In February of 2007 I started tracking my calories and watching what I was eating. As most of you know I started at 288 pounds.
This is the photo that inspired me to want to change.
I saw this photo and I was so embarrassed for myself that I made a decision to do something about it. I jumped in without a plan. It was a diet, not a lifestyle change. And, it worked for a little while.
I lasted about two months and got down to 274. A respectable loss to be sure. Alas it was not to be sustained. By April I was off the diet and eating worse than ever. By June I was back up to 280.
June is when my weight loss journey really started. June is when I started this blog. Shortly there after I set some realistic goals and put together a healthy eating and exercise plan.
June is also when I discovered my real motivation. For the first time, I wanted to lose weight to be healthy for myself and my family. It was less about vanity this time around and more about living a quality life and being there for my daughters.
And this time it worked.
So here are the 3 things I have learned this year that have made all the difference.
1. You have to find the right motivation.
Maybe vanity is the right motivation for you. Maybe it's a doctor telling you you will die if you don't get in shape. The motivation needs to be more than "I want to lose some weight." Take the time to figure out why you want to lose that weight and that motivation well get you through the tough times.
2. You have to find something or someone to hold you accountable.
Maybe it's Weight Watchers. Maybe it's a spouse or a friend. For me it was this blog. You can not do this alone. You will need support and encouragement.
3. You have to exercise.
Without exercise you're simply dieting. Exercise changes everything.! Just start walking a half hour a day, everyday. Walk as fast as you can. Once your comfortable build up to more strenuous exercise. Eventually you will learn to love it.
Tony
2/05: 216.8lbs
NEW GOAL: 214
2.8 pounds to go.
2 comments:
Congrats on your one year anniversary! What a difference a year makes. You really look great and I'm sure you feel SO much better. You have nailed the top three ways to ensure success. I agree 100% with those. That's *exactly* what made a difference for me, too. Here's to a super year 2!
Everytime you post that picture I think the same thing... I cannot believe how small Tony has gotten and how big Maggie has!! Keep up the good work, you are doing great!
Nana Heather
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