[Andi140]

Hello everyone! So a little about me to start. I'm a 38 year old working wife and mother of two. I've been overweight all my life but am currently at my highest weight ever of around 255. I was one of those that always put on a brave face when criticized but it hurt nonetheless. I know my health is terrible and my habits need to change drastically but I'm struggling with figuring out exactly what that can mean for me in terms of getting everything else done. My obstacles are a combination of time and motivation. Leaving for work at 7 and getting home at 6 doesn't leave a lot of time to try and fit exercising into the daily routine. The idea of doing it at 5 a.m. or 9 p.m. isn't thrilling but those are my only realistic options during the week. And if I'm being brutally honest, I tend to be one of those people who avoids trying as a way of avoiding failure. My long term goal is to lose about 115 which would put me within my normal BMI range. So I guess what would help me from you guys is obviously the support and encouragement but primarily ideas and examples from people in similar life situations as to how you fit it all in. When do you fit in the exercise? How do you work in healthier meals when dinner is cooked mostly in the crockpot or microwave? What did you do to kick yourself in the pants when needed? Anything at all that would help me jumpstart a life change. Thanks to everyone!

[elvislover324]

Welcome!!

I hear you on the long days and trying to fit in exercise and good eating. I tried making my own reasons to my nutritionist about why I couldn't fit in good habits and she helped me figure out a new game plan. If I couldn't exercise for 45 mins at a time, could I do 10-15 mins a few times a day? Of course I could! Once I put it in that mindset, it was "easy" (exercise is never easy, is it?!). Then for eating, buying a food scale was essential to my portion control. I can have all the fruits and veggies I want but planning out the protein was so hard (what 4oz of meat is in my head vs. what it is on the scale was a huge difference!). Making big batches of food and then putting them in portion controlled containers was essential in helping me get the weight off. Also, making sure that the star of my meals is fruits and veggies with a "side" of meat and starch almost instantly changed my life. I also do at least 64oz of calorie free drinks a day (usually flavored seltzer) to make sure I'm well hydrated and full.

In regards to 3fc, I joined a few groups where I felt comfortable chatting and also joined a couple of challenges to post and "compete" with others while we all cheered each other on. This forum made my weight loss journey fun (or as fun as it could be!).

I hope this helps, good luck!