I recently read a post from Melanie that discussed the different reasons people have for wanting to lose weight. It's an issue that cuts to the heart of my own weight-loss experiences, so I thought I'd take some time to share those experiences with you.
I'm always wary of people who claim that there's a "trick" to losing weight, but if there is a trick, it's to find a way to really want your weight-loss, to really own it. If you can make that all-important realization that being lighter in the future is worth skipping a few fleeting indulgences right now, then sidestepping temptation becomes a whole lot easier!
Simply knowing that what you're working for is going to last a lot longer than the taste of that cheesecake makes a big difference! Of course, before you can do that, you need to know what you're working for - your reason for wanting to lose weight.
I used to say I wanted to lose weight to go skiing, but that didn't truly motivate me - I knew I'd never have the time even if I was light enough! It was only when I retired and decided to start traveling that I found my purpose. I loved the idea of being unencumbered by my weight as I traveled, able to hike through jungles and go ziplining. The idea energized me. I wanted to make it happen. I stopped telling myself what I thought I needed to hear and decided to work towards something I could really plan on and really desired.
Starting on any diet without really wanting it - or wanting it for the wrong reasons - is an uphill battle. Take it from me, the only thing that's going to get you through the rough patches is knowing what's waiting for you on the other side.
So what was your motivation for losing weight, that big goal that got you through the tough times?
I have a back problem and increased weight makes me have more pressure on nerves when standing.
ReplyWatching my mother deteriorate with heart disease, Type II Diabetes, and failing kidneys has really slapped me hard! She's only 18 years older than I am, and so far, I'm not where she is, and I want to keep it that way! The pull in the wrong direction is so very strong, and I do so love those candies and cookies and French fries. But I'm trying. This site is a true God send, and is helping me a lot. Seeing others express their problems, and me stepping up and providing my two cents keeps me focused. Thanks!!!
Replyfor me it was weight gain. i was always underweight. however my grandmother had a heart condition and fearing it could be hereditary i started to be more active. even when it was hard, i told myself i had to do this and there was no other option. i had to push through the burn to gain muscle mass. i had to drink disgusting protein shakes. By giving myself no other option i achieved my goal. i'm in the best shape, i'm at a healthy bmi and the muscles gave me curves. woo!
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