In the past, I refrained from using mirrors. Not because I hated my appearance but because I lost touch with who I was. The clothes that had previously been comfortable were tight, and simple tasks like climbing a few stairs caused me to feel panty. I reassured myself it was merely a phase, that I’d “return to form soon. ” But soon never arrived.

     My battle with weight wasn’t solely about the numbers on the scale. It was the emotional burden—feeling uneasy at social events, avoiding photographs, and crafting excuses to elude pastimes I had once enjoyed. I convinced myself all was well, but inside, I understood change was necessary.
There was nothing exaggerated that triggered it. No physician’s advice or critical incident—just me, sitting by myself, feeling exhausted in a way that rest could not remedy. On that day, I resolved that if I desired to feel better, I needed to begin improving. And thus, the journey commenced.

     Initially, I believed weight management revolved around rigid diets and punishing exercise routines. I would attempt a new regimen, overexert myself, and then give up in frustration when immediate results eluded me. It took time for me to understand that weight management isn’t a swift solution—it’s a lifelong dedication to equilibrium.

     I began with small steps. Rather than eliminating all my beloved foods, I concentrated on portion sizes and making healthier substitutions. I increased my walking, consumed more water, and noticed how various foods influenced my feelings. Gradually, I developed habits that felt less like a chore and more like a means of self-care.

      So, where do you even begin? I wish someone had informed me that the initial step wasn’t about counting calories or exercising six days a week. It was about making small, realistic adjustments. Rather than attempting to change my life overnight, I began with minor changes—drinking more water, replacing soda with tea, and making a conscious effort to walk a bit more every day. It wasn’t about achieving perfection, just making progress.

     One of the most beneficial things I did was seek support. I previously thought I had to do everything by myself, but having someone to check in with—be it a friend, a trainer, or even an online community—made a significant impact. When my motivation dipped, those individuals reminded me of my reasons for starting. If you’re on this journey, don’t hesitate to rely on others.

        And here’s something I wish I had understood sooner: the scale isn’t the most reliable indicator of success. I used to allow a number to determine my mood for the entire day. However, real progress? It’s about feeling more energized, having better sleep, and noticing that your clothes fit a bit looser. It’s centered on how you feel, not solely on what you weigh.

    Certainly, there were occasions when I hesitated—days I overindulged, missed workouts, or simply felt like giving up. But I had to understand that a single bad day doesn’t ruin everything. I didn’t fail just because I enjoyed cake at a celebration. The essential aspect was always returning to my path without feeling guilty.

Pictures; courtesy of Pexels.