How I Lost/Maintained My Weight

Now that I’ve lost 1828 30+ pounds, people are asking me, HOW did you do this? It’s still very much a work in progress, but here’s what I think has made the difference for me since January 17th, 2009.

• I’m trying to be mindful about everything I put in my mouth: ie, I need to be physically hungry before I eat, I need to be eating something that I want (ie something I anticipate being delicious and satisfying) AND I need to eat something that I will not later regret.
• I am trying to eat more slowly, to put down my fork between bites (this is really, really hard for me!) and to check in with myself OFTEN about how full I am. When I feel full (ie, no longer hungry) I try to stop. Or maybe just take one more bite.  If  I eat beyond that full-point, no matter what I’m eating, I end up in that regetful place.
• I am attempting to actively sweat for 45-90 minutes, at least four days a week. I used to take a leisurely paced walk and call that “exercise.” That might be enough for me to maintain my weight, but it isn’t enough for me to lose. Even better if I can use some sort of machine that will count my calories. I like to get up to 500-600 calories per workout.
• I’m blogging and writing and trying to be as honest as I can. Both my dieting and my eating in the past have tended to be very private and on the sneaky side. Which is how I ended up with prediabetes and weighing the same as my highest pregnancy weight. So I’m trying to be very honest, especially with myself.
• I’m now on the staff of Weight Watchers, and I lead weekly meetings. This organization has changed my life. I love this program.  I’m also weighing certain portions, just out of curiousity because it seems that portion control has been a real Achilles heel of mine.
• I’m reading, reading, reading, lots of books, articles, blogs and Tweets about health, fitness, food and losing weight. Every day I learn a new recipe, tidbit, or inspirational thought. I feel like being in community around this is really, really helping me.
• I completed the Couch to 5K running program and also have several real-life buddies who are doing this with me.  It’s awesome. I also registered  for completed a real 5k race in May, for more accountability. And another one on May 30th! Chocolate and champagne, mm!
• I’ve run 3 5k races, a 10k, and a half-marathon is in the works for December 5, 2010.
• I am constantly seeking ways to keep myself accountable. I feel like that Verizon commercial with the guy that is surrounded by people in the Network.
• I have decided that I am open to any new experiences, people, ideas etc that can help me be healthy and fit. Like running. I used to be so terrified of running it wasn’t even funny. But now here I am.  And I LOVE CHALLENGES!
• I remind myself of WHY I want to lose weight, many many times a day. Every time I put food in my mouth, I think of my reasons. I check in. They are still important to me.
• I will keep adding to this list!!!