"I lost over 60 lbs. over the last 10 years. It was a very slow and healthy process including adding healthy lifestyle changes. I have kept it all off for the last 4 years. This year I have gained 15 lbs. It is more than I have put on at one time since I lost the weight. What is working for me right now is to get very clear on what has worked for me in the past, not dwell on the negatives, put one foot in front of the other and keep moving. Here are some of the things that worked for me in the past. Hopefully they will be helpful to others as well:
- The same way you 'pay yourself first' when saving money, put yourself first.
- Keep the exercise promises you make, regardless of what other tempting offers come your way (or you're tired or have to clean or make phone calls).
- Remember it is the best thing you can do and you never regret having gone to the gym. I have never been sorry I went, only that I didn't go.
- Plan meals and be excited about what you are planning.
- Plan treats for yourself. If you love sweets, plan how to have them in moderation (I have always found a way to have a bit of chocolate - Milky way lite, or 1 chocolate covered cherry for dessert, or 1 cup of Count Chocula cereal, or diet chocolate soda or 1 tootsie pop).
- Go out w/ people. I am always tempted to hibernate when I am losing but if I go out, I really plan what I will eat and drink. Light beer is great. So are salads w/ balsamic vinegar.
- Plan exercise with friends. I have invited friends to spin class or out hiking with me. It feels great and healthy rather than getting coffee or going to a bar or the movies.
- Get moving! A sphere in motion stays in motion!
- Wear clothes that fit you now and feel comfortable. If you are squeezing into your old things to punish yourself, you will be sad all the time.
- Remember your beauty all the time. What I am about to say is harsh but it's true: If you were to, God forbid, be hit by a bus today and killed, you would be the weight you are and the way you look. It would not change. How much of a shame would it be if you left this planet planning to be someone you aren't? Love who you are now. The change you are making is because you love yourself and deserve the best. Not because you are a bad person and have to change to be loved.
- Get as much sleep as you need every night. If you need 8 hours to function, get 8. If you need 7, get 7.
- Drink water.
- Keep a journal about your feelings. Be aware of your sad moments and feel them. Don't push them down. Ask yourself what feels bad. Is there someone you need to talk with to improve a specific situation? Humans are not necessarily happy every moment of the day. It's ok to be sad sometimes. And to say you feel that way.
- Reward yourself for your success. It's ok to use food as a reward once in a while. Plan for it. You can also use a new item of clothing, I like a trip to a book store for open-ended browsing.
- Don't beat yourself up for over-eating. Accept it and move on."
