Losing weight and keeping it off can often feel like an elusive dream, especially past menopause. Yet, it doesn’t have to be. If you’re struggling with weight loss and the myriad of advice that doesn’t seem to stick, this blog is for you. I’m Paula B, and in today’s post, I’ll be diving into five unexpected things I let go of, reshaping not just my body but my entire approach to weight management in my 50s. These aren’t your typical sacrifices like giving up your favorite desserts or sticking to impossible exercise routines. Instead, we’ll explore the mental shifts that made all the difference. Join me as I share the mindset changes that helped me not only reach but maintain my goal weight, forever changing how I view health and wellness. Ready to make your own transformation? Let’s delve into the surprising things you can give up for lasting weight loss success.
1. Feeling Sorry for Myself
For years, I nurtured a narrative of self-pity, believing I was destined to never reach my goals. The cycle of nearly reaching my target weight, then slipping back into old habits, was fuelled by a deep-rooted feeling of inadequacy. Realizing that self-pity was merely a mental barrier allowed me to take responsibility for my journey. The transformation began when I embraced the belief that I am worthy of my goals. By adopting a mindset of self-compassion and empowerment, I created space for success and joy in my weight loss journey.
2. Blaming Others
Blame became a crutch, an easy way to justify not taking full control of my choices. When things didn’t go as planned, I would attribute it to external factors or people who seemingly influenced my decisions. Yet, the truth was, I had the power to choose what went on my plate, how I moved my body, and ultimately, how I perceived my circumstances. Disowning the blame and accepting full accountability transformed my approach to weight loss. I recognized that while I couldn’t control every situation, I could control my responses and decisions every step of the way.
3. Criticizing My Body
The mirror used to be my fiercest adversary. Every glance was an opportunity to criticize some part of my body. This constant negativity not only influenced my self-esteem but also my motivation to pursue healthier habits. What shifted this narrative was the realization that my body is my ally, not my enemy. By learning to appreciate and love my body for what it is and what it can do, I created a positive foundation for genuine health improvements. Accepting my imperfections and celebrating my strengths turned the weight loss journey into a loving practice of self-care.
4. Thinking I Couldn’t Figure It Out
Midlife changes, particularly menopause, often bring about confusion due to the myriad of contradicting advice available. I too felt bewildered, chasing every new diet trend without success. The turning point was understanding that my body’s changes weren’t a problem to solve but a reality to understand. By applying a methodical approach akin to the scientific method, I began observing my body’s unique responses to different lifestyles and tweaking my habits accordingly. This shift towards curiosity and patience enabled me to see the bigger picture and find a sustainable routine that worked for me.
5. The Idea of Losing Weight Ever Again
The identity of a perpetual dieter was a comfort zone, albeit an unsatisfying one. Letting go of the mindset that I was always in need of losing weight required redefining who I was. This change was profound and required looking beyond the scale. I embraced an identity focused on wellness and lifelong health rather than numbers. It wasn’t just about reaching a certain weight but becoming a person who nourishes their body and mind with intention. The freedom from dieting norms and restrictions was liberating, paving the way for permanent lifestyle changes.
In conclusion, the journey to losing weight for the last time isn’t about what you physically give up, but what you mentally release. These five shifts are not easy; they take introspection and practice. However, they hold the power to transform your relationship with food, body, and self, allowing you to not only lose weight but also maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle permanently.
If you’re ready to embark on this transformative path, remember that support and community are essential. Consider joining groups like the Get Your Goal membership, where you can find guidance and camaraderie from those on the same journey. It’s time to redefine weight loss by focusing on mental freedom and well-being, making space for a healthier, happier you.
