has_(CENSORED)> Like you, I’ve struggled with weight problems, but in the reverse. I’ve always been a skinny scrawny girl who could never seem to put on weight despite many, and I mean
many, repeated attempts. But I got to the weight that I am now not only from working out regularly at the gym but also changing my lifestyle, eating habits and way of approaching problems. So I can relate to how you feel.
Perhaps I can offer some practical advice here:
(1) List down all the things you are unhappy with in your life. Then separate them into (i) what you can change and (ii) what you cannot. Come up with an action plan for the former, with goals and timelines. For the latter, accept that things will always be the same and learn to let go. It’s either that or to remain pissed and carry this deadweight with you wherever you go. Trust me, the former option is a much easier one.
(2) List down all the things that make you happy and will help you deal with everyday stress/frustrations. They could be things that
- make you feel good about yourself, e.g. new haircut, manicure/pedicure, massage, facial
- calming, e.g. taking a warm bath, listening to soothing music, going for a walk, drinking a hot cup of the most fragrant tea
- distracting, e.g. watching a funny movie, reading a book, playing online games
- helps you to get emotional support, i.e. going out with friends
I personally find sports very good. Whenever I am angry or frustrated, I go for a good run at the treadmill or attend an intensive cardio class at the gym. After a heart-pumping workout, all my stress (and built-up aggression) is gone. And because I’m tired, I sleep like a baby when I get home and don’t mull over my problems unnecessarily
(3) Consider changing your approach or attitude to problems. I’m not saying that you have problems in this area. But I find that a lot of stress can be avoided if we remain positive, optimistic and patient.
(4) Stop snacking. If you can’t, snack on healthy stuff instead. I used to suffer from this problem too- I liked to eat potato chips whenever I’m stressed. It was my way of coping. I wouldn’t gain any weight but I would get a breakout on my face
To deal with this problem, I started stocking up the fridge with fruits and low-fat yogurt instead. Nowadays I go for weeks, even months, without craving for potato chips.
(5) Sign up for gym classes. I know what you mean about not having the motivation. I used to do nothing but weights to build up body mass but it was incredibly boring. Classes are a lot more fun and you get to make new friends. Don’t worry about struggling in the first few sessions. You’re expected to and nobody will give you a hard time about it.
I’m always nervous whenever I attend a class for the first time. But I make it a point to go early, smile at the people walking in and say hi. Most people are happy to exchange tips and talk about the other classes they’ve attended. I’ve made a couple of work-out buddies this way.
(6) Last but not least, don’t give up on yourself!!! Whenever you reach out for comfort foods, think of how miserable you felt at your heaviest. Tell yourself that you’re making things worse, not better. To lose your discipline now means that all the hard excruciating work you’ve put in at the gym will be totally lost. Is that all worth it?
Okay, I hope all my advice will be helpful to you. All these may mean significant changes to your life, but you’ll be a happier person for them, not to mention keep your weight problem under long-term control. Best of luck has_(CENSORED) and remember not to give up!!!
