Two Years and Counting: Two Takeaways from My Journey So Far

TL;DR:

• Start NOW. Do not wait to start on that “perfect” date.
• This is a journey, NOT a race.

Link to weight charts.

I am an early to mid-twenties female.

• Height: 5'4", 163 cm.
• Start weight: 163 lbs., 73.93 kg.
• Highest recorded weight: 165 lbs., 74.84 kg.
• Current weight: 124 lbs., 56.24 kg.
• Goal weight: 108 lbs., 48.98 kg.

On December 21, 2018, exactly two years ago today, I started again for the nth time. Like many of you, I was tired. Tired of being fat. Tired of not liking what I saw in the mirror. And most importantly, tired of being at risk for various medical issues such as diabetes and high cholesterol. I knew I needed to change – not eleven days later on New Year’s but NOW. Thus began my two year (and counting!) journey full of ups and downs.

Throughout this time, the most important lesson I learned is that this is a journey, not a race. Instead of rushing to the finish line by starving oneself, it is healthier (both mentally and physically) to make gradual changes. You will be much happier and less stressed doing so.

Other things I have learned:

• Weight fluctuates. It is okay to gain weight.
• Everyone’s journey is different. What works for someone else may not work for you.
• Do not punish yourself. Roughly two months ago, I consumed tortilla chips with hummus and tzatziki dip, three slices of pizza, two pieces of stuffed cheesy bread, one lemon bar, one slice of apple pie, and two glasses of milk in one sitting. This meal was perhaps the most I have eaten in one day since late May/early June 2020, and I felt absolutely terrible and had no appetite. I gained 2.2 lbs. (~1 kg.) that day, but I have lost 11.2 lbs. (5.08 kg.) since.
• Adapt to changes. Pre-pandemic, I would swim, play basketball, and jump rope. But I now stretch instead.

Things that have worked for me:

• Weighing myself everyday.
• Cooking my own meals most of the time.
• Portioning takeout orders to last two to three meals each.
• Ensuring vegetables make up the majority of my lunches and/or dinners.
• Snacking on fruits such as bananas and clementines.
• No food restrictions. I eat bread, rice, and noodles most days.
• Allowing myself to enjoy big holiday meals on Chinese New Year, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

I hope this helps someone. Comment below or feel free to message me with your questions, etc. I may not respond right away, but I will respond. And if you have read this far, thank you.

submitted by /u/160lbs
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source https://www.reddit.com/r/loseit/comments/khys7w/two_years_and_counting_two_takeaways_from_my/