I'm a newbie. I'm a single gal who just turned 40 and has finally realized that I have to do something about my weight. I have alot to lose, so this is definitely going to be a long journey. I've been heavy all my life, so I don't really know what good eating habits are! I know what I should do, but it's making myself do it that I struggle with. I lost 25 pounds last year, but have gained it all back after the recent death of my Mom. There are other stressful things going on in my life right now and as usual I'm dealing with the stress by eating. Food is most definitely my emotional crutch. I'm really struggling to get back to that mindset I had when I was able to stay focused and motivated to lose the weight.
I'm hoping to find support, new ideas, and strategies for staying on track!
I hope I'm doing this right-I've never posted to a forum before!

. . . glad to have you joining us, Chickie and you have definitely taken a great first step on the journey to better health and fitness by coming here -- it's a really great place for lots of support.

Welcome to the forum! I'm sorry to hear about your mother. I'm new also and so far everyone has been super friendly. I've received great advice already from other members. I have the same issues that you do with using food as an emotional crutch and finding motivation to start programs. The best advice I've received so far was to take things slowly. Don't try to do everything at once or you'll get frustrated or overwhelmed. Try little things at first like drinking more water, then gradually add other life changing patterns. In any case, I wish you the best of luck and hope you meet your goals!

Thanks, onlywishes.
It can definitely be overwhelming when you have alot to lose. It doesn't help that I have an 'all or nothing' mentality. If I don't eat exactly what I'm supposed to, I tend to just throw in the towel for the whole day, then promise to start fresh the next day. Sometimes I do, sometimes I don't.
I'm trying to start slowly so I can be consistent with something, like taking a 15 minute walk every day. If I can do that consistently and build up some confidence, maybe I can add another good habit and keep it up.
Ugh, change (even for the better) is scary!

Welcome! I'm sorry about your Mom. Don't dwell on the weight you regained... just move forward. We're all here for you.