Members Speak
Coordinated by Kathy S
ObesityHelp.com Support Services Associate
Bariatric University-Bariatric Coach
Hey Everyone!
We are declaring March as Motivation Month. What motivates you with your weight loss and life in general?
My motivational factors are:
Family
Health
Victoria Secret
Come on in and tell us what it is that motivates you. Your post may appear in our March ObesityHelp Newsletter.
Take care,
Kathy
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Photos! Great to look back and be able to pat myself on the back for where I am now compared to three years ago, and also a reality check for when I let a few pounds come "home". Tami - Submitted by TamiFromAL |
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1. Health (only way I can support my family, almost lost my job, very close to disability). 2. family… 3. damn it feels grea(t!!!) to be normalish size... Yes, to fit in chairs, booths, size lg... omg.. me??? Not at goal but getting there, thank God... and my band... 4. I love to exercise, yes, enjoy the high... crazy, yup... - Submitted by: barbie1963 |
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Great motivators for me would be the constant praise and the fact that I don't want people to think that I'm am reverting back to my old ways. And something that really motivates me to keep going is to buy my clothes too small so that I have to lose weight to get into them. That is the best feeling in the world! |
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Family for sure! I could cry thinking about the fact that I have about 4 pictures of myself from the last 15 years, and most of them I wasn't aware were being taken. I have 2 kids and a husband that I love so much and to think that if I died tomorrow they would only have like 4 pics of me to remember me by. If I don't see pictures of myself then I'm not that fat. Also, when ever I talk about my weight in front of my 7 year-old daughter she always says (quite emphatically) "mum-ma, your not fat, your not". It's almost like she can't or won't see it. There are so many things that should motivate me, but in the moment they never do! - Submitted by imamom462 |
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The most obvious motivator for me has been the OH community. |
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My motivational factors are: 1. Using an eating coach 2. Exercise 3. Accepting myself and loving myself and not stressing about a number on the scale 4. Celebrating Life and enjoy growing older....gracefully! - Submitted by Debbiejean |
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Better health smaller sizes compliments - Submitted by Jani |
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Every morning I'm motivated to get up and take a 2.5 mile walk just because I CAN! Before my WLS I couldn't walk from my stove to my kitchen sink without using a cane. As a result of a lot of hard work and two surgeries (WLS in 2007 and a total hip replacement 6 months later) I now have my life back. During my walk each morning I express gratitude to the universe that I have been given a second chance on living. - Submitted by Kathie L. |
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* Improved health * Improved mobility (I can walk, run, dance without injuring myself) * Improved appearance (As long as I keep my clothes on) * My new OH buddies Thanks for asking. It helped remind me what's important. Maria - Submitted by nunini |
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Better overall health |
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Motivation, for me, is related to making a difference in my own life as well as in other's lives. Weight loss has helped me to feel more empowered and able to put more passion into every day. Julia - Submitted by seasheleyes |
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What motivates me every day is remembering what I couldn't do prior to my WLS: * Put on my own socks and tie my shoes * Walk more than 20 feet without getting out of breath * Struggling with personal hygiene * Low self-esteem * Being tired all the time The biggest motivator is to remain healthy and being grateful for having such a wonderful family that supports me through all the changes. My sister, who paid for my entire surgery is who I credit for literally saving my life, my husband who has loved and supported me through 33 years of marriage and the desire to never have to relive the devastating effects of being super morbidly obese again. - Submitted by Sybul C. |
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My motivation continues because of: Being off medication. Feeling good about myself. Wearing comfortable clothing. Surrounding myself with support. - Submitted by RoseyNo |
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my motivational factors ard my health and having a family - Submitted by mara_2169 |
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When I decided that failed diets must become a thing of the past..; the desire to become healthy first set me on this journey. |
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I get my motivation from: The girls at work, they are my cheering team and supported me before my surgery and now. Members of the gym I go to, they know I had surgery and are very supportive of me. Message boards such as Obesity Help My surgeon’s office, they show pride and are like a family My family, my kids told me the other day I was HOT! I made them repeat it because I wanted to make sure I heard them right. Shopping for clothes, need I say more! - Submitted by gardennut |
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Ahhhh, what motivates me...well, I'll begin with anticipating my RNY surgery, current diet with Optifast 800 2x daily (lost 11lbs in 10 days). Now doc wants me to go to just consuming the Optifast 800 6x daily. I'm kinda unsure how that will go, but, I'm feeling motivated by the fact that since I started this journey, my Diabetes numbers have actually been very normal. I've decreased my insulin intake by half and my hunger pains have pretty much subsided (getting past not eating bread, pasta and rice has been a killer). I'm waiting on the insurance approval at this time....all tests done, psyc done, nutrition obligation for now, done....and doc wants me to lose an additional 9lbs + (says more weight loss, the better) prior to surgery. Sooooo.....I'm saying my motivation is anticipated RNY surgery and getting rid of my Diabetes! - Submitted by sensescommon |
