Well, this is it. I am committing to a new lifestyle, and I want to be held accountable. I don't really have any friends here yet, even though I've been here for a year and a half (Texas). Of course, the main reason for that is I'm socially handicapped, in large part due to my weight and how I perceive that other people perceive me.

I put it that way, because most people probably don't perceive me the way I think they do, but it's a mind thing. We are own worst critics, and can be our own worst enemies.

Anyway, regardless of what other people think, *I* am unhappy with how I look. I am disgusted and depressed whenever I look in the mirror. I was reading someone's post, and she talked about how she was sick of living the life of lies she created just to try to fit in and feel loved. I have been the same way, living a fantasy digital life through social websites and video games.

My social life is practically non-existent. Due to my weight, my perception of myself, and how I was treated when I was a kid, I am socially inept. I call it social immaturity. I simply don't know how to act in social settings or how to treat friends, because I have so little experience and so little confidence. My self-esteem is practically nonexistent.

Currently, I am a tad shy of 5'11" and weigh 233 lbs., with a 43" waist. My weight has been all over the place over the last 15 years, and frankly I'm sick of this roller coaster. I'm tired of extra large shirts and hoping the cashier doesn't see the size on the pants I'm buying. I'm tired of the lack of confidence that comes with being unhappy with the way I look. I'm tired of getting up to speak in front of people and being terrified, feeling I am a hideous monster. I'm tired of my lack of confidence and self-esteem. But mostly, I'm just tired of feeling tired.

I want to look good, feel good, be healthy, and feel great about how I look (not to mention the boost to confidence and self-esteem that comes with all that). I want to experience NOT being out of breath every time I climb the stairs to my apartment. I want to be able to see photos or video of me without being disgusted and depressed. I want to slap those new jeans down on the counter and beam at the waist size sticker. I want a new me! I *WILL* get there!

I'm new too. Welcome!

Well congrats on taking the first step to changing yourself dude! It's really brave of you to admitting to your weaknesses and getting the strength to make yourself stronger and preparing to create a better you! I hope you reach all of your goals!!

P.S. No need to be afraid to befriend people here. We're all here for the same purpose, no one's here to judge. We're here to encourage and motivate!! And I'm also new here as well. We can do this!!

--Victoria

Hi and welcome to 3FC.

Good luck with your goals.

Hugs
Michelle

I am new here too! I just started my journey.. and Im not quite 5'11 lol but I am at 221 pounds .. I know how you feel. I just got out of a relationship in which I was called "fat" almost everyday for 5 years. I understand the lack of self esteem... as we are here for similar reasons.
You CAN do this. I have been at it for a little over a week, counting my calories on livestrong.com and doing leslie sansone's walk away the pounds. I am already up to 3 miles a day. There is no greater feeling then to wake up in the morning and know that you will get there because you are doing what it takes!

Just message me when you need support! You are not alone my friend!

Hello future skinny guy This future skinny girl would like to congratulate you. It's actually pretty tough coming on here and sharing such personal information about oneself. It's so rewarding though. If you ever need extra support then this is the perfect place for it. Myself as well as others will help you with anything you need.

to you for making this important decision to put your life in the right direction. You're going to love it here. The people on this forum are so friendly, and supportive, and they're wonderful when you need some motivation.

So, welcome, and good luck on your weight loss goals. You can do it! We can do it!

Welcome to the site! Best wishes on your journey here. We're with you.

That's amazing - the outpouring of support and kindness so quick! Thank you, each and every one of you, for your kind words.

This is only my second day, but August 8th, 2010, marks the first day of the rest of my new, healthy, happy life.

purduefan: Thank you, and welcome to you too!

from thick to thin: Thank you very much. The motivation and encouragement is the main reason I decided to sign up. That, and I want to be held accountable.

Onederchic: Thank you!

bran0917: Thank you, and welcome to you as well! It is so sad that people say the things they say without thinking of the hurt it causes. But I am glad to say that from here on out, I plan to turn all the hurtful things I've endured into positive results for my life.

ShiningStar05: (aka "future skinny girl"!) Thank you very much. I appreciate it, and that's a reason I decided to post here. I could sense that support in the posts I read.

lostinstaticx: We can do it! Thank you. That friendliness is already very evident.

LiliK: Thank you!

LOL, you're very welcome. I'm fairly new too and that's why I decided to post here. I'd found this site months ago and have been lurking since then but I finally got the courage up to make a name in post. The support and inspirational stories are so encouraging.

Welcome!

Welcome to the site...and good luck w/ your goals!!!

I can so identify myself with all you said, I guess alot of people here can. Im already proud of you for saiyng all that, its the first step to a better life! Good Luck! And enjoy the journey!

Hello JCSpencer - the future skinny guy.

There are a bunch of us guys on 3 Fat Chicks, despite the name. Glad you've joined us.

Good job at recognizing that your body shape isn't perceived as grossly overweight by others. As you can see from my stats, I started out heavier than you are now despite being a couple of inches shorter.

Checking in with a group here is definitely a good way to stay on your plans.

Hope to see you around the different threads. Good luck.

Welcome to 3FC, we are glad you are here!