Gaining weight back is a terribly disappointing setback. Ten pounds is uncomfortable, but 50 pounds or more is nearly debilitating. It makes the person feel like she’s out of control going in the wrong direction. She wants to put on the brakes, but seems unable to do so. She’s embarrassed and distressed.
Finally, she hits a breaking point. She is ready to begin again.
But beginning again takes a ton of courage: Getting back on the scale to weigh in. Going back to the gym to start exercising. Letting go of using food for comfort. Making that call to set up accountability.
This past week I’ve seen several people begin again. Remembering how strong they used to be, how fit they used to be, how small their stomach used to be…and how they’d now become weak and heavy was emotionally painful for them. They fought tears. The regret was deep.
Their courage to come back made me proud.
I don’t know, if I totally fell off track and gained my weight back, if I could ever lose it again. It scares me to think about it. Yet I see my clients, discouraged but fighting, willing to try again.
I’m amazed by them and we can all take heart by their show of courage.
