You Can Accomplish Anything!
The title is one tip that our this week's featured member, Carlymariex would like to share with you. Her story is very inspirational as she’s a teenager who realized she had the power to change her unhealthy eating habits by eating balanced meals and incorporating physical exercise. She has since lost 38lbs.
She 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 was of average size in middle school and even in the beginning of my freshman year of high school, but around Christmas of 2008 I just began eating what I wanted because I figured that I had a good metabolism. In June of 2009, I was getting ready for a horse show after not doing one for some time. I was rushing to get on my horse, and had to put on my show jacket. Before that, I had not tried it on - and I had gained nearly 40 pounds in a little over a year. My mom had to help me button the jacket, which was so hard - it was like squeezing me through a straw, and it just wouldn't button! The same applied to my blouse, which was a size 8. As she was buttoning the jacket, my mom said to me, "Please watch it, I'm worried about you". That just really struck me. And the fact that horse show attire is very expensive further motivated me to fit back into my old clothes!
2. What other "diets" (programs, products, plans, or services) had you tried in the past?
I really just did it on my own - my father offered to bring me to the gym (his way of getting me to lose weight. Sneaky!) I changed my eating habits and I joined a website geared towards Teens. Halfway through my weight-loss journey I joined Calorie Count.
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?
As a teenager, it was exceedingly difficult for me to commit to a healthy lifestyle at first, but I had to do it. I began laying off starches, breads and sugars (big staples of my then-diet) then I started eating more fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. I also tried to go to the gym every week, beginning at 2 times a week and gradually increasing that number to nearly 5 times. I made a promise to myself that I was not going to continue being the fat girl, as I wanted my old body back so desperately. I also started counting calories. When my friends slept in on weekends, I was already at the gym, hitting up the cardio machines. When my family went to the ice cream stand, I got an Italian ice. Simple changes like that really were what lead me to success.
4. Please describe how Calorie Count was instrumental to your weight loss.
I didn't join CC until after I completed my weight loss and began maintaining, but I would always Google specific questions about weight loss, and the first site that would pop up would be CC! The boards and members on here mentioned such helpful advice, and I found out that a lot of other people were going through what I did. Not to mention, they had the nutrition information for nearly everything - even Chinese food!
5. What difficulties did you experience losing weight?
My family was supportive, but because my sister and father aren't the healthiest, most active people, their attitudes and actions always tempted me to give in. That said, there was always junk food in the house. By working on my willpower and uncovering my love for baking healthy desserts and cooking, I was able to dodge that challenge. Also, weight loss as a busy high-schooler is very difficult. I'd come home from school wiped, just wanting to watch television and surf Facebook, but I knew that I had to go to the gym. And there were so many times in which I'd be limited on time, so I'd study for the following morning's test on the elliptical machine, or read my textbooks on the treadmill. By fitting exercise into my schedule, it was a way for me to relieve stress but get studying done at the same time.
6. How long did it take you to see results? When did you realize that you were a success?
After about a month or so, my mom began commenting on how much more toned I looked since starting up at the gym. Then, not long after that, my clothes began feeling looser and looser. That was all the motivation that I needed to continue. After awhile, more and more people commented on my loss - from my grandparents to even the owner of my gym! When I hit my ultimate goal weight of 135 in April 2011, it all seemed so surreal to me.
7. How do you prevent relapse?
Moderation is definitely my secret weapon. I eat what I like, but I always fit it into my calorie budget for the day (yep, I'm hooked on calorie counting). I realized that it is very hard to only limit yourself to only one "treat" once a week or so when you're out with friends a lot. I'm also an avid gym-goer. I relieve stress at the gym, which I love. Both of those things as well as continuing my healthy new lifestyle are the foundation of my maintaining plan.
8. How has your life changed now that you've lost weight?
Everything, from my horseback riding performance to my social life has changed dramatically. I'm so confident, and I'm actually in the best shape that I've ever been in my life. I'm slimmer than I was before I gained weight, and healthier, too. I have so much more energy and drive. I'm not embarrassed to speak up and talk to someone new because I'm afraid of how they'll perceive me because I'm fat. My favorite thing to do is to wear an outfit that makes me feel incredibly confident in my new body.
9. How long have you maintained your current weight?
I've maintained my current weight for about four months now. I'm still trying to fully change from weight-loss mode to maintenance. It was scary for me to increase my calories and lay off the intense cardio at the gym, but I have realized that it's working for my body. Now, my goal is to gain some more muscle to further work on that lean, muscular frame.
10. What five tips do you have for other dieters?
- Everyone asks me exactly what they should do in order to succeed, but I realized that many of the problems that people face don't have to do with other people trying to tempt you - it's yourself. That said, you need to work on your willpower and confidence FIRST. Without those two, weight-loss is impossible.
