Misery Loves Company
One unexpected consequence of starting this blog has been the fact that, as a result, I’ve stumbled upon and have been reading a number of other blogs written by people who are also trying to lose weight. And I have to say my reactions are mixed. On one hand it’s awfully scary to think about the sheer number of people who are struggling with this same issue. But on the other hand, there’s also something that is a bit comforting in knowing that you’re not the only person in the world who’s tired of living in this way and who is trying to do something about it.
When I started keeping this journal, I never considered that it might become a way to reach out to other people… and maybe it won’t prove to be that at all, but tonight I feel intrigued (dare I say hopeful?) by the possibility. Even though I don’t subscribe to programs like Weight Watchers, I know that one of the reasons why some people experience success with WW (and other similar programs) is because of the comradery factor. There’s no denying that it’s good to have people to cheer you on and to help pick you back up when you stumble. Since I began on this journey, I’ve done everything possible to keep it a private affair. I’ve been afraid of the possibility of falling down (yet again) in public. And maybe this blog will turn into nothing more than what I originally hoped for: a place to journal about my experiences in the hopes that doing so would help keep me motivated… and of so, that’s just fine. However, if it does turn out to spark some conversations with intelligent people who are either struggling to find the solution to the same puzzle I’m grappling with or who have honest and well thought out opinions on the subject… well, all the better.
Five months ago, when I’d decided that I simply couldn’t go on living any longer in the way that I had been, I could only close my eyes and leap forward, hoping for the best, but not knowing for sure what the future would hold. I suppose all of life is like that really. Each day, we go on about the business of our lives, not entirely sure what will happen in the next moment, but hoping and believing, even without thinking about it, that in the end, everything will be okay. At the time, I think what I felt most was a true belief that, regardless of what I did next, things simply couldn’t get any worse.
But tonight I feel something different. Honestly, it’s an unfamiliar feeling. Not that I’m a perpetual doomsdayer, mind you… but I’ve certainly never been described as an optimist either. That said, tonight, I feel hopeful. Is it because, lately, I’ve been experiencing enough small successes to make me feel as though all my efforts are actually paying off? That’s part of it, sure… but I think there’s another component too. Tonight, as I look out into the blogosphere, I see more than just the black void. I still don’t know what the future holds, but I know I’m not alone. And that helps.
hello! I find the blog community, at times, can be more helpful than my meetings. The Internets are at your fingertips whenever you need them and can be useful if you are someone who eats when they’re bored - checkin out what people have to say about their weight loss has stopped me from raiding the fridge on a few occasions and has even prompted exercise from time to time.
Best of luck with your endeavours.
Thanks for the comment on my blog! It’s really encouraging to know that other people have been where I am and come through the experience happier, healthier and lighter! Congrats and good luck!
Blogging has become the key to my motivation. Knowing that others have the same struggles, and that some have overcome, is what gives me hope and motivation. I have wonderful family and friends, but few who have my issues, and even fewer that I would share my struggles with.
And I think celebrating the small victories are incredibly important. I resisted lunch out today with my best friends because I had healthy leftovers at church. That is a big deal, and I’ll be proud, and use that to motivate me through the day.
I look forward to hearing more from you!
p4pretention: I never would have dreamed that there was such an active “community,” as you put it, filled with people who are sharing bits of the same struggle. To me, just the sheer fact that this gets people talking is the very definition of healthy… anyway, thank you for your thoughts and good luck to you as well.
fatbridesmaid: Right back at ya!
Krissie: I’m totally with you. I think part of the reason why I’ve always failed at this in the past is that I concentrated far too much on the bigger picture. Right now, I try think about my weight loss 1 pound at a time… because if I think about the larger numbers it’s just too easy to get discouraged. Small victories are what it’s all about and *you* should definitely be pleased by your recent display of will power. Good for you!
Cheers everyone!
j
hi, i was going through your food diary and noticed that you’ve been skipping breakfast a lot (and or skipping other meals). maybe it’s not my place but this is really unhealthy and won’t go over well in the long run. my sister is a nutritionist and she basically set me on the right path to losing weight. the key is to eat several meals a day but keep them moderate in portions (and of course, well balanced in veggie, proteins, and fruit). otherwise, you’re putting a lot of stress on your body which can lead to a lot of weight loss in the short long but it makes it a lot easier to gain it back eventually. i mean, really, it’s to each her own when it comes to knowing what works but i figured i’d mention the breakfast thing b/c i know for me, that is really important. :-/
alice: it’s not out of line for you to say something about it. I’ve actually been away from my job and off my normal routine for the few weeks before/after the holidays which has totally thrown my schedule for a loop. I have been skipping a few meals here and there, but that’s mostly because I’ve had family in town and my sleep/eating patterns are way off. Thankfully, I’m back to work Monday, however, which should help me get back on my normal eating schedule which *always* includes a very light breakfast and lunch. :) Anyway… I appreciate your concern. One of the reasons I started this blog was so that I could learn from those who might stumble upon me… so, it is with all honesty that I thank you for your feedback.
Cheers!
j
I’ve never been one to go in for any sort of counselling, but being answerable to a blog and having a space to look for the root of the weight issues has been the backbone of staying true to my diet. As you said ‘tonight I feel something different’. From my own point of view, the moment you start writing your resolve is strengthened. Friends and family can become tired with each new diet attempt & failed but the blogosphere full of people who have the same issues is hugely supportive.
Jenny: I love what you said here… “The moment you start writing, your resolved is strengthened.” This is so true. Honestly, I never imagined that by starting this blog I would have the chance to talk with other people, like you, who are struggling with the same issues I am. I only knew that if I took the time to reflect on what I was doing and and on what is happening to me, that it could only help me as I try to change my life. Finding a whole community of thinkers and listeners to whom I can vent and from whom I can learn has been like icing on the proverbial cake — even though I’m not eating much cake these days! :) It’s such a gift and I don’t take it for granted. I’m glad you have found similar support to help you along as well.
Cheers!
j
Cake, what is cake?
Actually yesterday I had my first piece of Christmas cake, but it was more than 12 days past Christmas and a terrible w/e!
Will visit again soon. Best wishes