About two years ago I decided that it was time for me to lose weight. I had been to the doctor for my yearly check-up and the number on the scale was shocking. I promised myself that I would never, never weigh that much again. The resulting journey has been long (it's not over yet), frustrating, exhilarating and exhausting. And, I have learned some things along the way.
I have learned that the hardest part of losing weight was convincing myself that I could. Believing in myself, trusting myself, knowing that when I fell, I could get up again and keep going was nearly impossible. But I managed it. Then, I needed to find a method that worked for me. That part actually took much trial and error. I have tried everything from pills, to running, to throwing up (don't freak out, I only did that once, and it so totally wasn't worth it). What I really wanted/needed was a method that I could adapt so that I could continue it for the rest of my life.
Enter Weight Watchers. I was a little skeptical at first, I actually referred to the meetings as "my AA meetings". Hi, my name is Fleur, (Hi, Fleur) and I'm overweight. But really, the program is awesome! I have completely changed my relationship with food. I NEVER thought I would be able to say that. I have learned that just because something tastes good, it doesn't mean I have to eat it. Going along with that, just because something looks good or is supposed to be good doesn't mean that it is. Have you had those Hostess Ding Dongs? They look wonderful, everybody loves them, they're an American institution. But next time you eat one, really pay attention to it. The things taste like chocolate-flavored wax wrapped around styrofoam! Why on earth would I want to waste calories on that? And so many foods are like that to me now. If it isn't absolutely wonderful, I don't eat it. If I'm starving and nothing in the house sounds wonderful, I have some carrots (zero points) to tide me over until I can find something that's worth it. I really had to get it through my head that food is going to be around my entire life. There will always be birthdays and Christmas and chocolate cake and fudge. I don't have to eat that Snickers bar every time I get the opportunity. Target will always have Snickers bars.
The next stage of my journey is to change my relationship with exercise. Sigh. Actually, I love to exercise.... once I get started. It's getting started that's the problem. I'll let you know how that one works out.
Just FYI: I have lost a grand total of 48 pounds, 25 of which have been since joining Weight Watchers. I'm not sure how much more I want to lose, but at least another 20 pounds. And if any of you reading this are interested in losing weight, I do recommend WW, but more than that I recommend believing in yourself and not giving up. If I can do it, so can you!
I will try to get some pictures posted soon.
