"New" Member in need of Motivation

Hi Everyone

I've finally come to the realization that my life needs to change. This is a decision that I've "realized" and "made" about 1000 times before, but yes, I do mean it this time. What's changed? My motive for wanting to lose weight. No longer is it for vanity, cosmetic reasons, but rather for health and comfort reasons.

Having never had a weight problem for the first 20 years of my life I had never had to deal with obesity and watching what I ate. I was slim and actively invovled in competitive sports for most of my life. However, after a difficult relationship ended and coping with 2 major of my family members battle with cancer, I found myself turning to food for comfort. 

Now I find myself 100 pounds heavier than I was and miserable. I know the changes that I need to make in my life, but everytime I try I seem to give up. I don't want to give up this time. I need to make this change in my life. I need someone who understands the challenges and will be there to help me overcome them so that I may reach my goal.

Wish me luck everyone!

I hear you! My advise from someone , like most people on this site, have been on every diet, tried every pill- and wht I can tell you it is a life change not a diet- I lost 65lbs and ran my first half marathon- In the past 6 months I put 30lbs back on- A new job- more sitting, virtigo issues, blah blah- I came to realize to put the excuses behind me- Here is my advise-

1- Take it day by day- fall off- get back on the next day 2-Only set 1-2 goals weekly- You will set yourself up for failure. For example I set one exercise and one food goal each week. This week- I am changing to green tea vs coffee and my exercise is to do strength training 4 times a week. 3-Drink water- even if you have to add lemon

I wish I could tell you when to stop the over eating- That is what I am batteling with. I love chips! I love ice cream- portion size is my prob- I am never satisfied.

know that you have a great support group here-

For me, it was not so much realization that hit me but rather "I have to do this so get on with it"!  I too have yo-yo'd but my biggest problem is that, like you, I was always the thin girl who never had to watch what she ate, I was active, pretty, social, ....etc. 

I am 7 months away from my 50th birthday and am determined to set things straight this time.  The reasons for gaining my weight are typical - pregnancies, hysterectomy, thyroid problems, being female, being in my 40's.  We just have to stay determined and not let the reasons become our excuses.

I've added you to my list of friends here on cc (hope you don't mind).  I think we can help each other change our lives.

anneemish

Thanks for your feedback!  It's nice to know I am not alone in this. I definately have to think of this as a lifestyle change and to just do it, and not think about it. That's the hardest part for me. My weight for the most part has been pretty steady, I haven't gained within the past 2 years but I haven't lost any either. I find the hardest part is trying not to look at the whole picture and all the weight I want and have to lose but rather take your advice and set small goals. I'm thinking of going to a nutritionist here in my town who will weigh you weekly and provide you with a menu plan (meals are following Canada Food Guide and easy to prepare and find ingredients to). Her services are very cheap ($5/wk) and I know a few people who've had a lot of success going to her. I'm also joining the gym (again) lol tomorrow. I have a buddy to go to the gym with now so we're going to try to keep each other motivated.

I don't mind that you've added me to your friends list. Having someone to motivate you is great!