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What motivates me? My Family! I don't want to disappoint my wife and kids by leaving this life sooner than I'm supposed to. I can't bear the idea of my kids growing up without a father, or leaving my wife a widow. Just thinking about it chokes me up. CANNOT LET THAT HAPPEN. My Writing Like many men, I think I've always kept my feelings close to the chest. Sure, my amazing wife knows everything about me, but she's really the only one. But with WLS, everything about me is hanging out there for the world to see on my blog. I've always known there are other people suffering with their obesity, but the feedback and comments I've received have made me realize I'm not alone. Also, I had forgotten how wonderful it is to write. I've never written anything so personal as my blog, and frankly it's just pouring out of me. The feedback I've gotten is propelling me toward WLS; without it my fears would stop me short. I used to be a newspaper reporter a long time ago, and I've written a ton in the business world. But this is entirely different. I'm currently unemployed and I've been hoping that WLS will improve my appearance and make my job search easier. I'm secretly hoping that my writing will open up new possibilities. Thanks, Mike - Submitted by bigfatmike |
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What motivates me? Looking back at how I could not perform even the most basic personal hygiene due to my morbid obesity, oh I tried like heck but always wondered if I'd ever be able to cleanse myself properly again! (Sorry if this is too graphic but wanted others to know just how important this is to me! Walking and every day activities of daily living (like above) but things such as walking on my job. I could not walk down the hall and get my office's mail because of lymphedema in lower legs, so other kind workers brought it to me (enablers in a way perhaps, but kind all the same) So now, these co workers, friends, family and of course God are my motivators. As were my surgeon, his nurse practitioner and staff. My personal family physician and his staff are still motivators for me. They truly care and keep track of me. There are many days when I need to think back on just what my motives are because the longer I progress on this journey, the more I find the challenges are harder, most especially IF you admit to yourself that you are a food addict as I am! This website is a HUGE motivator. I have seen, read and met so many others like myself who struggle. In this same token, I see so many wonderful success stories and this is what motivates me. Thank you all. Mary (Molly P) - Submitted by mollypitcher08 |
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What motivates me is: 1) My children and grandchildren 2) My Health 3) And fitting into my jeans I am so glad March is Motivation Month. I have been off track for a long time and I started fresh 2 weeks ago and feel so much better. This will give me a reason to keep up with it in March. - Submitted by Tammy T. |
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I too am motivated by my Children, Grandchild, health and fitting into my Jeans ( which are tight at present). I need a fresh start! - Submitted by jrh0257 |
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My motivation to start this whole process was my sister Cindy. She uses a program on the computer and has lost over 80 lbs in the last year. She never had the health issues I did and I wanted to be free from all the medications for diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol, sleep apnea, etc... I wanted my life back and to be able to walk out in my woods with my kids without having to stop to catch my breath. Today I can do this. I am off all meds but 1/2 of my diabetes pill daily. I can play with my 4 yr old Grandson, but still can't get down on the ground and crawl on my belly when we are playing army guys. I may never do this, I am 58! - Submitted by Terry B. |
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Over a year out, my motivators have changed. Before surgery, I wanted to stop sweating. I could not stand that with any activity, the sweat poured off my head, neck, face. After surgery, it was the weight loss itself. Then, the compliments. And, now, it is all I can do. . . hiking, deciding to buy clothes because I like them not just because they fit, easily getting off exercise equipment, sleeping without CPAP, not slipping on the ice in the parking lot, remembering some dreams, lasering facial hair and having it stay away, climbing waterfalls, being able to bend down and take lots of pictures . . . on and on. Submitted by: mst42 |
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The desire to be rid of all my excess weight for the first time ever in my life. - Submitted by susankmcc11009 |
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Most of what everyone else has said applies to me as well. Like Molly, in the beginning, the fact that it was so difficult for me to perform the most basic tasks associated with daily hygiene was a huge motivator for me. But now that I am half way to my goal, I find that is no longer a problem. In fact, the other day I surprised myself when I needed something out of my left coat pocket but my left hand was full. So, without any thought at all, I simply reached around myself with my right hand and fished whatever it was out of my left pocket. NO WAY I could have done that 8 months ago. Another huge motivator for me in the beginning, was that I was becoming seriously afraid I was not going to be able to continue to meet my job performance expectations because standing for any length of time, or walking any distance at all, was exceedingly difficult for me. Thankfully, my job is primarily a sedentary one; however, now that I am so much more mobile, I make excuses to walk from building to building as many times as I can. I get up now, for any little reason at all, to go check my mail, get another bottle of water from the fridge or just visit with a coworker for a few seconds. So, over time, my motivators have had to change too. Silly as it may sound, my ticker has become a big motivator for me since it passed the half way mark. It only just moved slightly past the half way mark this week and it was an amazing stimulus...I guess because it means the next 100 pounds will be the last 100 pounds. It was kind of daunting in the beginning to see it say "217 pounds to go". 