It has taken me almost 42 years to finally come to the realization that I need to make a change in my life. I am changing my outlook on life, but most importantly, changing the way I look at myself. I am so glad that I found this online support website. I am ready to begin this journey I currently weigh 278 lbs..What is a good goal to set?

I have only been here for a couple of weeks but can tell you, You have came to the right place for support. I have met so many great people. Everyone is nice and supportative.

I am around the same size as you(started at 276) I set my big goal for 175. My first mini goal is to go under 250. I have only 8 more pounds to reach it. I think after I hit that goal I will set my mini goals at about 10 - 15 pounds. I suggest that you dont look at the big goal all that often. Just watch how close you are getting to each mini goal then maybe after you hit a mini goal or two see how much closer you are to the big goal.

The only reason I set my big goal for 175 is I know that 5 1/2 years ago I weighed that much and was in a size 10. Those size 10 jeans are setting on my dresser begging me to use them again.

Welcome to 3FC, isn't it wonderful here?! I am so happy that you have decided to make changes in your life. Small positive changes and doing nice and wonderful things for yourself help that weight loss right along! I wish you strength. Come and visit us at
"The Diet Journey of 2006- 3FC style", we are in the support forum. We would love to be there for you! Catherine

Hi Golden Honey!

You came to your realization WAY ahead of when I did! I have taken 54 years to finally DO THIS, and what I have found is that I had to change myself INSIDE before I could change my OUTSIDE. I am halfway to my goal weight.

For many years I was everything to everyone else, but I was treating MYSELF very poorly.

Congratulations on changing both your outlook on life and the way that you view yourself!

Keep telling yourself how valuable you are and how worthy you are to do what makes YOU happy!

Oh, and to answer your question about setting goals...I set five pound goals, and when I met them I treated myself to something special like a new CD or a new book. I DID NOT treat myself with food. Setting small goals that are attainable helped me to feel successful often. For me, that success feeling really gave me determination to keep going. After about fifteen pounds lost I began needing to replace clothes that were too baggy and sloppy on me. Getting a new pair of pants in a smaller size was a HUGE reward and made me feel very good about myself.

Best wishes!

Cheryl