My Weight Loss Story

by Deedee78

Hey there everybody!! Just found this site and thought I would add a little story about myself. I have always had a problem with my weight and as a result, didn't really have a lot of self-confidence or appreciation for myself. I just turned 30 this year and let me tell you, it was the hardest birthday that I have ever had....and also the best.

When I turned 29 last year, I decided that I couldn't go on for another year as I had in the past. Low self esteem, discouraged, and overall, unsatisfied with my life. I finally came to the mind set that no one could change this except for me. So one month later, I started my weight loss journey. I'm not really sure what my starting weight was because I was too ashamed to get on a scale. The last time I had weighed myself was 11 months previous to this and at that time I was 304 lbs. I'm pretty sure I was actually heavier than this but it was the last documented weight so that is what I go from.

At first, all I really did was watch my portions and try to do low fat foods. I finally had the courage to get on a scale about 2 months after I started, and to my surprise, I had lost 24 lbs!! It was exciting and motivating because now I knew I was well on my way. Not only could I notice, but all of my friends and co-workers started commenting on it as well. It made me want it even more. I made a short term goal of 50lbs by Christmas and I made that goal a month and a half early!!! By this time I had started walking for an hour a day and I tried to do this right after work because, let's face it, old habits are hard to break, and if I sat down and started watching TV, I would still be there 4 hours later and it would never get done.

I maintained throughout Christmas and then joined the gym in January and that's when I started seeing a big difference. I lost an additional 35 pounds by May and my confidence was soaring. I still have a bit to go but I am happy that I have maintained my 85 lb loss for the past 7 months.

I just wanted to let people know that if I can do it, anyone can. If I could give advice to people, there are a few things you can do to make it a bit easier on yourself. Always keep a food journal and write down everything that goes into your mouth, how you feel day to day and I recommend a weigh in at least once a week. Plan ahead when it comes to meals. Portions are important, especially if you're eating out. There is no need to deprive yourself of everything, order what you want (within reason) and ask for a to go container before you even start digging in. And don't forget about H2O. Water is very important when it comes to losing weight. Just remember to drink it in the morning or you'll be up half the night in the bathroom!!!

Good Luck....I know you can do it!!! :)