217 pounds seemed so overwhelming. But 100? I can do that!! And finally, now one of my biggest motivators, and one of the most powerful tools in my arsenal is the online tool "TheDailyPlate.com" that allows me to very easily journal every bite I put in my mouth. Every day is about meeting certain goals in terms of water consumption, protein grams, fat grams and calories which MyDailyPlate.com helps me keep track of on a minute by minute basis if I need it. By showing me what I've already consumed today, it helps me make better choices for the rest of the day. Or, if I've used it to 'draft' an eating plan for the day, it helps me see right from the start where to anticipate my problem areas, and I can choose to avoid those by choosing different things. It's kind of like, benchmarking against myself. And since my mind works that way, it helps me a lot. - Submitted by Connie_S |
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Good morning Kathy, My motivation has been my family and friends at work. When my 13 year old granddaughter tells me how great I look and when I can get on the floor and play with my 3 year granddaughter, I know the journey has been well worth it. Also, lurking on OH has helped a lot. I am happy to see that March is Motivational Month as it will be one year since my surgery on March 23rd. Donna Submitted by dngould |
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HHHmmmm what motivates me is........ well ME!! I motivate myself to keep pushing forward and surprising myself more and more everyday. Who doesn't like good surprises!!?? I use to hate getting out of bed and looking at myself in the mirror and trying to squeeze into a size 32 jeans. Now after my surgery I have come to realize that word RESPONSIBILITY. I take full responsibility of my eating, my exercise and everything else in my life instead of pawning the blame on my husband because he always wants to eat out or my family who pushes food upon me or not being able to have time to exercise. Now a days, I jump out of bed to see what I can accomplish today, whether it be to fit into something new or doing something I never thought I could do, like go outside and play with my children, do house cleaning that didn't take my breath away, or to try a new exercise. I grasp the littlest things that don't mean much to some people but mean the world to me!! And me being happy means I'm a happier person to myself, my family and my friends. This might sound selfish but this is my journey and I'm responsible for the outcome!! - Submitted by claddaugh75 |
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God, what a wonderful question. What motivates me? I must say first, just knowing that I have a second chance to a healthier and happier life. Knowing that I can wake up with no pain in my legs or chest. Knowing that I can climb up and down stairs without pain or exhaustion.. Knowing that I can go shopping and pull down clothes right off the rack in my size and look absolutely GREAT in it! Or seeing friends and family that I have not seen in awhile and watching the same mouths that put me down about my obesity to others, now see those same mouths literally drop as they utter out praises. And last but not least, "my family,"... my husband thinks I'm the sexiest thing walking before and after surgery. My daughters are inspired by me, my son can now wrap his arms around me and my breath of sunshine, "my 3 month old grandbaby." I look forward to that beautiful smile of hers each morning as though it's the first time she's seen her 'Mema' and know that I am here to love her, nurture her and be here to guide her through life...God bless Joy and Peace - Submitted by bre67 |
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Kathy... In the beginning of my journey my motivation came from seeing a friend have determination to lose weight. We had discussed the possibility of surgery but for her that is not an option. Her insurance won't cover it and she can't self pay. In spite of those set-backs she is doing the best she can. Furthermore, she was/is supportive of MY efforts- knowing how many diets that I've done over the years. When I found out about an informational session sponsored by the local Bariatric center I registered immediately. THAT was a huge help to me. The doctor gave very honest information about RISK/Benefit ratio. There were a number of people there who had gone through the surgery and seeing them- talking with them- seeing their BEFORE photos. All these things helped me make up my mind. Then of course, it was an issue of my HEALTH. Regularly taking 2 Blood pressure meds, stuff for arthritis, feeling lousy, and wanting to feel good again. That was my main thing... getting Healthy! As a side benefit... I'm beginning to look pretty good, too!!! - Submitted by JEllen |
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What motivates me is the pictures that I have taken recently. It might seem to some that I am bragging, but it is quite an accomplishment of being able to compete in a 5k. The pictures are of me crossing the finish line and I keep them posted in my Facebook so everyone can see the difference in me. - Submitted by debrafriello |
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My motivation is the increased energy and endurance level I have now. When I first started pulmonary rehab for COPD a year ago, I could barely last 10 minutes on the treadmill at 1.2mph. I can now go a full 30 minutes at 2.5mph. I also started out at a #1 workload on the NuStep for 10 minutes and am now at the top workload - #10 -- for 20 minutes. In addition, I started working out on the Elliptical Trainer last week. Now, that one is hard for me due to the underlying COPD, but I can increase my time a little bit each day to get up to 10 minutes per session. Then, I can work on increasing the workload and intensity. All of this is important to me due to my son being at WVU -- and the campus is built on the side of a mountain. Everything is either straight up, or straight down. . . and I have dreaded visits to my son in the past because I felt like I embarrassed him not being able to keep up with him and his friends. Now, I can't wait to go back for a visit. That will be the biggest test of my success in the weight loss journey -- my endurance. - Submitted by Mountain Mama |
