Since early June I've been diligently counting my macros with the IIFYM calculator, and have had a lot of success with this method. In the last 3 months, I've been able to shed approximately 8 lbs, and have reached 142 lbs. My goal was 140 by the wedding. I think my ultimate goal is 135 lbs. I think that is where I would be happy with my body, while also maintaining a healthy amount of fat and muscle for my 5'4" frame. Although that is my ultimate goal, I know I won't reach that goal in just 45 days by the wedding date. That goal is for after the wedding. It's extremely unhealthy to set extreme expectations like that in such a short amount of time.
A lot of people ask me what my secret is for losing the weight. I find the answer to this question to be incredibly convoluted, and in all honesty it isn't just one thing. My success in losing over 45 lbs doesn't get credited to ONE diet or ONE exercise. I tried a cleanse, then I tried eating clean until I hit a plateau, then I tried going full paleo until I hit a plateau, and finally at my last plateau in the final stretch of my weight loss I tried counting Macros - which is by far the most difficult method, but one that if you follow the rules you will find the most success.
Plateaus are a part of the process. It's one of those ways your body shows you how incredible it is at adapting to new changes in lifestyle. In order to continue with progress, change is necessary.
So I guess you could say the secret to my weight loss was my ability to change my routine in order to further my progress. Try things that you think you can handle. Baby steps will get you further than giant leaps in this case.
Currently with only about 7 lbs to go, I find myself at an interesting emotional state of mind. I'm not obsessing over those 7 lbs. I have a goal, and I will reach it eventually, but right now I am just enjoying where I am, versus where I used to be. I am so incredibly thankful I was able to start eating healthier and exercising when I did. I am almost exactly where I want to be for my wedding, and I can genuinely say I love the way I look in my dress. I was able to pick a style of dress that I never would have dreamed of wearing just 2 years ago.
Sure I still have my insecurities. Those will always be there, but instead of those insecurities telling me I CAN'T wear something, I simply look and add that to my goals. "
At my next dress fitting, I will make sure my arms are more toned. I will work on more back exercises.... "
Positive thoughts.
Positive thoughts are one of the biggest rewards I've been able to enjoy with this new life. I can see a challenge, accept it, and work on bettering myself - rather than beating myself up.
The main thing I'm taking away from being in "
The last 10 lbs stage" is that not matter how long those lbs take, I'm happy with myself. I am proud of my progress and sticking to it. I'm happy with my wrinkly skin that hasn't quite sprung back from the excess weight. It's a reminder of where I came from.
