In January I committed to a weight loss goal. I started the year at 218 lbs. My goal was to be at 200 lbs by the end of April and 180 lbs by December.
I was so determined. I joined a gym, saw my doctor for clearance to exercise and went to a dietician to learn portion control and meal planning. And, I started therapy for my food addiction and emotional eating.
The daily step goal on my Fitbit was met and exceeded almost daily. Life was good. I felt stronger than ever.
I got down to 209 lbs and I was excited. March came and life hit me hard. The focus was lost and I was in a funk. I wasn’t consistent in my meal planning, exercise or taking care of myself, and I slipped into bad eating habits. My weight went back up to 215 lbs. I was depressed.
April was around the corner and I still hadn’t met my goal. It was harder to get into the gym. Life was stressful. I emotionally ate, had fun celebrating my 42nd birthday and slacked off going to the gym. Like most well-intentioned people, I was losing sight of my New Year’s Goals/Resolutions.
I started May at 213 lbs. I was so upset I wasn’t 200 lbs yet. Going to the gym got more difficult. I was depressed and not motivated.
June came and school was out. My kids were home and I was snacking on junk food. Life was super busy. I was doing cardio at the gym but no weight training.
In July, I was 215 lbs. I knew vacation was coming up and I wanted to go and enjoy it but also have a plan. I didn’t want to give into eating badly. But I didn’t stick to a plan on vacation. I got to 220 lbs.
After vacation, I had a scheduled follow up with my doctor and I didn’t want to go. Instead of avoiding the appointment, I went. I realized it was shame keeping me from going and wanted to avoid being disappointed in myself. I talked with my doctor about options to lose the weight. The doctor suggested weight training. He told me it burns fat better than cardio.
In the south, we have a phrase “I’ve had a come meet Jesus moment.” Well, I was having mine. At this moment; I learned I was my biggest hurdle to my weight loss. Failure should not be a wall to keep me from meeting my goal(s) but rather steps to achieve and maintain them long term.
These are the steps I am doing to stay focused on my weight loss/health goals.
1. I see my doctor. I needed to make sure I had no underlying issues preventing me from losing weight or exercising. Bloodwork was taken to check my thyroid, iron, and liver functions. Also, my A1C was taken to make sure I wasn’t diabetic or pre-diabetic. Everything came back good and I was given the green light to proceed with working out.
2. I see a dietician. I need advice and guidance on what foods and portions are most beneficial for weight loss. Lean proteins, vegetables, and fruits are my diet. I limit processed foods and try not to graze or snack in between meals.
3. I see a therapist. My therapist specializes in food addiction and emotional eating issues. In therapy, I’m learning food is fuel for my body to maintain and improve my health. Food is not a way to cope with stress, boredom, anxiety, depression or even being happy.
4. Meal Planning. I’ve come up with a meal plan to fit my busy lifestyle. Meal planning helps me eat healthy and save money. I have quick and easy meals prepared to eat on the go if I have to for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
5. Weight Training. I recommitted to going to the gym by making a schedule. My gym offers free personal training with my membership. I enjoy working one on one with the trainer and the accountability they offer me to meet my Weightloss goals.
6. Ask for help from my family and friends. I need support. My family encourages me to drink my water, exercise and keep on track food wise. Ultimately it’s my decision to eat right even when others around me are not.
7. Journaling. Keeping a journal helps me see where I am emotionally. Journaling is a way for me to work through my stress and self-defeating thoughts. I do the homework my therapist has given me to turn my “stinking thinking” around. I write in my journal daily.
8. Social Media. I use my Instagram account for accountability and connection with others who are on their weight loss journey. I found Facebook groups for tips and inspiration. I’m starting a blog to chronicle my struggles and victories.
9. Drink Water. My calories come mostly from my food rather than drinking them. I limit lattes, alcoholic beverages and I quit drinking sodas. Keeping hydrated helps me not snack.
10. Health Insurance. Most insurances cover preventive care 100% or offer programs and incentives for weight loss. Check to see by calling or going online to see what your particular insurance plan offers.
My weight loss isn’t a race. It’s a marathon. I’m training each day to be a healthier me. My goal is to get to 160lbs. Right now my goal is 200lbs by December. I’ve learned that it’s not too late to get back on track. Weight gain is a gradual process and so is weight loss.
My hope in sharing my journey is that someone will be inspired to start theirs or not give up. Mothers need to make our health a priority. Especially if we want to be around for our kids and loved ones. It’s not just about a number on a scale but my overall health. I want to be active, happy and not have a heart attack or kidney failure in my 40’s or at any age.
What are you doing to take care of yourself? Share below or in the comments on Facebook.