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The thought of fitting on the slide with my son at the park this Spring! And shopping in a normal store. ;-) - Submitted by Ange_Drum |
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A fellow OH member asked me how I became motivated to lose weight in preparation for weight loss surgery. It reminded me of a line from the movie, "The Shawshank Redemption".. the line was "Get busy living or get busy dying". Here's my response to him: My motivation was to save my own life. When I weighed around 500 pounds. I expected to just drop over dead some day. But instead, I began developing several painful or bothersome problems. I had gall stones, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, deep vein thrombosis, lymphedema, heel spurs and finally a blood clot in my leg and a pulmonary embolism. Every time I went to my local hospital, there was little they could do to help me. I was even too heavy for some of the diagnostic equipment. I was either over the weight limit, or there was too much fat for things like ultrasound to work properly. I felt like a dead man walking. After a lifetime of gaining a losing weight over and over.. I knew I needed to have weight loss surgery. But because of my weight and history of blood clots.. it wasn't guaranteed that I could even get surgery done. My motivation to lose weight before surgery was three-fold. 1. To show the clinic that I would be a successful patient, so they would perform the surgery. 2. To lose enough weight to increase my chances of surviving the surgery 3. To lose enough weight to qualify for laparoscopic surgery instead of open RNY. I became single minded about reaching this goal. It had to be the most important thing in my life. I went from about 450 pounds to 324 the day of surgery in about five months. Now my motivation is centered on how WLS has changed my life. Instead of just trying to AVOID dying. I am now focusing on LIVING. And life is great! - Submitted by hercules411 |
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My husband and son (they're my biggest cheerleaders) Shopping in the single digit section Wearing 4 inch heels and not worrying about my knees giving out My biggest motivator is my before pictures. They remind how far I've come and where I never want to be again. EVER. - Submitted by USAF Wife |
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Becoming healthy enough to start a family! - Submitted by JenCat84 |
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What motivates me... Dreams of: Summer vacations at the beach. Being able to actually stand in the kitchen while I cook a good, healthy meal for the family. Summer vacations at the beach. Being able to go grocery shopping on my own. Summer vacations at the beach. Getting OFF my wheelchair, at least for a few years. And did I mention summer vacations at the beach? - Submitted by Amalia S. |
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For me, motivating is... Everyone telling me "I can't" or "You won't" or "Maybe you should just settle for...". To which I say, WANNA BET!! JUST WATCH ME! Tamikin - Submitted by Tamikin |
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My motivations... -Turning 30 next year and not wanting to have another decade of being fat and unhealthy. -Wanting to learn to SCUBA dive and know I can maintain my breathing! -Not wanting to be just the "funny" one anymore! -The idea of developing a relationship with a man who I don't immediately feel there must be something wrong with because he finds me attractive! (HOW FRIGGIN' SAD IS THAT) -Stop snoring! - Submitted by Chance22 |
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Girls The thought of not being fat for the first time in my live. The possibility of actually being in better shape than my friends. Accomplishing the biggest and most difficult accomplishment I have ever set out to accomplish. Getting married Having a family Living a long health life And the list goes on. Every day I find more reasons to stay motivated. - Submitted by Islandguy |
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Not being the fat mom at my kids school. - Submitted by BotanicalBath |
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Hey!! My motivation to have this surgery was...... My health My family Being able to walk without my knees & feet killing me Dressing sexy for my man & buying smaller clothes What keeps me motivated.... My family Getting smaller Feeling better with time...hehe - Submitted by oneflesh5 |
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What motivates me... is knowing, in my 53 years of life, I have NEVER lost 40 pounds, no matter what diet I did...UNTIL NOW...!!!!!!!!!! This surgery has truly been a life saver for me...I know, now, that this sleeve is the answer I have looked for ALL my adult life...I KNOW, that even though my weight loss may slow from time to time, as long as I follow the simple rule of protein first, I CAN ACHEIVE my set goal...This would never have been possible before the surgery. I'm motivated by the success of others that have gone before me in this sleeve journey and are still carrying the torch of victory...This speaks volume to me and keeps me MOTIVATED to look forward to the next day, KNOWING.... it will be a success... I LOVE this journey and I LOVE my SLEEVE surgery...!!!! cyndy - Submitted by www.ohmeohmy.com.105 |
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This one was easy for me....It is finally ME....I am my motivator. I have done so much for others my whole life....I honestly say it is MY TURN. I am doing this for me. Not my children, not to find a soul mate, not for anyone person or thing, but ME. March for me is totally about me and having my band to sleeve revision. It's my time now...I am coming out of winter researching as much as I can learn about the sleeve and I am setting my spirit free in spring of March.. Way to go ME. - Submitted by Susan G. |
