The Magic Picture
Low self-esteem and self-confidence resonates with a great many individuals that are trying to lose weight. Where do I begin? What do I do? How? Here is an inspirational story from Casedesings who has lost over 138lbs by conquering all those questions. It all started with a picture.
He contacted us through our Share Your Story feature and provided the following answers to our questionnaire.
1. What prompted you to begin this weight loss journey? Did you have an "Aha!" moment?
I’ve always hated my looks and felt miserable about myself but I just never bothered doing anything about this. The only good thing about me is my personality so I’ve been told. I can't stand looking at myself in mirror, however in June last year 2010 I took a picture of myself and was horrified with it, so I said “enough is enough” and I’ve changed my life around.
2. What other "diets" (programs, products, plans, or services) had you tried in the past?
None other than medication I was given by my doctor, but that never worked at all, I just experienced lots of side effects.
3. Please describe how you reached your weight loss goal. What changes did you make to your usual diet, activity, lifestyle, and attitude? Did you implement any other strategies besides Calorie Count? What was the most important change?
I must have high will power because all this time I’ve not thought about quitting or this is too much hassle, I weigh all my food , and I know some people say don’t use scales every day to weigh yourself but I do every morning. If I put on weight it doesn’t worry me as I know it's probably just water weight and will come off soon enough. I’ve integrated Calorie Count in to my daily life and a routine. I have 180 carbs - 1500 cal - 110 protein - 10g sat fat max and I keep the rest all healthy, and I still treat myself 1-2 times a week to something small and include it to my allowance, if I have treats or snack out I'll add into my daily allowance. My attitude towards my life is healthier and I feel much better, 300% better probably more. I now weight train light to moderate 4 days a week and use an elliptical 6 days a week. The most important change for me was when I started weighing my food I noticed my weight was more steady coming off, I eat alot of meat through the week for protein and eggs.
4. Please describe how Calorie Count was instrumental to your weight loss.
I couldn't have done it or be without an amazing website like CC!
5. What difficulties did you experience losing weight?
From the start I had no real problems shifting 1 stone a month (14 lbs) and it felt easy because I wasn’t starving myself. I was on 1300-1400 calorie no exercise diet, but since Dec 2010 my weight loss has slowed down quite a bit, which is probably normal. I’m just plugging away at the last 30lbs to lose which is proving hard but I’m determined as ever to shed those last pounds. They are coming of very slow at moment but at the same time I’m noticing I’m losing body fat and toning up due to the exercises I now do. I have had a few plateaus but over came them after few weeks - though they’re really annoying.
6. How long did it take you to see results? When did you realize that you were a success?
I noticed results after the first week I started and after each loss it made me happier and more motivated to want more, I’ve never looked back.
7. How do you prevent relapse?
To be honest, giving up was never in my thoughts!
8. How has your life changed now that you've lost weight?
New clothes, new everything! I’ve thrown away 90% of my old clothes because they wrapped around me two times. My diabetes is under control now and I feel more alive. I don’t feel embarrassed about the way I look, not as shy anymore either. I was so withdrawn from this world I wouldn’t speak to strangers if they spoke to me. Previously it was very hard for me to make friends as I never went out much and the internet was only communication for me to be “normal”. I used to have pizza take-out always 1-2 times a week, now I have one every three months as a treat. I’m much more confident now than I have ever been.
9. How long have you maintained your current weight?
I’m still losing at moment, but when I get to my target weight, I may assess myself. I have only 30lbs to go to be around the 150lbs mark.
10. What five tips do you have for other dieters?
- Look at the back of boxes for the nutrient label.
- Weigh your food - this is key for accuracy.
- Keep a check on what you eat and the level of carbs per day.
- Never give up and treat yourself on every big milestone throughout your weight loss journey.
- Take picture of your progress in depth each 2-4 weeks and see if there is any difference and keep one picture of your lowest point so you can see it when you think about quitting and that picture will change your mind from quitting.
If you would like us to feature your success story, you can submit it here. The most insightful stories will be featured on this blog and in the weekly "Success Stories" newsletter.
Comments
Congratulations on your success! You have done so well, good luck on your final steps!
Congratulations on taking charge and making your life what you needed!
