Hey everyone! I've been reading posts off and on for a couple of years and feel like now is the time to start posting. I've been overweight most of my adult life, and I am just so over it. My goal is to try and post at least once every day just to gain some accountability. I have a long road ahead of me, and I am glad to have somewhere to go for the support I need. I look forward to getting to know you.

Just a side note, I feel like I did really well today not overeating. Really proud of myself getting through a whole day. Very rarely ever happens. Not planning on following any specific diet plan. I just don't stick to them. Just going to be more aware of what I'm eating and not eating mindlessly.

Deciding you're ready is a huge part of the battle.

Might I suggest that you reconsider not having a plan at all (calorie counting, WW, etc.)? The reason I say that is because what you've been doing hasn't given you the results you want, so perhaps something more specific would help you get there?

Good luck!

Welcome and good luck on your journey!!

Best of luck !

One of my stepping stones was writing down my calories, but not putting a limit on them. Once I saw how much I was eating, and then ran the number to find how much I could lose if I ate X calories less, it wasn't so hard cutting them.

At my highest weight I was eating 10,000 + calories per day.
During the first 3 months of dieting I was eating 3,000 - 4,000 per day
And beginning around month 4 I started cutting them by just a couple hundred calories slowly.
Now I eat only 1,500 - 1,700 and it isn't nearly as "painful" as I remember!

You are an inspiration!

Unfortunately, having a plan in the past is what hasn't worked for me. I've tried calorie counting and various other diets. I don't like feeling like I'm being controlled. I automatically feel deprived and I cheat, then feel bad, then give up. Terrible cycle. Ugh! Why does it have to be so hard?

Thanks for all the well wishes and the advice. I had another great day today. Just being aware of what I'm putting in my mouth and knowing what my goal is, is really helping me so far. I know it's only day two, but hey, it's one day at a time, right?

I am new to posting on this forum as well! I decided I do better when I have support from those who are trying to do exactly what I am trying to accomplish too. I like this forum because it's safe. As much as I love my family and friends, their well meaning advice is either hypocritical, judgmental, or unwanted. I was part of a forum for Insanity from the BeachBody company community, but they charged you quarterly to for access to the website and that "extra support."

I hope there is a way I can check in with you all on my triumphs and failures each day knowing that the people here care and are supportive. Look forward to posting with you all!