My Weight Loss Journey: From Doubt to Determination

Weight loss is so much more than numbers on a scale. For me, it’s about reclaiming my health, rebuilding my confidence, and showing myself that I am capable of achieving the goals I set. My journey hasn’t been linear, and it certainly hasn’t been easy. But each step forward—no matter how small—has been a step closer to becoming the best version of myself.

The Starting Point

My weight loss journey truly began in 2023, after years of feeling stuck. At my highest weight, I was 258 pounds. I felt uncomfortable in my body, frustrated with my lack of progress, and unsure if I could ever regain the fitness I once had. What made it even harder was dealing with a rare autoimmune disease that left me physically and emotionally drained.

But deep down, I knew I couldn’t keep living like this. I wanted to feel strong again. I wanted to enjoy the activities I used to love and take back control of my health. So, in late 2023, I committed to making 2025 the year I transform my body and mindset.

The Goal

My ultimate goal is to lose 70 pounds by September 2025, bringing me to around 163 pounds. This number isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about reaching a weight where I feel healthy, energetic, and confident. At a minimum, I’m aiming to hit 180 pounds by my wedding in September, giving me the opportunity to walk down the aisle feeling my absolute best.

The Plan

To achieve this, I’ve developed a plan that focuses on sustainability and overall health. Here are the key components:

1. Alternate Day Fasting (ADF):
   Fasting has become a cornerstone of my weight loss journey. On fasting days (Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays), I stick to water or protein shakes. On eating days (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday), I prioritize one nutrient-dense meal, focusing on protein and fermented foods to support gut health.

2. Strength Training and Movement:
   While I’m rebuilding my fitness level, I’m focusing on strength training three times a week and walking daily. Movement not only supports weight loss but also boosts my mental health and energy levels.

3. Tracking Progress:
   I’ve set monthly milestones to track my progress and keep myself accountable. By breaking my larger goal into smaller targets, I can celebrate wins along the way and adjust my plan as needed.

4. Healing My Hormones and Gut:
   My autoimmune disease means I need to take extra care of my body. Healing my gut and regulating my hormones are top priorities, which is why I’m incorporating fermented foods, reducing processed foods, and focusing on whole, anti-inflammatory ingredients.

The Challenges

Like any journey, this one hasn’t been without its challenges. Fasting isn’t always easy, especially on days when I’m stressed or tired. And some weeks, the scale doesn’t move as quickly as I’d like. But I’ve learned to shift my focus from instant results to long-term progress.

Another challenge has been rebuilding my mindset. After years of feeling like I’d failed at weight loss, I’ve had to remind myself that setbacks don’t define me. What matters is getting back up and continuing to move forward.

The Deeper Why

This journey isn’t just about weight. It’s about proving to myself that I am capable of achieving what I set my mind to. It’s about walking into my wedding day feeling radiant and confident. It’s about healing my body so I can enjoy a long, healthy life with my husband, my family, and my future children. And most importantly, it’s about reclaiming my joy and showing myself the love and care I deserve.

A Work in Progress

As of today, I’ve already made significant progress. I’m down from 258 pounds to 230 pounds, and while there’s still a way to go, I’m proud of how far I’ve come. I’m rediscovering my passion for fitness and feeling more like myself every day.

If you’re on your own weight loss journey, know this: it’s not about being perfect. It’s about persistence. Every step you take, no matter how small, brings you closer to your goals. Give yourself grace, celebrate the wins, and don’t let setbacks derail you. You’re stronger than you think, and you’re capable of so much more than you realize.

Here’s to 2025 being the year of transformation—for me, and for anyone else ready to take the leap. Let’s do this together.