Just under 15 months ago, I wrote a blog post, “Operation Love Handle“, in which I discussed my Love Handles and how they represented all of the struggle and unhappiness I had been dealing with for the previous 3 years. I discussed changes I was going to make, (including eating only until I was full, and finding new activities) and I discussed how I wasn’t going to focus on losing weight, I was going to focus on being more active, more fit, and more happy.
Well, guys, I’m happy to say, I did it. Not only did I lose weight, but I am much more happy, fit and active.
From January 2012 to January 2013, I’ve lost 25lbs.
January 2, 2012
January 9, 2013
My goal really was just to lose the 15lbs I had gained over the years. I didn’t think that all of the changes I made in my life would lead to such a large weight loss. But, I’m sure happy it did!
If you compare the two photos, taken close to one year apart, you will notice a few things. Besides a cute new hair cut and new cell phone case (and new bathroom; I’ve moved), you will also notice that I am toned. I didn’t just lose weight. I became strong. I developed arm and core muscles. It’s the first time in my life I’ve had arm and core strength.
What I did:
- I changed my diet. Permanently.
- I started a new workout I love and did it a minimum of 3 days a week (but usually 5) for 6 months straight.
- I started a new job where I walked 7-12 miles a day. (And, if you ask anyone I work with, they would tell you I walk quickly).
And that’s it. I started moving more and sitting less.
I didn’t notice any results for months. After all, I gave up eating meat and officially started my diet in October 2011, but didn’t start seeing changes until I ate well and exercised. I started The Bar Method at the end of January 2012 and it wasn’t until the end of March 2012 that I started seeing a small result.
Then, I started a new job (and all the walking) in April 2012, and by August 2012, I really started seeing the weight shed off.
It has been a journey, to say the least. I was challenged by my new workout, new schedule, and lack of free time that came with my new life. It wasn’t easy; it wasn’t easy working out for close to two months with very little results. But, I knew my body and I knew I had to be patient, keep working, and I would see results. And once I did, it was very exciting!
My brother taught me in high school that success breeds success. I found this to be very true this past year. Once I started to feel successful and stronger during my workouts, it lead to me feeling accomplished and more confident. My confidence gave me the courage to step out of my comfort box and make friends, try new activities, and allow myself to enjoy my life more. I then started losing weight, and I felt even more confident about myself and my professional goals.
Don’t be disillusioned, though. 2012 was not an easy year for me. In some ways, it was the most challenging year I’ve ever had professionally and personally. But, through my highs and (sometimes) low lows, I stuck to my diet and exercise; they were my anchors when the world around me was chaos. For the first time in my life I found comfort and solace in exercising. I used to be that girl that would roll her eyes when people would gloat about how important exercise and eating right is for their well-being.
Now?
I’ve an avid believer.
This year, I have two life changes I am making. (I’ll discuss it in a future post).
Until then? I’m enjoying my new body, my gained confidence, and my renewed belief in myself.
BrittanyandTahn 