This year has been a profound learning experience. I uncovered how much importance I had unintentionally placed on my body image over the years. This realization led to a transformative journey of self-discovery, health, and confidence.

My Wake-Up Call

During my routine physical, my doctor pointed out that my weight—167 lbs—was considered overweight for my 5’5.5″ height. At first, I felt overwhelmed. Yet, my doctor encouraged me to meet with a health educator to start working on my weight loss goals.

After my first assignment with the health educator, I dropped to 164 lbs. Encouraged by this progress, I set a new goal to lose 4 more pounds by my next visit. By July 30th, just six weeks later, I weighed 153.6 lbs. This achievement gave me more than just a number on the scale—it gave me the motivation to keep pushing ahead.

My ultimate goal? To return to my pre-weight-gain self at 140 lbs., the weight I maintained two years ago.

Understanding My Weight Gain

How It All Began

After graduating from college, I moved in with my significant other. I wanted to embrace self-love and stop obsessing over my shape, size, or weight. To reinforce this mindset, I avoided purchasing a full-length mirror. But, this backfired. Without realizing it, I adopted unhealthy habits that caused me to gain 28 lbs.

Even though I went to the gym five days a week, I couldn’t outrun poor eating habits. Late-night takeout and junk food became the norm. Slowly, I began feeling tired all the time, and my energy levels plummeted. Running, walking long distances, and even exercising became challenging.

Emotional Impact

This physical change also affected my confidence. I started to fear that my body was working against me. It wasn’t just about how I looked—it was about the limitations my body now placed on my daily life.

My Weight-Loss Journey: How I Did It

1. Identifying Problematic Habits

During my first session with the health educator, we examined my daily routine. As a result, I discovered habits that were holding me back:

• Eating late at night: I often had dinner around 10 or 11 p.m. and went straight to bed afterward.
• Skipping cardio: I avoided cardio out of fear of losing too much weight.
• Ordering takeout: I relied heavily on convenience foods instead of preparing meals.

2. Making Practical Changes

We created a practical plan to tackle these habits:

• Adjusting meal times: I started eating dinner earlier—around 7 or 8 p.m.—and waited two hours before going to bed.
• Drinking water before meals: Drinking water helped me recognize true hunger and reduced overeating.
• Walking instead of intense cardio: I eased into cardio by walking home from work three times a week. I tracked my steps with a Fitbit.

In just two weeks, these small adjustments helped me lose 4 lbs. This success motivated me to continue making positive changes.

3. Experimenting With Diets

To manage cravings and reduce my appetite, I tried a few different approaches:

• Apple cider vinegar (ACV) drinks: I drank ACV for a few days to kick-start my focus on appetite control.
• Intermittent fasting: I began eating only when I felt genuinely hungry, treating meals like hydration.

For snacks, I replaced junk food with roasted peanuts, crackers, or fresh produce like carrots. My mornings started with coffee, which delayed my breakfast and helped me naturally reduce my calorie intake..

4. Staying Motivated With Technology and Community

Walking became a cornerstone of my exercise routine. I joined Fitbit challenges with friends, which added a competitive and fun element to my progress. Later, I added MyFitnessPal to track meals and connect with supportive communities, which helped me stay accountable and inspired.

Where I Am Now

Through this journey, I’ve learned that health isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s about finding balance and making sustainable changes. I’ve shifted toward a plant-based diet, eliminating seafood, and reducing dairy. These small steps have helped me align my eating habits with my long-term goals.

Most importantly, I’ve developed a deeper understanding of the challenges people face with weight and body image. It’s not easy when your body feels like it’s working against you. But patience, self-compassion, and a strong support system can make all the difference.

My Advice to You

???? Be patient: Weight loss isn’t linear—it fluctuates. Celebrate the small wins along the way.
???? Find your community: Join groups like Fitbit or MyFitnessPal to stay motivated and inspired.
???? Set realistic goals: Focus on your own journey instead of comparing yourself to others.

The most important thing? Be kind to yourself. Your best self is within reach—one small step at a time.

???? Ready to Start Your Own Journey?

Your path to health and confidence starts now! Whether you’re looking to lose weight or want to feel stronger in your own skin, remember this. Small, consistent changes lead to big results.

???? Join a Community: Share your journey and connect with others on platforms like Fitbit or MyFitnessPal.
???? Take the First Step: Pick one habit to focus on today—meal timing, walking, or hydration—and build from there.
???? Believe in Yourself: Progress takes time, but every effort gets you closer to your goal.

? You’ve got this! Start today and discover the best version of yourself.