update us on your progress. We all need motivation to be and do better. Be blessed in your journey.
I have a blog called www.jinfitness.com where I talk about my love for fitness and health amongst a few other things like fashion, food, my life etc. I stay healthy by eating clean and working out. For me food is my weakness because I LOVE to eat.
Come by and visit me and goodluck with your weight lost journey..it looks like you are doing a good job thus far.
xo
jin
Can't help but admire the strength it took to share your story
And current pics with us. That alone could be motivation
After that, weight loss is easy. 🙂 Wish you fbd BEST!! And I know
The after pics are going to be jaw dropping 🙂
Kenni P
In the last 18months I too committed to this weight lost journey and beat it. I've lost 50lbs and I'm in the best shape of my life and will run my 1st half marathon April 28th. It is impartive that we take care of ourselves, we're killing ourselves with all the sickness we bring to our bodies b/c of food. Stick to it and you will see and feel the changes. Slow and steady wins the race! I wish you the best.:)
Like you say, I think keeping a food journal is essential for not just a weight loss journey, but just a healthy lifestyle journey. I also think it's helpful for me to track my exercise minutes. It's motivating to see them add up over a week. I use the free online tools on myfitnesspal.com because they are easy to use and they have apps for every type of device imaginable so the tools are always readily accessible no matter where I am. Good luck to you!
Thank you for this post and your courage. I am struggling through the same thing. I will keep you in my prayers and will strive to be consistent on my goals. Hopefully you will keep up updated and we can send good wishes your way.
Thank you for this post! I too have struggled with my weight and other areas in my life. This has motivated my to create my "vision board".
Thanx again:)!!
Pray, Love, Laugh, Live and Eat. We need to PRAY everyday and all day for the LORD to guide us and keep us on the right path. Then after we have prayed everyday and all day, we need to LOVE ourself. LAUGHING is one of the easiest excerise that we can do and it doesn't take alot of energy to do;-) LIVE everyday like it's your last, but LIVE it the way that GOD wants us too. EAT healthy and you will see results.
Love,
Donna Blowe #Happy To Nappy!!!!
You will be successful because you have a plan, a goal, people to support you, faith and ultimately, it will benefit your life in a positive way. Good luck to you and please come back with progress! I am so glad this site focuses on overall health – not just hair health. It's all important, all intertwined and it all needs to be addressed. Thank you.
Thank you for this post! I am also struggling with weight and personal issues, which include really focusing on me and getting my life together. I love your vision board, which reminds me I need to update my vision board.
Thank you and I wish you the best on your journey and goals.
Cancer, obesity, diabetes, heart disease, addictions of all sorts run in my family. My future lies in my hands (of course as God wills). This keeps me motivated, determined, focused and in the race. When I think about my future, I see me being healthy for children, for my future husband, for my retirement years. It keeps me focused. NO one can do this for me… I have to do it for myself with the support of family and friends, and the faith and determination of myself. I love me and I try my hardest to make sure that I'm doing the right things so that I can be around a long time for the other people who love me as much as I love myself.
Life is happening. And I'm living! A healthy life.