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This made me cry! Thank you! You have said what I wanted to write, only better! Go Me TOO! For once, it's me! Finally, it's me! Yay Me! - Submitted by KissTheSky |
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I had to have a kick in the pants to get this ball rolling. My motivator was nothing... My Dr., an old Army Medic, sat me down at his office and told me I was 313 pounds. He, knowing the kind of person I am (army brat), told me if I didn't do something like surgery to drop some weight I was going to die. And honestly I would not have cared, until he said. "Katrina, you do this or you will never see your son hit the age of 8." That was only giving me 2 more years with my son. Since then, I am still pre-op and I have lost nearly 55 pounds. And now I am doing this for me. My son and my husband are my biggest fans of this. They remind me what's "not" on mommies food lists and help me limit my intake of any food. So it went from my son to myself. - Submitted by Katrina F. |
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These three are my main reasons for doing this! I don't want them to grow up seeing a Mom that is fat and be ashamed to be seen with her. I don't want them growing up seeing a lazy Mom that never ran and played and enjoyed playing with them. I want to set a good healthy, active role model for them so that they don't spend their adult lives being obese and struggling their whole adult lives being over weight. My husband. I want to be sexy for him. Even though he says he loves me no matter my size. I WANT TO FEEL SEXY! I don't want to become my Mom. A morbidly obese person who's knees are barely hanging in there. Who can't even walk up or down stairs for fear her knees will give out. Who, just walking from the car to her front door is wheezing and out of breath. I don't want to grow up to be like my mom any more. I love her dearly, don't think I don't. But I don't want to live the heartache she has and have the low self-esteem she has. My dog. Silly I know! My dog has to be ran 2 miles a day. He's a herding/working class breed so he HAS to be exercised and my oldest son who is going into army basic training on Sunday has been running him nightly 2 miles. So now I have to step it up and make sure he gets the exercise he needs. Last, and from now on NEVER least. For me. So that I feel happy and comfortable in my skin. So that when I look in the mirror I don't loath the person looking back. So that when I put something on I'm not pulling and wishing it would just hang straight down. I want to be content with my body. I'll never be a super model, but, I do want to run at least 2 miles every day. I want my kids to be proud that I'm their mom. I want my husband to take me to the military balls and be proud that I'm on his arm. - Submitted by SuziJones |
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This excess weight will no longer be a detriment in seeking employment ventures. - Submitted by OHHappyDaise |
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You all have great things to keep you motivated :) My main motivation is that I want to FEEL strong and healthy again. I want to be able to go backpacking and hiking and not feel like I'm dying halfway up the mountain :) I want to be lean and flexible enough to hold complicated, unmodified, yoga poses! I really want to be able to get healthy enough to conceive a child. I'd also love to be able to wear knee length boots. I know it's kinda lame, but I also really want to END the glares and women hitting on my very attractive (6'3" and 192lb) boyfriend when we're out together. Man, it'd be awesome if I could weigh less than him. I'm pretty sure that looks wise, a lot of people think he's outta my league because of my weight, and the glares and snickers do really get to me. Funny thing is, he seems to very much enjoy my booty, but he's still been very supportive. I just wanna feel like we "fit" together more.... it'd be awesome to be able to sit in his lap, or have my man be able to pick me up on our wedding day to carry me across the threshold! I wanna be proud of the random photo's on Facebook that people tag me in... rather than mortified and feeling the need to untag myself! I want to gain the confidence to find my career path, and a decent job where my weight doesn't discriminate against me. I fully agree with the posters stating they are doing it for themselves! I deserve this and I need to prove to myself that I can do it! I'm a strong person on the inside and it's time for my outer body to showcase that! - Submitted by LhiannanShee |
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I'm only 2 months out but top 10 motivators right now are: 1. Not being diabetic anymore 2. Being around for a long time with my DH 3. My clothes keep falling off me...so I have to go shopping! 4. Feeling DH's arms go all the way around me instead of just halfway. 5. The thoughts of Victoria Secret in my future. 6. Being able to be a grandmother someday (Not yet...I'm not ready!) 7. Having my appearance match my words when I work with clients on health based matters. 8. Being an example to others who are obese that there is hope. 9. The feeling of satisfaction every time I get on the scale and another pound is gone. 10. Knowing that everything I do today solidifies that I am not a failure in my journey for a healthier me. - Submitted by Kyle H. |
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I am motivated by strong women that I see. With the Olympics happening, I've had the chance to see world class women athletes and I look at them and see how healthy and vibrant they are and I think "I want to be like that!" Also, warm weather motivates me. I'm getting in gear to be a hot mama this summer. I want to show skin! - Submitted by Cleopatra_Nik |
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My health motivates me. I try not to concentrate on the scale so much and remind myself of all the little things I can do now that I couldn't a year ago. - Submitted by Kelly S. |
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I am motivated by the fact that for the first time ever: I have lost 5 lbs. in a week; I am not tempted by unhealthy foods; I can eat just until I'm satisfied and not until I'm stuffed and feeling sick; I can walk up two flights of stairs without stopping to catch my breath; I can scrub my back without a scrub brush - those are just a few of the things that motivate me! Thank you RNY and I look forward to being more and more motivated with each passing day. - Submitted by mzmimi |
