I've been overweight all my life & dieting for a large portion of it.

I've successfully lost, successfully maintained (at above goal level, but still), regained, re-lost, ... well, you name it, I've done it.

My weight rose again last year before I got back on top of it - in 2009 I lost 30 pounds. I was stable through the holidays & am now back on track.

But for long term success I've realized I need to find a way for it not to be a constant battle, but rather a long term commitment to eating & moving at a level I can sustain & that doesn't stress me out.

I'm interested to know if the idea of pursuing weight loss (or maintenance) while keeping it low stress (free of perfectionism & heavy pressure) is something that others are interested in to - or maybe I'm all alone in this way of thinking?

Welcome Sarah! First, wow, I'm jealous you are in Paris!!! Envy, envy, envy!! Second, there are some folks here at 3FC who are working on Intuitive Eating. There's a thread in Maintainers about Lifestyle Based Maintenance---looking for that balance. I'm sure you'll find a home here. Surf around and post lots.

Welcome Sarah! I think Maintenance is truly the hardest part. Like you, I have lost weight before, maintained for a while, but eventually ended up regaining. Do check out the Maintainers Forum as Midwife suggested, there are some fabulous Maintainers there.