Why You Haven't Lost The Weight

So it's Sweet 2016 and you've decided to lose weight and get into shape this year. If you are like me, losing weight was the same goal you made is 2014 and 2015. But hey...you can't let that get you down. Determination is the key. Right?

I've lost the weight before (30lbs to be exact) and was able to keep it off for five years. I felt good and I looked great but then life threw me a couple of curve balls. I developed a couple of tumors (noncancerous thank God) and had to have surgery. My recovery threw me off track with my workouts and so I gained ten pounds. After some time I got back on track but then yet another curve ball came when my sister died. I lost my motivation and didn't feel like doing anything. While I didn't  have a big appetite, I continued to gain the weight. I was plagued with migraines and it wasn't long before I became a recluse, tucked away under the covers of my grimly darkened bedroom. It took time and a lot of prayer before I came from "underneath my covers" and when I did I discovered I had gained all 30lbs back!

We were getting ready to go into year 2015 and I decided right then and there to lose the weight. I didn't like feeling sluggish. I didn't like the way my clothes fit. I didn't like my Michelin Tire Man neck! My defining moment and extra push of determination came when my momma called one Sunday morning while I was getting ready for church. I had to put her on speaker while I dressed. She was just chattering away (like mommas do) when she stopped and said "Bridgett, are you having trouble breathing." I was like "No, momma, I am trying to get into this girdle." Needless to say she was still laughing when we hung up the phone.

Here it is year 2016 and I am still fighting the battle of the bulge. It wasn't because I didn't try in 2015 but for some reason, I couldn't consistently lose the weight. So, I had a "Come to Jesus" meeting with myself and I realized the error of my ways. I had a vision but unlike the first time I lost the weight, I didn't have a plan. I didn't meal plan. I didn't set an exercise schedule and stick to it and I didn't study my body.

If you find yourself in the same flubber blubber boat as myself then here is why you probably haven't lost the weight.

1. Failure to Study Your Body
The first time I lost the weight was ten years ago. My body has changed. My metabolism isn't what it used to be. There is a method to the madness. It's important to pay to attention to the changes in your body so that you can develop a plan accordingly. If possible, I encourage you to speak to your primary health care physician so that they can do a complete physical and determine your body's strengths and deficiencies. This time around I found out my cholesterol was elevated so it wouldn't be ideal for me to do an Atkins style diet like I did before...(which meant I have to watch it with the cheese) Cheeesseee...but I like cheese!

2. Failure to Meal Plan

It's important to meal plan and shop wise. Eating healthy is more expensive. Humph...I'll never understand why it costs more to eat less fat! If you are are on a budget like me, a high grocery bill alone can be discouraging. Thank God I've discovered the power of the coupon! By planning my meals in advance, couponing and watching the grocery store ads, not only can my family and I eat healthier but we also can eat name brand! Go Bridgett! Go Bridgett!

3.Failure to Exercise

Eck...I'm no fan of exercising but it's necessary not only in weight loss but for our body's health. I don't have a lot of friends (can you hear the violins) so I don't have anyone to hold me accountable. (End violins) My hubby exercises with me but he's a distraction sometimes. I mean how am I suppose to concentrate with him in the background yelling "Shake it momma! Shake it!" Besides I have absolutely no rhythm and I get embarrassed. Someone suggested I try to find a fun way to exercise so I found a Christian Zumba video on Youtube and I like it! As for the accountability partner, I remembered the BMackWrites motto When Life Won't Give You Lemons, GROW YOUR OWN!" so I   decided to hold myself accountable.  

Besides I can deal with the hubby and his Steve Erkel antics. They keep me laughing and add to my enjoyment.These are only a few reasons why you probably haven't lost the weight. Hopefully, this blog posts leaves you feeling empowered so JUST DO IT. Even if you fail, get up and try again. You are worth the work it's going to take to become a healthier you!