41 pounds lost *with pics*

Hey all, I had a MFP account for ages but have not diligently used it until Jan 5th 2013. The forum has truly inspired me and now that im succesful in helping my body feel better, I thought of sharing my progress.

I was 196 pounds at my heaviest, 5 Jan 2013, and I now weigh 154 pounds. I still have another 22 pounds to lose before I reach my goal weight.

Today, I sit here and i find it so impossible to believe that I've come this far. I was never like this. I used to be fit, healthy, in tracks, played rugby and stuff but the past two years have been very nasty. Had bad break-ups, a bad job, my graduation, all these just seemed to take a toll on my health.

Being big, didnt help at all. I couldnt fit in clothes that i owned and liked. I used to get so dissapointed each time I went into the fitting rooms. People (even my folks) used to mock me. I used to behave like a frumpy old cow, venting my weight frustrations on everyone around me. I used to blame every other person for my weight gain but myself.

But when things got really bad, I met my current boyfriend who accepted me for who i was, even though I was wayyyy bigger than him. He motivated me to see the brighter side of life. He thought me how to appreciate the life I have. He said one thing to me, "If my weight really bothers me, change it! And if you don't want to change it, don't complain about it. If you want to lose weight, do it for yourself, not for others".

My exercise regime is simple, JUST GIVE EVERY WORKOUT YOUR BEST! Ive never left the gym dissappointed. I work out 5-6 times a week (after my work). I didnt skip workout no matter what, even if it was my godchilds baptism, my dad's birthday, etc. I still worked-out and scheduled my life around my workouts and not the other way round. I started with just brisk-walking and now I run 3.2km. I know, I avoid lifting, although I try doing it occassionaly but I dont believe in doing something you dont like to. Workouts are just 40%, the other 60% I say is your diet. I controlled my portions, cut down on unhealthy food, tried to keep my diet as clean as possible. Yes, i did have some cheat days when i really gave into temptation. Ive also pigged out on somedays, but it doesnt matter as long as you keep trying.

I just want everyone to know that nothing is impossible and there is no limit to what you can achieve.