Body Image

I started trying to lose weight December 2012. I started my journey at 287 pounds. As of today, I've lost 36 pounds. My mother says she sees it, my fiance says he sees it, but I just don't.

The tape measure isn't moving. I haven't lost any sizes in pants or anything like that. It isn't keeping me from pushing forward, but it IS obnoxious.

Is this normal? Should I be seeing a difference? Any tips on helping improve my own self image?

Replies

  • michellekicks
    michellekicks Posts: 3,624 Member
    Just keep going. You're doing great! Trust those who love you... they have no reason to lie to you. Keep pushing forward. You're doing it! :drinker:
  • KeRAWRi
    KeRAWRi Posts: 79 Member
    Maybe try taking a before and after picture. Sometimes that helps. :)
  • MSam1205
    MSam1205 Posts: 439 Member
    You will see hundreds of posts with comments similar to yours...... Many of us can't see the changes in the mirror or clothes that others see. We sometimes have these foggy lens on when it come to our own body changes........ And while you say you haven't lost pant sizes, I'll bet your pants fit better or are looser than before. Every body shape loses differently. At 55 lbs I've gone from a really tight 24 pants to a very comfortable 18. but it didnt' start to happen until about 35-40 lbs into the journey. I'm glad you're not letting this get to you, so keep on doing what you're doing and it will happen!
  • I was so upset when I didn't drop a pants size at 20 lbs down. However, I finally had to be honest with myself and admit that I had stretched my then current size to the limit. Just keep pushing, it will show and you'll be so tickled!

    It's not uncommon for me now to see absolutely no movement on my scale. I have 12 lbs to go, but my clothes are fitting better every day regardless of that stupid scale!
  • wikitbikit
    wikitbikit Posts: 518 Member
    The best thing I ever heard on this topic: Imagine a roll of paper towel. You can use half of it before you even notice that any of it is missing, right? But then down toward the end of the roll, you can almost count every sheet coming off. This is similar to what it's like losing fat from our hidden lean bodies. :)
  • Brad805
    Brad805 Posts: 289 Member
    If you have had a long term struggle with weight there are some books that might help. I am not a self loving dingbat, but my coach suggested a few and they really can help. I have been down this road before, and at the end I really was a thin guy with a fat mans brain. My coach helped me change my mindset, and is has made a huge difference for me.
  • MG_Fit
    MG_Fit Posts: 1,143 Member
    I'm the same way. We are usually our own worst critic. But when people that see us constantly notice a change, we're doing something right. Keep up the good work! I imagine you'll be like me one day and just put on some clothes or look at your self and say, "man, it's paying off". Not that I'm there yet, but I can start to notice.
  • tinak33
    tinak33 Posts: 9,883 Member
    hahaha
    I dropped 35-40 lbs, and went from a super tight 12 to a loose and comfortable size 12.

    I feel your pain......

    I actually decided that I need to get more active if I want to FINALLY get into those size 10s!

    I took measurements this weekend and started the 30 Day Shred. I'm anxious to see what the results will be. :happy:

    ETA: Other people noticed the weight loss... But because my pants size barely budged, I didn't. Use different forms of measurement than just pants size.
  • ladybuggprincess99
    ladybuggprincess99 Posts: 142 Member
    The best thing I ever heard on this topic: Imagine a roll of paper towel. You can use half of it before you even notice that any of it is missing, right? But then down toward the end of the roll, you can almost count every sheet coming off. This is similar to what it's like losing fat from our hidden lean bodies. :)

    That's a great explanation! I plan to keep going until I get down to those last few sheets!