How to stay motivated when progress is slow?

Aprilfoolbride

I’m struggling with staying motivated. Part of it could be the winter blues—it gets dark at 4pm. I’m doing well in many ways: tracking, being prepared, having backups, working out 5+ days a week, cooking, no treats at home, etc. Actually I made a list of all the healthy habits I have implemented and it is long!

My weight loss is slow and steady so change is only noticeable over a period of time. I’ve lost a fair amount of weight (35lbs of baby weight and nearly 15 more) over the past 2.5 years and I’m still heavy. It’s discouraging to lose almost 50lbs and still be fat. I have another 36lbs to lose. I know I didn't put it on fast and that the slower it comes off, the more likely it is to stay off. But still…

The BIG reason I want to lose weight and be healthy is because being a healthy mom is what I really want. Yet it’s hard to say no to sweets & other treats, especially when I feel I deserve them. (In general I avoid added sugars.) Of course I want to be an active mom > I want walnut brownies though it’s hard to always make that call.

How to stay focused on goal? What can I do to keep my eyes on the prize?

47Jacqueline

You're more than half way! I bet it shows more than you know. It took me about a year after I reached goal to realize I was really a size 8 even though people had been telling me I looked like I had lost weight long before that.

While you're losing weight, the best thing I've found is to find something else to concentrate on than your weight. For me it was working out at the gym. I tried a bunch of things - strength training, cardio on machines, various classes and I found that I loved the social aspect of classes. I don't like working out alone. I go to classes about 5 days a week and work out with a trainer once a week and I have fun! Plus, I have seen my body get stronger and leaner.

Lots of luck!!!!

Lizzy622

I'm losing a bit slower but about 40 pounds in 3 years. I sometimes look back to where I was and realize I don't want to be back there. I do have an occasional brownie or candy. I just count it into my calories for the day. I am enjoying a much more active life and that is what keeps me on track. It is also a habit and way of life. Things feel off if I do anything different. It has been bitterly cold and I haven't been able to exercise the same way as before and it just feels wrong.