Hello everyone. I am so glad to have found this website. I desperately needed some motivation and comfort that I am not alone in this fight. I have been fighting the battle of the bulge all of my life. I lost 80 lbs one time, then 100 lbs the next...only to gain it all back. I feel like I know how to lose weight...and I know how to gain weight...I just can't seem to master the art of maintenance. And now here I am, trying to start eating healthy again to see if I can get down to my goal weight of 150 lbs. It seems pretty far away and I am worried that I just don't have it in me to dust myself off and try again. I was good for the past two weeks - eating healthy and not obsessing about food, then I stepped on the scale and was up one pound and that did it. I lost my momentum and spent this past weekend eating everything I had so carefully avoided the two weeks before. I need to find a way to lose the weight and keep it off this time. I am hoping that by sharing with others and reading your stories too, that I can keep my motivation high and to find the strength to try again when I trip up.
Thanks for listening

Hi and welcome to 3FC.

Good luck with your goals.

Hugs
Michelle

"I am worried that I just don't have it in me..."

If I may, that may be your biggest problem right there. I know it's mine, and it is for many others too. We defeat ourselves with our thoughts and the words that come out of our mouths.

YOU HAVE IT IN YOU! YOU ARE SUCCEEDING!

Make that your thoughts and words. Tell yourself everyday. It may sound silly, but it helps a lot. There are actually a lot of studies now saying how much positive thoughts and words can help, whether you are losing weight or quitting smoking. I printed little signs to post around my home, and I read them out loud every time I walk by one.

"I AM LOSING WEIGHT, AND I FEEL GREAT!"
"I CAN SEE THE NEW ME, AND IT MAKES ME HAPPY!"

I know it may feel weird or seem silly, but it really does work! Don't defeat yourself. You need the encouragement of others, but you also need the encouragement from yourself.

God bless, and I look forward to hearing that you've met your goal!

Hey Chippie, welcome to the site. You'll find a lot of inspiration and encouragement. Best wishes in your journey!

"Getting up...dusting myself off...and trying once again."

I also wanted to say that that's the best thing you do.

A Japanese proverb (and a similar Biblical proverb) says, "Fall down seven times, get up eight." Keep trying, and never give up. If you hit a stumbling block, do like you said - pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep on going. Just make sure to keep an eye out for those stumbling blocks and try to steer clear!

You are right about watching my wording...don't want to set myself up for failure right at the outset. Will keep an ear out for negative wording and put a more positive spin next time

Welcome to 3FC and we are glad you are her, please keep us updated on your progress

Welcome and good luck!

Dhani

Hello and welcome to 3FC. Good luck to you in your journey and in reaching all your goals.

Thanks everyone for the kind words of welcome and support