- A strong support system is also great, whether that is a circle of buddies on CC that have the same goals as you or even your own mom. You have to realize that weight loss is a mind-over-matter deal. You have to do what is best for your body, not your cravings, even if you think that the better option may be tastier. That also includes working out even when you feel like doing anything but.
- One of the biggest things I found was to not compare yourself to others. I used to be the biggest of all of my friends, and even though it motivated me to lose the weight at first, as I became slimmer I began comparing their bodies to my own, which decreased my confidence. Everyone is different.
- You just can't expect to look like someone else because their body seems so much better. You have to have faith in yourself. You can accomplish ANYTHING. By keeping faith, willpower and confidence close by, you will feel incredible - the weight loss will follow.
- Plan out days for weighing yourself, taking off from working out (recovery day), and a day in which you'll have a special "treat." For example, I usually weigh myself on Sundays, rest on Fridays because I'm usually out with my friends, I usually splurge on Fridays as well. If you have a set schedule in place, you won't forget the last time you did any of those things. It is also nice to be organized (and to have a set recovery day every week that you can look forward to!
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
My daughter (18) and I have been on this challenge for our selves and supporting each other all summer. Your story is quite like ours. Very motivational. Congratulations, I love that you are doing it in a healthy way! It is back to university time for her and I know that she has learned how to be healthy and fit. They should teach that in school! How nutrients effect our bodies and lack of, make us sick. You have taught yourself a great gift! Health.
You are a lovely young woman and I'm so proud of you. I'm so glad you changed your lifestyle in a smart, healthy way. Being a teenager today is a tough thing, and add being heavy to the mix, has got to be awful. You are a true role model for your peers!! Doing this when you're young will make your whole adult life a lot better!!
So glad you were able to turn it around now and not have to sludge through it later in life! Stick to your foundations! Way to go!
Chris
link to my blog and 130lb loss story in my profile
Amazing!! I only wish I had the same willpower and confidence when I was a teenager.
Way to take control, so early in your life. It will continue to produce great benefits as you get older.
Original Post by: runninghomeI think you are really wise for your age - not comparing yourself, moderation, etc. Great job!
^This^ multliplied by at least two, big well done!
I love reading these success stories, thank you and you are such an inspiration.
You are little in age but very wise. True inspiration :) keep it up. Never give up
It's wonderful to hear that you had enough confidence in yourself to do this the right away - and kudos to your mom's support! I think a lot of the times our peers and families don't help us and provide temptations instead of support. My father keeps sweets and candy ALL over the house, and always tells me to have a little more. It's hard to say no and I commend you on being able to do that. At the healthy weight you are now, life opens up so many more possibilities!
Flag football, playing frisbee or just simple fun activities are often taken for granted but harder if you are out of shape. Keep it up, and be careful of college food when you get there. My downfall was college - HORRIBLE choices for students - avoid college food if you can, and if you cannot - remember, you do NOT have to finish everything. Wasting some money or wasting your health over time. CONGRATS AND GOOD LUCK!
Oh my gosh...this is incredible. Thank you so much everyone. :) And good luck on all of your journies!
I admire how you were able to accomplish your goal without developing the eating disorders I have in the past. I wish I could reverse time and do it over the way you have.
I admire how you were able to accomplish your goal without developing the eating disorders I have in the past. I wish I could reverse time and do it over the way you have.
First I'm impressed with your desire to not only lose the WEIGHT but work on fitness as well. That's where I am struggling.
Also, I'm very excited for you that your family was supportive, but not pushy, at least not from what you posted. I also worry for my 15 year old daughter, ibut I don't want to "push" her and end up breaking her self-confidence instead of helping.
Lastly, not only have you done great with your journey, but you can write! I just had to say that you did a wonderful job, and as a teacher that's awesome!
What an inspiration! You are totally doing something positive for yourself that will benefit you for many, many years to come. I only wish I could have gone on this same journey at such a young age instead of waiting until my mid-20s. You look great, it sounds like you feel great, and your philosophy is great to read as well. Way to go!
Congrats. Being heavy is always tough, but I remember it was even more challenging as a teen. Keep up the good work and be sure to reach out to other overweight teens.
Young and wise, what a combination. You are beautiful and your confidence shows in your after photo. Keep up the good work. Excellent A+!!
Congratulations on a great job! You look fantastic. I also want to say that you are very well-spoken (well-written, lol?). Wise words written in a wise fashion. Be proud of your accomplishment!
Congratulations, you look fabulous. I hope you are very proud of yourself & never let go of your progress. Bless you.
Thank you Carly! How wonderful that you are able to develop these habits(calorie counting and exercise) so early in your life! I too, thin early on because of all the running I did as a kid, had it all catch up with in in High School. We can each point to different times, eras, events, in our lives, where weight gain seemed inevitable and for good reasons too! For a long time I really thought I could not lose weight, too old, too late, medication and limited mobility. Amazingly all of those"excuses" fell before the simple fact that if you count your calories and move about (best I can do at times), you lose weight! Amazing, huh? I spent a lot of time around and with horses when I was growing up. How I loved to watch them move, so effortlessly and so many of them with that little extra "snap" that says," I am beautiful, strong and wonderful, look at me!" We can all have that "snap"! I am proud of you.