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My motivational factors Include my desire to be the best I can be physically, my daughter's wedding in August (I'm planning to wear a slinky strapless dress) and my future grandchildren. - Submitted by bugpuddin |
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I had my surgery in September 2009 and have been wearing winter clothes so far on this journey. For the first time the other day I put on shorts and a tank top, both way too big and got to see bones I didn't know I had! I'm finally seeing the beginning of the new me! Being healthier to enjoy all the summer things I like to do is a big part of my motivation but let's be honest, looking better is a huge part of it, too. My love of scuba diving is the biggest thing motivating me right now. The last 2 years I've been so out of shape that my diving has suffered. My next dive trip is in June, we're going back to Roatan, Honduras to a resort we've been going to for 15 years. I will have lost over 120lbs since my last trip there in May 09 and I can not wait to be able to get around like I did 15 years ago, although I'm smaller now than I was when we started diving. I won't have to depend on my husband to help me do simple things like putting my fins on, not to mention I'll be healthier which lessens the inherent dangers. And I would be lying if I didn't admit wanting to see the reactions from the staff there that I have known for so long. They only know me as fat so this new me will be a surprise! Off to bask in the winter sun to soak up some vitamin D...and some color on these lily white arms & legs! - Submitted by Deedles |
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What motivates me: 1. When I can tell that my daughter, who is six, looks so much more healthy now too because of the changes we have made at home I get very motivated because I think of how awfully I ate before and how we used to do that together and now we play together and make healthier foods together. 2. I am motivated when I look into the mirror and see bones or parts of my body that I really had forgotten were there. 3. When my husband compliments me on my body, I get all jittery and in love with him again. 4. When co-workers give me compliments it helps keep me on track because I like to sneak and eat snacks I'm not supposed to have. 5. Improved health info definitely motivates me as well. 6. Smaller clothing motivates me...haven't been to Lane Bryant since Fall of 2009...been shopping at the Goodwill!!! - Submitted by bootersmom |
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1. Increasing confidence I didn't even know I had. 2. Great sex!! 3. More energy and time for my kido's 4. Health keeps getting better and better. BP before surgery 160/80, 5 months post op 117/75 5. Swimsuit season - Submitted by saraweeks |
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When it comes to eating the right things: 1. NOT getting sick! 2. Being able to wear cute dresses all the time :) 3. Not wanting to go back to my weight pre-surgery When it comes to going to the gym: 1. GOALS! I love having goals and being able to complete them... I'm trying to get up to biking 25 miles and I'm up to 18 in 48 minutes!! 2. Being toned. I have some extra skin and would love to get rid of it :P - Submitted by miss_phobia |
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I am losing weight in preparation for DS surgery. What motivates me are all the inspiring things I've read on this board and others, from people who have had this surgery. - Submitted by Paul_H |
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My motivational factors are: My 6yr old daughter being excited about her mommy doing stuff with her! Feeling better about myself. - Submitted by Christa_42 |
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What is motivating me now to continue losing weight is a family reunion to celebrate my mom's 65th birthday this summer! What keeps me motivated and encouraged are the wonderful people on the DS forums :) Mickie - Submitted by happychick |
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1) My health 2) Holding off the orthopedic surgeon as long as I can, he wanted to do surgery at 44, 52 and counting... no surgery 3) My job as director of the YWCA Health, Wellness and Fitness 4) Being the sandwich generation with kids at home and parents aging, I need to be healthy myself so I can care for them. - Submitted by Amanda-DS |
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I am in the maintenance phase of my weight loss surgery. The biggest motivation for me to keep my weight off is the joy it gives me to be an active participant in LIFE again! My obesity not only changed me on the outside, it changed the person I was on the inside. I felt like life was passing me by and I watched it from my living room window most often. But, I am so glad to be back among the LIVING and enjoying everyday and participating in as much as I can and never forgetting where I came from. - Submitted by Renee2007 |
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Ditto, Christa! Many motivational factors for me... In no particular order: My wife is chronically ill and she has trouble keeping up with day-to-day motherhood activities...so I have to be physically fit enough to work a hell of a lot (80+ hours a week) AND be a better husband and father for my family. My 9 year-old son, Zachi, broke my heart one day when he told me that I do not play with him....but I have unstable blood pressure and generalized misery with any physical exertion......so I knew I had to do something to lose weight to have the physical health to play ball with him in the front yard. My dad worked so much, he had no time for quality time with me and all a kid really sees is that. "Dad doesn't want to play with me" (affects a kid's self-esteem and self-worth) and for that reason, I do not want him to feel the pain that I felt as a child. Break the cycle. As if those reasons are insufficient: SEX - I am too young to be unable to handle my business --- if you know what I mean! Short of installing a Code Blue button in the bedroom (for me or her)....I need the DS to keep EVERYONE happy! - Submitted by zcadden |
