Hi! New here!

My name is Shantyana and I am 17. I am currently about 165lbs and I am 5'3''. I want to lose about 15lbs. Although I know I can "stand to lose more", for me it's not about being skinny but being comfortable with who I am. I know health has a lot to do with it but I am a pretty healthy person (suffering from slight depression/anxiety, asthma and allergies) but I would just feel better losing 15 or so lbs. I know some people may think it is lazy or weird for me not wanting to lose more but it's my choice. I am not ashamed of being overweight or "plus size" because I'm learning to love myself either way. But I do have a problem with insecurities... but I think a lot of teenagers, and people, do.

This is me:

http://i29.tinypic.com/2yoaa2c.jpg

http://i25.tinypic.com/2qc1kio.jpg

http://i27.tinypic.com/308bjvr.jpg

I think you look pretty good! Lose your 15 lbs and then see what you think. I agree with you that each person should make their *own* goals. I am 260-ish pounds right now, aiming for 200. The BMI chart says I should weigh 165, which I totally don't believe. I will get to 200 and then see what I think. You should do the same; get to your goal and then reconsider. If you're happy there, stay there! Healthy and happy are what matter; confident happy chubby women are way way sexier than thin, insecure women who are obsessed with being thin.

The main thing you'll be doing for yourself with these 15 pounds is teaching yourself to live healthily, which is something that will help you for your entire life. One of the best things people learn counting calories is how tasty healthy food is!

Thanks for the reply!

I agree with making your own goals. I also love what you said in your profile.

"My true goal is feeling good and being healthy, and no number - BMI, pounds, fat percentage, pants size - will every truly represent that."

I'm exactly like you.  My goal weight according to this site is 140, but that is much too thin for me, especially since I have quite a bit of muscle left over from my dancing days.  I'm aiming for 160, and that's what I'm comfortable at.  I think that twenty extra pounds won't kill me, but what i'm packing right now, (more like ninety) might.  So do what makes you feel good.  Its YOUR life, and if you can run while carrying a conversation and look great at 150, then frack them, i say :p

That's amazing! I struggled with an eating disorder for years, and it's amazing to see that some of us can do the "healthy thing" without going too overboard. : )

Hi! I'm new too :] You have a good philosophy. Good luck with your goals!