Congrats on your success! You're an inspiration to both young & old...a reminder that if we are determined to make positive changes then we will receive positive results.
Not taking anything away from your achievements but it is easier for young people to do this than older ones whose metabolisms are slowing down through natural aging. But I do think this will stand you in good stead for later on in life and applaud you!
Lucylocket1966, This is a total load of crap!!! I was told the same thing. I'm 52 and I've lost 124 lbs. I was also told I'd gain weight after quitting smoking. Another myth. I actually lost weight because I continued to eat right and workout. All these lies are told to us by people that sell so called "diets" and gizmos for losing weight. Tobacco companies made up these "withdrawl symptoms" to scare us into not quitting. The "media machine" makes us think we couldn't possibly lose weight or quit smoking without their "diet crap" and "patches" quit smoking "gum" or other expensive products. Not everyone can afford $800.00 a month for Jenny Craig!!! I'm NEVER going to let ANYONE tell me I CAN'T do something!!!!
like I said, there is no shortage of people wanting to sell you something that you can do on your own for FREE!
Dear Calimeriex, What a wow job you have done for yourself! Yes!!. I applaud you and know that you have all you need to keep this together for the rest of your life, and if not 100%, I know you will not let anything get in your way of what you know is best for you.:) Dear philfan1, I too believe that at 70 and 51 lbs later, with 3 years of maintenance behind me - can't never tried. As we get older I do feel we get a little stubborn (willpower) we will do it! We can do it.:) Thank you all for another Great Day. aea
Your story is so motivational! I love the way you think and hope to have a story of my own soon. Congrats on the new life you have blessed yourself with! 
I am also a teen, and have recently begun a new diet and workout routine, and I hope it works!
The bad part is the frightening thoughts telling me to do it unhealthily, so instead of splurging on the bad stuff and taking care of it later (as I have in the past), I'm sticking to the healthy stuff (because purging doesn't work in the long run).
Growing up a little bit since my first few horrible attemps at weight loss has helped me see that it is better to lose weight gradually and not hurt my body than to do it quickly using unhealthy and short-term methods.
Knowing someone like me has done it and is healthy and beautiful is very inspirational.
That was really well written, and I agree with everything you said! Your situation sounds very similar to mine, everything from before you started gaining weight, to the journey. I'm still going through my journey but I've accomplished a lot while doing it and it makes you feel motivated to keep going. Right now I have a sore foot though so that removes running or anything that involves moderate pressure on my feet from my schedule.. which couldn't have come at a worse time, because it happened after I completed a 14km fun run in a very (comparatively) impressive time! After a run like that you just want to get back on the road and keep running.
It is so very wonderful to see young people who are treating their bodies like they were a gift. Of course they are, but the gift must be treated correctly to respond well to life and to give us the best out of life. To learn this while so very young is a remarkable start that can help you enjoy life. Thank you for such a helpful afternoon - no short cuts we need to live it all. aea
Dear coolbrett, Never having been a runner since 6th grade, I am not sure about the trials that you meet. I do know that whenever I suffered any soreness in my body it was somewhat relieved with warm epsom salt baths that I would soak in not more than 20 minutes. Do not make the water so warm as to break a sweat because you loose the effectiveness of the magnesium that your body will absorb and that is what you want to do. The bath is wonderful and can be enjoyed as a spa day at home if you have some candles and soft music to enjoy with it. Do drink water with a few mint leaves in it and a squeeze of lemon or some bruised lemon balm leaves. Rosemary twigs rubbed on the body helps the skin feel great! So does fresh thyme.:) aea
So wise for someone so young! I sometimes wonder what life would have been like if I had figured it out sooner, but better late than never :)
Thank you for sharing your story!! You look amazing!
You've inspired me to be the better me. Thank you! By the way, you look great! :)
AHHHH thank you so much!:) this is the story i needed to hear. I am not like fat but i am not skinny and i eat horrible! So i needed to read a story of someone around my age that stayed motivated with counting calories and going to the gym. I started a week ago and have lost five pounds. i am only trying to lose like 15! but thank you so much. You look awesome!
Congratulations! I wish my son would do the same! He has gained so much weight since he changed positions at his job. I try to tell him how bad it is for his health but he just won't do anything. No one can tell you to loose weight unless you yourself do it. I myself have lost 28 lbs. since April 2011 and have been able to mainain my weight at 114 lbs. I started with CC and kept it up until I lost my weight. I maintain it with CC and CC has helped me a lot - not only to loose the weight but maintain it which is the hardest part! I'm gong to have my son read your story in hopes that it will inspire him. Thank you for sharing!
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I think you are really wise for your age - not comparing yourself, moderation, etc. Great job!