Chapter 1: The Start of a Transformation

To all the girls aspiring to shed some pounds…

I spent a significant part of my life dealing with obesity. Previously, I penned down my experiences regarding the mental toll my weight took on me. I once believed that sustainable weight loss was an unreachable goal, and that I would always struggle to accept my body as it was. However, a change was on the horizon.

The body positivity movement has played a crucial role in helping me appreciate that all bodies are valid. This movement empowers individuals to feel comfortable in their skin, regardless of societal standards of beauty. It has inspired countless people to embrace their own bodies, including myself. While I celebrated body positivity, I also yearned for change, as my weight had been a source of distress for as long as I could remember.

My journey into dieting began at the tender age of eight, and it has been a continuous cycle since then. I oscillated between various diets—Keto, WW, low-carb, omad, intermittent fasting—the list goes on. Each year, I would experiment with the latest diet trends, managing to lose a little weight only to regain it and then some, perpetually for over 15 years.

Society’s disdain for overweight individuals is palpable. Stereotypes suggest laziness, poor hygiene, and a lack of self-discipline, painting a negative picture of those who struggle with their weight. Such perceptions create a stigma, leading to the belief that fat individuals are solely responsible for their circumstances, often viewed as those who have surrendered to unhealthy eating habits.

For years, I fantasized about being slim, convinced that my weight was the root of all my problems. I thought that thin people led easier, carefree lives. My teenage self was convinced that transforming my body would drastically improve my life. I felt immense shame about my appearance and longed for a swift change to escape the reality of my situation.

Fast forward to last year, when I managed to lose around 50 pounds. It feels surreal to say that I am no longer classified as obese, but rather fall into the overweight category. The compliments I've received over the past few months have lifted my spirits in ways I never expected. I’ve never been told I look great so often in such a short span. While I still have more weight to lose, I take immense pride in my progress. The weight loss journey is filled with highs and lows—doubts, desperation, deception, and frustration—but ultimately, it is a beautiful experience.

However, I must admit that losing weight hasn’t inherently brought me happiness. I don’t feel like my life has fundamentally changed. Currently, I find myself in a “mid-twenties crisis,” seeking to understand my identity beyond my professional life. This journey has taught me that true happiness doesn’t stem from being thin. While I always knew this conceptually, living through it has made it profoundly clear. Many challenges persist even after losing weight, traveling, or receiving promotions. Some of these issues require introspection and internal healing rather than external changes.

Now, I grapple with my fears of regaining the weight I’ve shed. I sometimes feel guilty after meals or when I indulge in certain foods. Exercise has become somewhat of an obsession. Despite these challenges, I embrace the changes that this journey has brought me. I have evolved for the better, and I hope to find peace within myself in the future.

Chapter 2: Insights from the Experts

To deepen your understanding of weight loss and self-improvement, I recommend these insightful videos.

The first video, "How to Become THAT Girl in 3 Steps - Weight Loss Edition," offers practical tips for those looking to transform their lives through weight loss. It breaks down the essential steps needed to kickstart your journey effectively.

The second video, "What Is REALLY Keeping Women From Losing Weight And Looking Their Best In 2024 | JJ Virgin," delves into common obstacles faced by women in their weight loss journeys, providing valuable insights for overcoming these challenges.