Responding to People Noticing

So, people have started to notice/comment on my weight loss.  I'm pretty sure its in a good way (I went from 170 to my current weight of 151, and would ideally like to be around 140, which I am working towards).

However, I feel awkward responding when people say something in a public setting (i.e. a party, etc) exclaiming "damn! Laura got skinny!"

Usually when people have said something a little more privately, I respond with a "yeah, I've really been watching what I eat" or "thanks. I have been working pretty hard at it" etc.  But in a public situation, I'm kind of just like... "uh, thanks?"

I mean, I lost most of the weight over the summer, when no one saw me, but they have been around me constantly (and I mean constantly... at least 20 hrs/week) so they should've gotten used to it?

Is this the right response?  Is it awkward? Is there a better way to deal with the situation?

I think just acknowledging their comments with a polite  thank you is best. no explanations or anything unless they ask. maybe change the subject so that you dont remain the focus of attention.

Give them your best smile and say "Thank-you!  I feel great!" 

One thing about being over wieght is that many of us tend to try to blend into the wood-work.  Being at the center of attention when you feel like crap is not pleasant.  But that is not the case for you, so enjoy the attention.  It's all good.

I appreciate when people comment on my weight loss. In fact, when someone mentions it, I tell them, "Thanks for noticing; I've really been working on it."  In addition to seeing the results on the scale, having people notice is a real motivator for me. 

It is very motivating.  :-)  I definitely agree!  I love it! (Especially combined with the fact that I was wearing a pair of jeans that now fit well instead of snug).

I just feel awkward when people say something in front of a large crowd of people, perhaps because it also means admitting that I was larger before?  (Although on an athletic frame, 170 really isn't THAT big...)

I was just thinking, I haven't been approached in a crowd of people I don't know about my weight loss.  THAT might make a difference, and I might feel a little uncomfortable, too.  Hadn't thought about that. And, maybe the fact that I started out at 307 lbs and am currently at 233 makes me more needy for acknowledgment, even though I have a way to go. 

Anyway, if that's your photo, tyrdrop, you look terrific!  And, I have no doubt you'll make it to 140. 

I respond just as you do when it is one on one, and I haven't been faced with the public screamer.  I think your "uh, thanks?" is about perfect.  I certainly wouldn't go into any details.  The less you make of it, the sooner people will focus on other things.

I wouldn't assume any negative value, either, in terms of people thinking oh, she must have been really fat before.  As Art Linkletter (before your time, I know) used to say "Kids say the darnedest things!"  Just substitute "people" for "kids".

I think the best thing to do is simply accept the compliment!! It's a wonderful thing that you're loosing weight and it's a wonderful thing that people are noticing! Embrace it, love it & get motivated by what people are saying... so you can stay on track and accomplish your goals!

Yeah, it is a little rude for someone to do that in that context, but you can't live in denial about where you were either.  Embrace where you were, because its part of where you are.  If you deny it, its a quick way back.  Love who you are, love your accomplishments, always put that self love first.  And, enjoy the attention, even if you know it means that they noticed before that you were heavier.  I always say, who i was then has no relation to who I am now, so why should I be ashamed of it?  Its past.

I usually smile, thank them, and then make a joke out of it to diffuse some of the awkwardness. Like "Thanks, I've been working out!" with an exaggerated bicep flexing pose.

I'm mainly just surprised that anyone even notices.