What were your previous attempts at losing weight? And what makes this time different?
In the past I have worked out fairly regularly but have not consistently tracked my food and focused on how much water I am drinking. This time, I am tracking regularly, working out most days a week and drinking a gallon of water a day. I am also trying to understand the difference between dehydration and hunger. If I feel hungry, I typically will drink some water first to see if I am actually thirsty rather than grabbing a snack. If I’m still hungry, then I’ll have some fruit + protein. I’ve also really focused on my mindset this time. Each day is an opportunity to make improvements. I don’t beat myself up if I had a treat or didn’t work out.
What was your light bulb moment that pushed you to lose weight?
It was last July, 2020, and I realized I just didn’t feel great. I was overly stressed and uncomfortable in my body. It was hot and every extra pound made me feel more uncomfortable. It was then that I realized I could change this. And focusing on myself would help with my stress, which meant I could then function better at work and at home. As I started to lose weight, I felt physically and emotionally lighter.
What is the biggest struggle: food, exercise, temptation?
My biggest struggle is food. Actually, I struggle with making sure I am eating the correct balance of foods to properly fuel my body for the day.
What has kept you motivated when you feel down?
I really look at each day as an opportunity to make improvements. If the scale goes up, I stop and think why that may be. Did I do a different workout? Did I indulge too much? Did I drink more water than normal? And then I think what can I do to change that today or this week. I have really shifted my mindset to think of the scale as a tool that gives me input to continue making progress rather than a dreaded experience.
How has your weight loss effected other areas of your life?
I feel like I can do anything! I can be active without pain or feeling like I am slowing others down. I am more positive in general and I feel amazing.
What have you learned about yourself along this weight loss journey?
I can do hard things! You just have to start. It won’t be a straight line, there are ups and downs, but keep making forward progress. It’s not a quick process, but there’s no reason to stop.