My Weight Loss Buddies

My aunt forwarded me an email that contained the line:

"Aspire to Inspire before you Expire!"

I really like that message! Since posting my Weight Loss Mantra, I've gotten some great comments, questions, and commiserations. It really helps me to know that I'm not alone in my weight loss journey. I hope I can help inspire some people to lose weight, or just help others realize that they're not alone. Other people are struggling with the same problems. This is a tough road for anyone, and if you need a weight loss buddy, I'm here for you!

A friend of mine commented that when you ask people how they lost weight, they give you a very vague answer. It seems that if you've lost weight, how you did it becomes a closely guarded secret. I don't like that. Share the love! Tell what worked and what didn't work for you. Even if it doesn't work for me, it might work for someone else, and it will at least give me some ideas.

This is why, if you're trying to lose weight, a Weight Loss Buddy can really help you achieve your goals. Pick people who are as motivated, or more motivated than you. Choose a person who will share their failures as well as their successes. If possible, find a person who can work out with you as well. If you are just starting out, find a buddy who is also ready to take the weight loss plunge with you. Recruiting close family members is always a plus. They will be around to help motivate you, they can exercise with you, and they can help shield you from temptation (like the dessert tray). If you don't have family or friends as an option, try joining an online weight loss forum.

That said, I want to thank my Weight Loss Buddies for joining me on the journey to a Healthy Lifestyle. You help me in so many ways!

* When I give in to cravings, you remind me that I have strength to stay in control of myself.
* When I have super food-guilt because I overate, you tell me that one moment of weakness does not make my entire life a failure.
* When I am stressed out and mindlessly munching, you help bring perspective to my situation.
* On days when I my self esteem is low and I feel fat and ugly, you show me what I am worth and remind me of all that I have accomplished.
* When I have no idea what to eat or cook, you come up with fabulous, tasty ideas for new foods to keep my mouth happy.
* You find some great resources, and share awesome information, recipes, and ideas on food, exercise, and life in general.
* You share your experiences with me, and help me realize that I am not alone in how I feel and what I am going through.
* You help keep me motivated and strong.

Just having another person to chat with, or bounce ideas off of, can help you stay focused on your weight loss goals. And remember, if you think you're alone, I am always ready to be a weight loss cheerleader! I aspire to inspire!