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My son... every time I see his face, that's my biggest motivator, to not only be a healthy mom to him, but raise him with healthy eating habits in hopes to avoid him going down the same obese path I went down. - Submitted by jdr1208 |
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I wish to lose weight to be healthy again. To do things that I have missed out on. To enjoy life again. - Submitted by MCBUTLER |
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I am motivated by other's progress here on OH. It helps to see others who have gone down this road and made it out the other side. Sure there are bumps in the road and potholes too. But the journey will be worthwhile, I will embrace my new life. I plan to be more active and healthy,..not taking the life God gave me for granted. - Submitted by Sosew |
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My motivational factors are: Sobriety (without it I'm screwed) God (my Higher Power) Myself (daily I must look within myself to be happy/serene) I love visiting here on OH everyday and sharing a daily post from a book that I have titled A DAY AT A TIME. I also enjoy chatting and sharing with friends that I've met online here; some have even become real life friends. This website has become my weight loss support system. There is allot of comradely that can be found in many of the forums. A place were we can come and feel accepted for just being ourselves (before WLS and after WLS.) - Submitted by RHONDA FROM KY |
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Kathy, I'm with you .. My Motivational factors: Health - my Primary Doctor said if I didn't do something I probably won't survive 3 years. Family - knowing if I was around, my family (which if you know me includes friends) would suffer. Plus seeing both my parents die because they didn't take care of themselves and heed warning signs, was a big factor. Past - I never want to go back to 435 pounds. I don't want to go back to 300 pounds. Keeping my 64 jeans is a reminder of where I came from. Present - Still losing weight, even after two years, is unbelievable. Close to 190 pounds, and still going. I am still losing about 1 pound a week, and I know I could never do that before. Future - Hopefully I will be able to settle down and have a family. Then again, I ask "can this chick magnet really take himself off the market" (OK, I am gonna get a black eye when "SOMEONE" reads this - LOVE YOU HONEY !!) Community - being part of and helping the bariatric community is more than enough motivation. Being surrounded with people who "ACTUALLY GET IT AND UNDERSTAND" is alone worth it. Getting advice/help/wisdom from those who have "been there" is more than one can ask. And being able to help those who are just beginning this journey is a great reward. And if I never had the operation, how would I have gotten to know SO many wonderful people on this board? - Submitted by tcasola |
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The biggest one is weighing every day - I HATE seeing those numbers go up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Also, since I have my black belt in shopping - buying beautiful clothes in small sizes. Having my surgeon tell me he's proud of me. I know this should be first on my list, but I have to be honest, these other things come before - not having to take ANY medication! Being able to walk Volksmarches/charity walks (although my thigh surgery has put a temporary halt to that) . Having credibility so that I am able to reach out and help others who are struggling. And these are "some of my favorite things" ... - Submitted by happylapbander |
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Knowing I will live longer and be here for my children and grandchildren ! When I started this path it was to live a long time for my children, my husband (their father), who was not obese in any way, passed away when he was only 48. I had always figured he would be here for us. Since he was not, I had to be sure that I was here for them! I had lost my father when I was eleven so knew what it was like to grow up without a father and didn't want them to be motherless also! My mother is 84 and I plan to live that long or longer, and it wouldn't have been possible on the path that I was on. - Submitted by sally125 |
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Having been obese all my life, I have always felt like a failure. My motivation now is that I know it is possible and that I can complete my weight loss journey - I realize that I am not a failure. I just haven't had the motivation to keep going until now! Thanks for making me think about it - Submitted by Ruth A. |
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This is a good topic Kathy... What motivates me is knowing that I am in control of what goes in my mouth and I hold the direction whether positive or negative where my health issues lie. I am a diabetic but when I had surgery they took me off of the medication so now my diet plays a big part in that factor. I still take a low does of high blood pressure medication, but I know as my weight goes down I may not have to take that either. Looking in the mirror and flirting with the new me...running towards the camera instead of away from it...and the best part of all, being able to throw away the cotton panties and shop at Victoria Secrets and Frederick's of Hollywood. I just love being a hussy! - Submitted by dreamgirl119 |
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Hi Kathy. Great topic. My motivational factors are: Health - so my knees feel better. Summer is coming! Swimsuit season and I love the pool. Wearing my cute bikinis even at my age. My smaller clothes are so cute and I miss wearing them. Vacation this summer to Europe with my Mom. My cute and sexy underwear that I have since I made goal! - Submitted by Lucy M |
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Having people talk to me instead of near me. I may be the same cool person, but my weight no longer makes others feel uncomfortable (or worse, pity). My daughters. They are my joy. I want to live a long time so I can see them grow and change. My husband. He's active duty Air Force. I want to not only support him at what he does, but set a good example of myself as his wife. - Submitted by MacArthurBug |
