I lost 30lbs this year by embracing my pride and vanity. 2 of the 7 deadly sins. I finally got tired enough of feeling badly about myself to do something about it and find my motivation.
I think the hardest thing for me was always the motivation. I always talked about losing weight and somethings would work for a few weeks, but then I'd give up. My heart wasn't in it. I had to be honest with myself about what really motivates me. It isn't my health, it isn't even the number on the scale (though it helps motivate a little). Peer pressure didn't even do it. For me it was showing up someone who drives me crazy. I knew I was better than her and this was a great way to prove it. I gave into my pride and made it work for me. I know, it makes me a mean and horrible person, but it worked!! If greed, selfishness, vanity, or pride motivates you, then I say channel that negative attribute and make something positive out of it. Lose weight, get healthy. Funny enough, that person doesn't bug me so much anymore.....
I didn't lose a thing when my son was born (10lbs, which came right back on) and then I only lost 15 lbs with my daughter, which put me 10lbs above my post-son weight. When they tell you breastfeeding helps you lose weight, don't count on it, they're not referring to everyone. So how did I lose it? You're not going to like this. I cut out sugar and most fats and execised my butt off. It was miserable, but worth it.
I started in January by fixing my diet. No cookies. No soda. Lots of veggies, lean meats and only wheat breads. At least 80 oz of water/day and no eating after 7pm. In February I added running. I hate running so much. But it was all I knew to do in the winter. I also joined an indoor soccer league so I could have some nights off from running around my block (boring!). I lost 20 lbs in 3 months doing this. Then I got an injury and fell off the wagon. The best part? I didn't gain a pound. Because I lost the weight the right way, my metabolism was stable. I may have gained a pound one week, but then I'd just cut something out the next week and it was gone. I took a few months off then spent July and August losing the last 10. I know it's tempting to try something to take the weight off quickly, but this way is so much better! I like being able to take time off and just maintain. Maintaining also involves walking 2 miles 4 days a week so I can eat ice cream :)
I was finally able to fit into my favorite pants I haven't worn since before I became a mom! You guys, it felt awesome zipping those up, I can't even tell you! I'm going to take another break, but plan to lose 15 more next year. I know I'll never be a size 6 again, like in highschool, but I'm gonna shoot for an 8. I really think I can do that. I just need to find someone else who bugs me that I want to show up ;-)Labels: Food, Health, Life