I haven't been here for a little while because I've sort of been hiding out from 3FC. I've had a terrible week. My 16 year-old brother (who has complex behavioral and mental issues) has come to live with me and the stress has been doing my head in. After a couple of months of being really strict with myself, this week I've let myself slip a few times.

I've been sick with the the flu and it turns out food is a great comfort. Who'd have thought! Anyway, last night I got into the chips after a perfect day of eating. The day before that I drank a few glasses of wine with my sister. Alcohol is a binge-trigger for me, and sure enough, I ended up eating a burger and fries afterwards. Somebody help me!

I'm astounded I haven't put on any weight and have even managed to lose four pounds, but I really need to get back on track and stop making stupid choices. I've come too far to sabotage my own hard work. I don't want to go back to being over 300 lbs. My life is so much better after losing just 44 lbs. I couldn't stand to again be that person who struggled to get around and hated leaving the house because she was so embarrassed about her body.

Have any of you ever been through this? How do you stay focused on your goals and ensure you don't go back to old habits?

What helps me, is to forget about any "slip ups". And you still lost weight, so that's a HUGE advantage. Some may say not a slip up at all; but I know slip ups are more about mind set than calorie count sometimes!

It is hard to stay focused when life starts getting overwhelming. It can be in the background. Just stay on plan as much as possible!

I have to agree with Stephanie - it IS in our heads many times - I don't think you messed up at all, but you did - so you did! Recognizing what your triggers are and then doing something to fix them is the key. You're there.

I hope things calm down and the stress levels drop. God bless you for being there for your brother.

Lin

We all have those days...weeks...just recognizing them is a big thing! Now, just drink a big glass of water for march forward! We purposely have a day each week with some extras and we continue to lose our weight....I would try to chalk it up to over and done! You've got this!!