In the last week or so, I've seen a recurring theme on lots of other people's weight-loss blogs. They've lost quite a bit of weight and are starting to look and feel fantastic. Sometimes that makes it hard to keep going, because you feel so much better than when you started, and forget how far you've still got to go according to the goals you set yourself when you started out.
Well, here's my 10 cents worth on the subject.
I have lost over 24kg in 17 weeks. I'm fitter, I feel healthier, I've dropped a couple of clothes sizes, I get lots of lovely compliments from my family, friends and workmates. I can feel myself starting to think 'Wow, you've done so well, you can just relax now'.
But, let's run a quick reality check over that thought.
I weigh over 108kg.
I need to lose another 32kg to get to WW goal.
I'm fitter, but I still can't jog over 150m, and the hill to our house still makes me puff.
I wear size 20 clothes.
The compliments are from people who already know me and can see my progress.
So, instead, let's think about how a stranger would see me. Now, you need to understand that what people think doesn't matter (much) to me. But a stranger has a completely unbiased view, because they've never met me before.
So, if someone had just met me for the first time, how would they describe me?
Would they say 'I met this woman today, who was really friendly and bubbly. I'm looking forward to getting to know her'.
Or would they say 'I met this woman today, who was really big, but seems like a nice person'.
I want to get to the stage where the main part of someone's first impression doesn't have anything to do with my size.
Because when they don't notice, then I won't be noticing any more either.
13 comments:
Sue, I'm amazed by your determination and your go-get-'em attitude, it is great to see. You are realistic and its very refreshing.
You have done amazingly well so far, and its important not to lose sight of that (which you haven't). But just imagine how much BETTER again you'll feel as you get nearer and nearer to your goal :-) Keep it up, and hope you've enjoyed 'your' time this weekend.
What a great post. Something that I too have been thinking about but you put it so succinctly. I will definitely keep the strangers perspective in mind the next time one of my friends 'compliments' me on my loss.
And just wanted to say you have done an absolutely marvellous job in the last 17 weeks. It is great to 'meet' people who are just getting on with it and showing that it can be done. In all circumstances.
Hope you have a brilliant rest of the weekend :)
That post got me thinking - I'm sure that I would go along with the first description if meeting up with someone for the first time. I feel to me that someone's personality is more important than their size! Although I don't take on board people's weight I feel that people do when they see me!
You are doing so well and although your reality check pointed out how you are now, you have to remember that you are getting healthier and fitter week by week!
Wow, you've lost so much in such a short time! That's great work. I'm really glad that you've got things in perspective though - it will make you less likely to "fall off the wagon" so to speak. Good luck in reaching your halfway goal - I'm sure you'll make it.
Oh, BTW, you will still notice, because you will notice how fabulous you feel. Sound like you're getting some of that already!
I agree with you. You should be meeting someone and have them thing firstly that they want to know you because of you and not because of your size. I haven't ever thought of it that way and it is interesting. I wonder if I judge people because they are skinny. I did it today at the gym and thought oh that skinny blonde has it all and probably doesn't have the personality to go with it but I was pleasantly suprised with how nice and friendly and talkative she was... so stereo types have got to go out of my vocabulary that is for sure. Thanks for making me see...
Chubbymum
I wish I could write as eloquently as you Sue. What a great post and it's something I often think about but never thought to put in words. You are doing so well and think you're ace!
You have had such an amazing loss in that time. You are an inspiration. That was a great post and shows your true determination to get to your goal.
That is so honest and says it all so well. With your perspective no wonder you are doing so well.
Whoa, its funny how I have been thinking along the same lines lately!! to some1 who has never met, i definitely don't look "slim".
24kgs is amazing tho sue!
Hey Sue, just followed the comment you left on my site to your blog and have been having a bit of a read. Well done on your tremendous success.
I agree with you, that you have to keep things in perspective, but please continue to enjoy the compliments - the people giving them really care and support you.
Mostly though, the personal journey - the fears you overcome, and the things you learn about yourself will continue to intrigue you along the way.
All the best and keep up the good work - I'll be spying on you!
24 kg in 17 weeks is an amazing loss - the next 32 will be gone before you know it:)
Either way they would add in something about your eyes, even in a small photo they're lovely!
Post a Comment