My 2016 Resolution - ACHIEVED

RespectTheKitty
RespectTheKitty Posts: 1,667 Member
edited November 14 in Success Stories
In January of 2016, I made a decision that I wanted to lose weight once and for all. I was 255 pounds (height is 5'6") and I was uncomfortable all the time. I was tired of having back pain from the excess weight as well. And I was simply fed up with disliking the way I looked. So I made a resolution to start taking better care of myself so that I could lose some weight.

I started by joining the gym at the office. I went on my lunch breaks, doing mostly cardio exercise. I met with one of the trainers at the gym for an assessment, and she recommended that I start using MFP. So I downloaded it and started following the calorie goal it gave me. It was really hard at first to stay within my calorie goal; I was used to eating a lot more. But after a few weeks it became a little easier to manage. And when I saw the first few pounds drop off, it motivated me to keep doing it.

I focused primarily on exercise, but watching my calorie intake during the day was also very important. As time went on, my back got stronger and I was able to start running. I used a Couch to 5k program to build up to running 5k, or 3.1 miles. After that, I started adding on more miles and now I run four to six miles at least four times a week. I developed a love for running, which is a huge help in maintaining my weight loss.

I've lost 82 pounds over the last year. If I can do it, anyone can. Here are a few tips I used to stick to my weight loss resolution:

1. Focus on smaller goals, not the big picture. By taking it five pounds at a time, it was a lot easier to stay motivated.

2. Similarly, celebrate the small victories. When you meet your smaller goals, do something to celebrate. Get your hair or nails done, buy some new workout clothes, or do something else nice for yourself that doesn't involve food.

3. Find something you love to do for exercise. I love running, and I have no plans to give it up. Maybe your favorite thing to do is swim, play basketball or something else. Find a way to make exercise enjoyable, and it won't feel like work.

4. Acknowledge that there will be an occasional slip-up. It's impossible to stick to a diet 24/7. There will be times when you want to indulge. Plan for it, and work it into your calories for the day. That way you won't feel deprived.

5. Most of all, believe in yourself! By taking better care of your health, you are creating a better you!

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Replies

  • Congratulations! Way to go!
  • klkarlen
    klkarlen Posts: 4,366 Member
    Fantastic work! Happy New Year!
  • Marvie13
    Marvie13 Posts: 16 Member
    congratulations!! way to stick to it and achieve your goal!
  • JoRolleNola
    JoRolleNola Posts: 152 Member
    I look great. Congrats!
  • daworley
    daworley Posts: 238 Member
    Congratulations! You look terrific! And thanks for the encouragement - I honestly feel more encouraged by your words "believe in yourself". Thank you and Happy New Year!
  • pjtmay
    pjtmay Posts: 9 Member
    Wow! Awesome Job!!! Way to stay motivated
  • Caper1972
    Caper1972 Posts: 25 Member
    Great job and thank you for your tips, I will keep them in mind and hopefully have the succcess you have had. So far I don't love running, but someday I hope to.
  • birdtobe
    birdtobe Posts: 105 Member
    CONGRATS! You look amazing!
  • lorrpb
    lorrpb Posts: 11,463 Member
    Way to go! Have a great 2017!!
  • ado4me
    ado4me Posts: 5 Member
    That is fantastic! Congratulations!
  • SheilaCali
    SheilaCali Posts: 737 Member
    Awesome inspiration for me, thanks!
  • elisa123gal
    elisa123gal Posts: 4,333 Member
    Thank you for the post and your tips. You look amazing and well done!
  • 40ishloser12
    40ishloser12 Posts: 16 Member
    Congrats you look great
  • b3achy
    b3achy Posts: 2,128 Member
    Congrats on the newer healthier you!! Congrats for sticking to your 2016 resolution! That's amazing!

    I love your 5 points, and wholeheartedly agree!! That's the only way I've been able to lose my weight too. You kept them very succinct and pertinent.

    So, any 2017 resolutions you are willing to share?!
  • leathaJFS
    leathaJFS Posts: 4 Member
    I'm so proud of you. You were beautiful then and you're beautiful now.
  • lemonaid7
    lemonaid7 Posts: 156 Member
    Inspirational, you look fantastic!
  • ritalvsfer
    ritalvsfer Posts: 27 Member
    You look fantastic! Thanks for the tips!
  • MyLovesMyLife
    MyLovesMyLife Posts: 424 Member
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    love this! you did awesome!
  • cokris
    cokris Posts: 4 Member
    Great job! Thanks for posting the helpful hints! :)
  • woznube7
    woznube7 Posts: 537 Member
    Thank you for sharing your tips! Beautiful!
  • RespectTheKitty
    RespectTheKitty Posts: 1,667 Member
    b3achy wrote: »
    Congrats on the newer healthier you!! Congrats for sticking to your 2016 resolution! That's amazing!

    I love your 5 points, and wholeheartedly agree!! That's the only way I've been able to lose my weight too. You kept them very succinct and pertinent.

    So, any 2017 resolutions you are willing to share?!

    My goals for 2017 are:

    1. Run/walk 1,000 total miles
    2. Eat more fruits and veggies

    That's about it. Oh, and make sure to maintain the weight loss!
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