Before & After: My Story

So I figure that since I began writing this blog with the hope that it might help inspire others to begin, or continue, their quest for healthy living and weight loss, I should quickly share my story. I think it’s necessary that my readers are aware that I have not always been an athlete, and that I lived a very sedentary, unhealthy life prior to how you presently know me.  I want those of you who are currently struggling with your weight, or who have struggled in your past, to know that I can completely relate to you!  I’ve been there!  And I appreciate that I can truly understand the personal commitment that must occur in a person to make a permanent change for the better.

I came to a point a few years ago where I found myself completely unhappy with my appearance. I didn’t feel attractive, I hated how I looked, and I yearned for a change. So one day, I finally made the decision that enough was enough,  I was not going to live my adult life wishing I looked and felt differently, all the while never bothering to even remotely try to make a change.  I wanted to feel good about myself again.  So slowly but surely, through hard work, dedication, eating right, and persistence, I gained results that I never thought possible, and it’s created an amazing transformation in my life.  You can do this too.

I began my journey in March of 2011, and it took me about a year to lose a total of 50 pounds.  I began slowly, going to the gym 3 times per week to spend 30 minutes on the treadmill.  As time passed, I began gradually increasing the length of my workouts, challenging myself with new goals, running more than walking, and building my confidence. It was my darling husband who finally talked me into running my very 1st 5K.  I was intimidated!  People who ran outdoors were so… amazing!  I however, was not (in my opinion).  How could I bring myself to have the confidence to truly become one of those magnificent people I’d see effortlessly floating over the pavement?  How could I become a runner?

Well I finally took that first step outdoors, and I fell in love at that moment.  I wasn’t able to run the whole time, and I struggled as I pushed myself onward, but I was so proud of myself when I finished; I never looked back.   And now here I am, able to share the wonderful stories that create this blog.  I experienced an amazing transformation, all because I had the courage and the will to make a change.  Do you?

My theory is that I did not lose weight, I GOT RID of it, and it’s not coming back! Sure, I’m not perfect, and I find myself needing to refocus and get back to basics from time to time, but I’ve never given up, and that’s truly the biggest part of losing weight.  Never give up on yourself.  It may be difficult, and it may not always be fun, but it is so very worth it!

If you are currently doubting yourself, please know that it is so possible to make a positive and healthy change in your life! You can do anything you put your mind to, so lace up your shoes and get out the door!  You’ll be happy you did.

~Holly