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OK, I am in! My motivators are: Wearing all the hot clothes I want! Dancing again. Being able to participate in things with my family (amusement parks and stuff). Increased and possibly new bedroom activities!(Yes, I said it!) Those are the things I think about daily, and keep me from overdoing it. Patrina a.k.a .JessicaRabbit - Submitted by PMcBride |
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Oh my gosh - never thought about the bedroom possibilities. For me it all the above and I will be able to participate in a stockcar racing school. Playing baseball again - Submitted by scorer14 |
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Hi Kathy My husband is my biggest motivator. He gets me moving so that I am active and no longer a couch potato and therefore will continue to be a happier and healthier spouse. Life motivates me. I want to live a long and healthy life. My child motivates me. I want to be there for him and his grandchildren, when he has them. LOL! This site motivates me,. I want to be an active member and be able to contribute my successes and wows, big or small, and to praise others the same way they praise me. When I shop, I want to be able to buy "regular" clothes off the rack like other "normal" people. LOL! Thanks for allowing me to state what motivates me; to continue on my personal weight loss journey. Have a great week! Eileen - Submitted by Eileen C |
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Pictures of where I was in life that are burnt into my head. - Submitted by Bonnie M. |
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I'm motivated by the weirdest things... I can crouch down low without loss of oxygen. I can cross my legs in a feminine fashion, not sit like a trucker. I fit in chairs, booths and have room left over - no longer panic when going to restaurant about where to sit. I touch my collarbones all day! And they are always there! I can see my eyes in the mirror and they are beautiful... I have energy, I can exercise, I enjoy sex again, I look good in slinky stuff - what with my eyes and collar bones taking the attention from my saggy boobs! I am comfortable in my own skin for the first time in my adult life..... - Submitted by Jacki1965 |
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Hi Kathy! I have to admit one of my biggest motivations is looking better. I know the more popular answer is to be healthy, to live longer, etc., and of course those are all motivations for me too, but I really, really hated being severely obese. I was embarrassed to be seen in public. I stopped singing in church because I didn't want to get up in front of people. I just hated being seen. I didn't really feel all that bad (except for knee pain, which is GONE), but I was just constantly embarrassed by the way I looked. The ability to lap swim again, go for walks (I had stopped that, too, because I didn't want to go outside and be seen, and I CERTAINLY didn't want to be seen at the gym), and just participate in life again are wonderful rewards. My motivation to continue to work out and watch what I eat is mainly that I never, ever want to go back. - Submitted by niffer1283 |
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My main motivators - staying the size I am now setting and achieving new goals all the time health upcoming bathing suit season the rush of success! - Submitted by Sue D. |
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My motivation? Being an able resource as a husband and father. I had become a liability that had to be accommodated; other than as the primary income source and with my obesity, the longevity of that was probably in jeopardy. - Now I enjoy officiating HS football and basketball... that also supplements my primary income to support my family and friends and keeps me active. - I am here 4 yrs post-op, teaching my youngest daughter to drive as I did the older two previously (one of my why-have-surgery goals). - I was able to do the work to convert part of our downstairs to a bedroom and walk-in closet for my oldest daughter to move back home after enrolling in a Masters degree program so she does not have to worry about paying rent while attending school full-time. - I am able to provide service to friends and family; like I led the design and building of a custom bi-directional handicap ramp with a landing porch halfway down for my Mom, followed a month later by building her a 10x14 aluminum barn-style storage shed in her back yard. - Doing the local annual 10K with my brother and brother-in-law - I ran for and was elected to local city council (Nov 08) to have a greater involvement in local and community quality of life. (RNY Sep 06) It is far more rewarding to hear my kids tell their friends, "My dad can help with that" than being the target of the numerous fat jokes they endured before. Trying to maintain this new quality of life and involvement, that is my motivation. - Submitted by wjoegreen |
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My motivators are: I am afraid to go back to the weight that I was (315 lbs.) Shopping "off the rack". Traveling (is easier-no seat belt extensions and the tray lets all the way down) Staying off the "cocktail" of medicines (mainly hypertension) Not having to go to the doctor every other week Having the ability to run 3 half marathons and train for a full Frederick's of Hollywood Wearing heels comfortably for several hours C-PAP machine - Submitted by puddin2day |
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I have been entrusted to take care of a fabulous little dog. We do agility together and she is a rocket on the course and has great potential to do great things. Her only problem is that I am her team mate and I do not do her justice. In order to be the best team mate I can be, I have to lose the weight and be able to run with my dog. My first dog saved my life in that she brought me out of my completely introverted life and introduced me to a whole new world. My current dog is here also to save me by giving me a reason to get healthy. - Submitted by turningpoint |
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