My advice to those just starting

Let me start by giving you a little bit of my background. I am 46, and have been on this journey for over 2 yrs. My start weight was 250 lbs. My current weight is 174 lbs. It is a long and sometimes hard process, but it can be as easy as you make it. I eat what I want 95% of the time with moderation. I rarely exercise except for walking and the occasional kickboxing class with my sister in law when I'm visiting NY. I just, in the past 2 months have started weighing my food but I do not track every little thing that goes in my mouth. I refuse to be a slave to food.

My first bit of advice is,

1. Read the forums. There is a wealth of information in the forums. The people on here speak from experience. Keep in mind however, that everybody is different. What works for one may not work for you. Which leads into my next bit of advice.

2. Find what works for you. Do not be afraid to experiment with different things, whether it's different food or exercise or calorie levels. Just give it time before you decide it's not working for you.

3. Do not be afraid to ask for help. There are some amazing people on here more than willing to offer advice and help. As previously stated, they speak from experience.

4. Do not let your feelings get hurt if someone tells you something you may not want to hear. Yes, there can be some rude people on here but most of the time they mean well. Again they speak from experience and when they say something it is out of concern for your well being. Especially if what you are saying resembles behaviors that they have already lived through and dealt with.

5. Have faith in yourself. You CAN do this with a little work and determination.

In closing I would just like to say I wish you luck on your new life.