I did it!

Six months ago I set a goal for myself to lose 25kg (~55lbs). At the time I weighed 110kg (~240lbs), and had been fat my entire life. I had tried losing weight before, but without success. I had gone to the gym, worked out regularly and eaten healthy food, but nothing seemed to work.

After a long period of not doing any of those things, I suddenly woke up one morning and decided that I didn't want to be fat anymore. I would be turning thirty in a year, and felt that it was now or never on the weight loss. I made up a simple list of "eat" and "don't eat" foods, and kept to this very well for about two weeks before realizing that I needed to quantify and measure my progress. I also decided at that time that calorie counting would be a good idea, too, and stumbled on MFP in a Google search.

Now, after six months of watching my calories, as well as fat and protein intake, and working out regularly (I've got one and a half weeks to go on P90X), I have finally reached my goal. Words cannot describe the feeling I had this morning when I stepped on the scale and it finally registered a number less than 85kg (~187lbs). Many of you, I'm sure, know just how proud I am of myself for reaching my goal, and for those who don't, keep at, and you will soon enough.

Aside from the calorie counting, I also found a lot of encouragement and advice on this website, particularly from larsfromars and ddavies in the P90X forum. I'm sure I wouldn't have lost the weight so fast without them.

I'm still a tad overweight, but it's only a matter of time before the extra weight that is left is lost. I stopped thinking I was on a diet months ago, and now just think of it as my new, healthy lifestyle. I have no intention of going back to eating fat- and calorie-laden food, or stopping my exercise routine. It may change, but I like the new me far more than the old me.

Speaking of the new me, that includes personality changes as well. Since I started dieting I've become a much happier, more positive and more optimistic person. I no longer think "I can't do that", but rather "I presently struggle with". It started with fitness routines, but has since expanded into every corner of my life. Dieting and getting fit might be the best decision I've ever made.

I plan to hang around MFP for several reasons, so if you're looking for an online workout buddy, or just someone to give you advice or encouragement, add me. I'd love to help others here reach their goals, too.