I keep trying....

OKay, I'm trying to lose weight for about the billionth time in my life.  I have extensive knowledge of health and nutrition but to look at me, you would not know this.  I believe I have hidden behind my weight for years because of emotional reasons...feeling as if I'm not a loveable person.  I am in a service profession and have lived my life always helping others and the less fortunate, while not taking care of the one person that I need to care for: ME!  I have two great kids who need their mom.  I am extremely active and my weight has never been a detriment in doing things; however, I have a huge pouch that lies over my legs and in personal relationships, this has certainly been a hinderance.  7 months ago, the love of my life decided that he wanted to move on and that sent me to gain about 10 pounds which hasn't helped me feel more loveable.  I am intelligent, educated and I know deep inside that I am a wonderful person....so why, can't I put myself at the top of the pile and take care of the needs I have that will allow me to be successful in managing the weight that I hate?  I am in counseling, trying to figure that out.  It will be a long process, but I do believe that when I stop looking for my happiness from outside sources and tap within myself to see that I am all that I truly need, with the love and support of those that really care, then I believe I will be able to lose weight successfully.  How many others out there struggle with the emotional burdens we place upon ourselves?  If you do, please let me know.  Laura

I do, for sure, and I know that many other people do that are on here. Over eating isn't just something that can be easily 'fixed' like some people think. Neither is the addiction to sugar. It all takes time.

Welcome to CC, and feel free to ask questions of any of us for things you may not know (though you did say you have extensive knowledge, which is awesome), or you can read the FAQ.

You've already conquered the first step: realizing there's a problem.

You are a giver, and as such, tend not to give enough to yourself, but you're realized that without taking care of yourself, you aren't able to give as much as you'd like to!

Bravo for the self realizations, and keep on keeping on.  Never let anyone, or anything, stop you from being good to YOU.

This year will make the hundredth time I've made a plan, set goals, got excited, and started over. I eat because it makes me feel better even if it is only temporary. You sound like your getting your ducks in a row. Support is a wonderful tool. Good luck to all of us!

There are only a few reasons I am/was fat:  genetics, self-medicating my anxiety, bad habits from my family, and trying to push people away from me.  I know all about emotional issues as they relate to eating.  I have never tried to lose weight before, because I knew I wasn't ready.  I wasn't ready to give up the comfort and benefits of over eating. 

When I was finally ready, I started with honesty and determination.  I knew what I had to do, and I just did it.  I've lost 92 pounds so far and am quickly approaching my goal.  This does NOT mean I haven't had bad moments (check out my self-pity journal if you want.)

At some point, you have to become important to yourself.  If you have made that change, then doing the right things will come much easier.

I wish you luck and hope you conquer!

Lajaraco- THIS IS YOUR YEAR!

Us women often put others before ourselves it's in our nature, (especially moms, I love my mommy). But back to the point, commit to losing how ever much you decide is enough and set small goals as well as long term goals and reward yourself. Any man that's worth keeping around will want to stay around and will want the best for the both of you. It's easy put on weight because of a loss be it relationship or otherwise, but I say flip that thing around use it to motivate you to treat yourself better. (by the way there is a song by Natasha beddingfield called "single" good for post break ups)