Congratulations on setting & attaining your weight loss goal. Truly commendable! Good luck on your healthy journey :)
I applaud your determination to make the change. That's the crucial ingredient! Thanks much for sharing!
thanks everyone :) much appreciate your comments
im doing low carb at moment try to loose fat on my weist :)
my aim now is add muscle mass and lean out :)
http://content1.myyearbook.com/thumb_userimages/2011/08/01/0 8/thm_php66MpQh.jpg
nice job dude if your doing lower carb you might want to check this out
http://www.marksdailyapple.com/the-primal-carbohydrate-conti nuum/
It lists different amounts of carbohydrates and what they are good for. This can vary for people of course based on their genetics so some will lose better in the 50 carb range and others in the 100 carb range. Also if you do heavy workouts it can be beneficial to have more carbs around those workouts.
http://www.marksdailyapple.com/forum/thread31459.html
This thread talks about carb refeeds for people who have already fixed their hormone issues and are losing weight. When you want to get really fit it can be a good tool.
"if I have treats or snack out I'll add into my daily allowance." That's what I have found to be the key too. WAY TO GO! Awesome transformation in such a short period!
Chris
link to my blog and 130 pound loss story in my profile
Very inspiring story! Good luck to you and keep up the great work. I'm sure losing the last 30 pounds will be extremely gratifying, albeit difficult, and I know you'll do it!
Sheila
Good work! You deserve to be proud of yourself. This is what most of us strive to accomplish. Truly inspirational.
Congratulations on a mission excellently excecuted. You look AMAZING. You do not need words of encouragement because it seems you are encouraging yourself but nonetheless - keep on keeping on.
Original Post by: anneliebassonCongratulations on a mission excellently excecuted. You look AMAZING. You do not need words of encouragement because it seems you are encouraging yourself but nonetheless - keep on keeping on.
:) Thanks
Good for YOU! You made up your mind that this was going to work, and you made it happen :-) That's FANTASTIC!! Keep going...
Congratulations to you ... I love to read these stories you give me the motivation I need to keep going. Best of Luck with your continued weight loss story.
What a wonderful story! Not only do you look 100% better, but your health is a lot better, and the confidence you have attained from sticking with your goal will stay with you forever. We're all so proud of you!
You are awesome my friend!!! Never give up♥ I need to learn from you :D
You worked it!!!! and are still working it Casedesigns. Truly amazing!!! Those last pounds do come off slowly, but they do come off. Keep chiseling until you've finished your sculpture_YOU
Great job!! Love your positive attitude. So happy for you. I enjoyed your story. Very encouraging. Thanks.
Wow! Thanks for sharing your story, it must have been hard but you stuck through it and made a huge difference to your life. I have been struggling to lose weight for some time now, but unfortunately don't see results and then give up after a few weeks. I wish I could find a routine that works!
Original Post by: izzikhanWow! Thanks for sharing your story, it must have been hard but you stuck through it and made a huge difference to your life. I have been struggling to lose weight for some time now, but unfortunately don't see results and then give up after a few weeks. I wish I could find a routine that works!
never give up :)
the picture idea really works when thinking about quitting just look at your worst and the recent and u will never quit :)
do u have lots of simple carbs ?
Wow, that is some serious commitment! I bet it feels great. I really hope you're feeling better about yourself and able to connect with people more now.
Wow, you look totally amazing! Great job! You are such an inspiration to me and it makes me work harder and not give up! Thank you for sharing your story and keep up the great work!
Thats a amazing story and you've made GREAT progress!!!! *two thumbs up*
don't it feel GREAT!!! not just the new body, but knowing that you succeeded! Big Ups!!!
Respect!
thanks everyone :) last 20 odd lbs been the hardest part tho and really struggling to get below 179lbs for about 2 months :)
Original Post by: casedesignsOriginal Post by: izzikhanWow! Thanks for sharing your story, it must have been hard but you stuck through it and made a huge difference to your life. I have been struggling to lose weight for some time now, but unfortunately don't see results and then give up after a few weeks. I wish I could find a routine that works!
never give up :)
the picture idea really works when thinking about quitting just look at your worst and the recent and u will never quit :)
do u have lots of simple carbs ?
YES that is my biggest weakness. I usually don't have a problem cutting out bread/rice from my diet but letting go of the sweet stuff is insane!
Thanks for the good advice, will put up a FAT picture of myself on the fridge today!! Good luck with the last 20lbs, am sure you will manage it soon!
Congratz man!! Stories like yours are what I used to keep myself modivated when I was on my weight loss journey
This is a great achievement on your part. I am starting my weight loss program on CC today and I hope to have the same committment you have had! You are an inspiration.
Keep up the good work. Your life will change because of your weight. People will look at you differently. You will stand straighter and have more energy the more you get down to your healthy weight. Keep counting those calories.
Don't eat at night.
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Huge Huge Pat on the back for you! You look amazing!! well done
Really motivating story too!