I Shed 82 Pounds — Here’s the Harsh Reality Nobody Talks About

Losing 82 pounds seems like a fantasy, right? Many days, it truly feels that way — a reflection of hard work, resolve, and determination. However, let’s be honest for a moment. Writing about weight loss isn’t all about the positives. It’s tough to acknowledge, but there’s a more challenging aspect as well. The internet is filled with stories about how wonderful life becomes after shedding pounds. But that’s not the complete picture.

Confronting Reality

The greatest challenge is admitting that I was once overweight. After dropping 82 pounds, discussing my journey remains difficult. I often procrastinated and was lazy, which hindered my path to healthier choices. I aimed to lose 82 lbs within 18 months, starting at 225 lbs and targeting 143 lbs. This journey required facing some harsh realities and confronting my inner struggles. Although progress photos make me proud, those “before” images still evoke discomfort.

Five Tough Truths About Getting Fit

Here’s the scoop on the five tough truths of getting fit after being overweight:

Patience is Key!

Initially, many readers might feel inspired by the opening lines of this article. That’s a positive response, right? Absolutely! However, upon reading about the 18-month duration, it might not seem so daunting. That’s where the issue lies. Weight loss is a gradual process, as it should be. I spent weeks not seeing any visible progress. I assumed I would eventually get accustomed to my new appearance. Yet, I still experience surprise when I see my reflection. My mind still holds onto the old image — the size XXL instead of M. During workouts, I often revert to my previous mindset, doubting my abilities and believing I can’t tackle new challenges.

Shopping and Dining Decisions

When it comes to shopping for clothes, I still tend to choose outfits that conceal rather than showcase. And when it’s time to decide on dinner, I often opt for my usual healthy meal instead of exploring new options. Losing weight is one challenge, but shedding the identity of being overweight is an entirely different struggle.

Weight Loss vs. Self-Acceptance

In my heavier days, I believed that losing weight would grant me instant perfection. How naive, right? I envisioned a body with sculpted muscles, attractive looks, and endless possibilities. Yet, now that I’m at my ideal weight, I realize how far I am from perfection. My body isn't as toned as I envisioned, and I’m still working towards that. My skin isn’t as tight as it once was, and it likely never will be. While I look better, fitter, and stronger, I didn’t gain self-love or body acceptance through weight loss. I still have to confront my past traumas and heal. Losing weight did not magically boost my self-esteem. The silver lining in this journey is that I no longer blame my weight for everything. I used to attribute all my problems to being overweight; I know many share this tendency to deflect blame.

Not a One-Time Fix

It’s a harsh reality — being overweight often comes with low expectations. People view you as lazy and undisciplined. However, once you reach a fit state, those expectations soar. You’re expected to stay in shape, make healthy decisions, and tackle whatever life throws your way. At team-building activities, no one anticipated that I would run or climb; they perceived me as lazy and unfit, and I didn’t feel the need to prove them wrong. Now, as a slimmer individual, I face the pressure to sustain my fitness, willpower, and mental well-being. I find it challenging to separate my true priorities from external expectations.

The Ongoing Journey

Gaining or losing 5 pounds when you’re overweight goes unnoticed. But when you’re slim, 5 pounds feels monumental. Cheat days? They’re a thing of the past. Every choice counts, every single day. This journey of weight management is endless. I’ve come to understand that discipline is essential, but it can be draining. For celebrations and gatherings, there is always a choice to make. If I want to stay on track, it must be the healthy option. This mindset was once alien to me, and it’s daunting to accept that this is now a lifelong commitment.

Loss of Former Strength

When I was heavier, moving heavy items felt effortless. My body weight provided extra strength. Now, I find myself struggling with tasks that were once simple. I’m engaging in strength training, but it doesn’t compare to the raw power I once had. People now offer assistance, assuming I’m weak. As a larger woman, I never received such help; my size led others to see me as strong. Now, I’m viewed as weaker, and it’s a disheartening feeling.

Final Thoughts

Weight loss is a journey filled with its own set of challenges. While it can be rewarding, it’s far from the fairy tale many envision. Regardless of your size, life presents its own difficulties. Ignoring these challenges is not a healthy approach. Whatever you’re experiencing is valid, and ultimately, you are the best judge of what is right