I am a 33 year old mother of two boys, my husband and I divorced in October and I realized that after two kids and thirteen years with him, I have put on about 35 lbs that I don't want. I have always struggled with my weight but managed to maintain about 145-155 until the past four years or so. I feel tired all the time and dont have the energy to do the things my kids enjoy. I know I eat all the wrong foods, don't work out enough, and don't make enough time for myself, for me, its that simple. I just don't know how to make the time to do it. I have tried many diets over the years, tried Curves once and stopped going after the first month, tried points with Weight Watchers and stopped after the first week and have a free fitness center at work I haven't used for two years. I want to be healthy and active enough to keep up with my 5 and 10 year old so I have been going it alone for two months and lost 4 lbs, I am starting on the Curves diet and exercise plan tomorrow hoping for more consistent results. At this point, I know I need support to do this and I would appreciate any suggestions for staying motivated and on track. I need help! Thanks and have a great day.

I have 5 and 8 year old boys -- they definitely keep me busy!!

I have had the most success including them in my efforts. Not so much letting them know I want/need to lose weight as the fact we all need to eat healthier and get more exercise. I decided if I wasn't eating very well, chances were they weren't either -- so we are all trying to work on it together. Also, my 8 year old seems to be a lot like his mother -- coach potato who loves junk food and I honestly don't want these characteristics to be passed on to him.

Take little steps -- make better food choices, try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise a few times a week -- some days it's just me playing baseball wtih the kids or jumping on the trampoline, but that's more fun than running on a treadmill anyway

Good luck!!!

Hi Jessica. Welcome to the forums here. I think joining this group of women and men is a great start to learning more about getting healthy. I can tell you a little about how I am staying motivated. But I highly recommend that you re-post your question again in another area of these forums, so you can be sure to get the maximum responses.

I think it helps to set some goals. Set small goals and your big, ultimate goal. When you meet goals, celebrate them and reward yourself (all with non-food rewards, of course). It might help you to find ways of measuring your success other than the scale. I would still use a scale and weigh in weekly or whatever works for you. But you might also consider taking your measurements with a tape measure. And pay attention to how your clothes are fitting you.

You can also set goals with your exercise program. When you see yourself able to do more exercise, it can be very motivating.

For me, in the past, I was losing motivation for 2 reasons, I think: 1- I didn't have any clearly defined goals, or my goal was only for the ideal weight and it seemed too remote or distant, and 2- I didn't get completely involved and committed in the first place.

So I also recommend learning as much as possible about healthy eating and exercise. Don't just do things half hearted. Be really gung ho and make it your hobby or your main interest.

Those are just my thoughts! Hope you find what works for you!

Jessica, welcome to the forum!

Shelby and Susan gave you great advice.

I just wanted to add... I know it's difficult to find time to do what's right for your body. You're going through a transitional time in your life. But the time is there, and you're entitled to take it. Somewhere in your day is "time for Jessica". If you want it enough, you will find it. Be good to yourself.