I Lost 83 Pounds in 18 Months but Here’s the Ugly Truth No One Tells You

Losing 83 pounds sounds like a dream, right?

And sure, on many days, it feels like that — a testament to hard work, determination, and sheer willpower. But let’s get real for a second. Writing about weight loss isn’t all sunshine and roses. It’s tough to admit, but there’s a darker side too. The internet is full of tales about how great life is after weight loss. But that’s not the whole truth.

Facing the Truth

The biggest obstacle in the road is admitting that I was once overweight. After losing 82 pounds, it’s still hard to discuss my struggles. I procrastinated and was lazy, which delayed my healthier choices. To reach my goal in 18 months, I had to lose 83 lbs. I weighed 225 lbs. and wanted to be 142 lbs. This meant facing some harsh truths and battling inner demons. While progress photos make me proud, those “before” shots still make me cringe.

Five Harsh Realities of Becoming Fit

Here’s the lowdown on the five harsh realities of becoming fit after being overweight:

1- It Takes Time

By reading the first few lines of this article, many people will get inspired. That’s a good thing, right?

The answer is YES!

But, they read the 18-month timeline. It doesn’t sound too hard. That is the main problem.

Weight loss is a slow and steady journey like it should be. I waited weeks without noticing progress. I thought I’d get used to my new reflection. But I still get a jolt of surprise when I catch my figure in the mirror. My brain still clings to the old image — the size XXL instead of size M.

When I exercise, I still think with my old fat mindset. I instinctively doubt my abilities and assume I can’t handle new challenges.

2- Shopping and Eating Are Still Complex

Shopping for clothes? I still gravitate toward outfits that hide instead of flaunt.

Deciding on dinner? I skip it in favor of my usual healthy choice. Shedding the weight is one thing; shedding the fat identity is a whole different ball game.

3- Weight Loss and Self-Love:

Back when I was overweight, I thought that losing weight would mean instant perfection. How naive, right? I pictured a body with refined muscles, looks, and limitless potential. But now, even at my ideal weight, I see how far I am from perfect. My body isn’t as firm as I’d hoped, and I’m still working on toning. My skin isn’t teenager-tight, and guess what? It never will be.

I look better, fitter, and stronger. But I didn’t get body acceptance and self-love with my weight loss. I still need to tackle my traumas and heal. Weight loss failed to transform my self-esteem. The best thing in this journey is that I didn’t blame my weight anymore. Back then, I used to blame anything on my weight; I mean ANYTHING. And I know I’m not alone in this; most people use the blame game to shield themselves.

4- Not a One-Time Thing:

It’s a sad truth — being overweight often means low expectations. People see you as lazy and lacking discipline. But once you’re fit, the expectations skyrocket. You’re supposed to stay fit, make healthy choices, and jump through every hoop life throws at you.

At team-building events, no one expected me to run or climb. They saw a lazy, incapable person, and I didn’t bother proving them wrong. Now, as a skinny person, I face pressure to maintain my fitness, willpower, and mental health. I struggle to distinguish my true priorities from external influences.

5- The Never-Ending Process:

Gaining or losing 5 pounds when your fat is no big deal. No one notices. But when you’re skinny, 5 pounds feels monumental. Cheat days? Forget about them. Every choice matter, every day. This weight management journey never ends.

I’ve learned that discipline is key, but it’s exhausting. For birthdays, holidays, and parties, there’s always a choice. It must be the healthy one if you want to stay on track. This kind of thinking was foreign to me before, and it’s daunting to realize this is forever.

Loss of That Extra Strength:

Back when I was fat and fit, moving heavy objects was a breeze. My body weight gave me extra strength. Now, I struggle with tasks that were once easy. I’m doing strength training, but it’s not the same as the brute force I used to have.

People offer help now, assuming I’m weak. As a bigger girl, I never got that kind of help. My size made others see me as capable. Now, I’m perceived as weaker, and it doesn’t feel good.

Just Remember:

Weight loss is a journey with its own set of challenges. It’s great, but it’s not the fairy tale everyone imagines. Whether your overweight or skinny, life has its difficulties. Ignoring them isn’t healthy. Whatever you’re going through is valid, and you’re the only one who can judge what’s right for you.