Isabela Lukawski's Journal, 06 Mar 21

For starters......ignore the Critics! It's hard, I know, but at 330 and starting the journey back, I realized quickly that supportive people are NOT critical. They push a little here, prod a little there, and always in a positive way. If you check, I bet you will find those folks, and you will then make progress. I'm at 195 now and moving onward and downward.....WITH great support. Good Luck. Wayne L  

I made a list of my why things and put them in a jar. Everytime I want to give up I pull as many as I need to remember. Wishing you the best 

Have a plan. Ignore the critics. Or use it for motivation. I have meals frozen. If I cook I cook for more than 1 meal and I have a good variety. Salmon in foil in toaster oven one of my favs and done in 20 mins. Always know at least a day ahead what I’m putting down the gullet and while boring to some works just fine for me. 

Focus on something you want to accomplish with your weight loss, ie getting into that beautiful blazer, dress etc that’s sitting in your closet or bringing down your blood pressure . Just stay on the feeling better about yourself track, and how happy you will be when your weight is gone!!! We all have are ups and down. So, just acknowledge it and move on. You can do this!! 

Also when I'm in a period where I don't have time and I'm not motivated to workout or really cook, I try to pay attention to what I eat. I will get some frozen vegetables, greek yogurt and a lot of fruits. At least I don't gain weight while my motivation is down Hang in there!  

remember why you started in the first place 

Thanks for the honest sharing. I’d just say remind yourself of who you want to be and don’t beat yourself up if there are set backs. 

Try making some of your lunch and breakfast on sundays l find it's easyer like you when im tired l grab what l can to eat. 

What Type of Motivation Do You Have? Below you see four different responses to the following prompt: I am losing weight because… 1 I feel like I have no choice; others make me do it 2 I would feel bad about myself if I did not 3 It feels important to me personally to accomplish this goal 4 It is a challenge to accomplish my goal; because it is fun Please visit https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/thriving101/201506/weight-loss-motivation-secrets-staying-track-part-1 

we all must chose to suffer one of two types of pain. The pain of discipline or the pain of regret. Discipline weighs ounces; whereas regret weighs tons. this helps motivate me to persevere when exercising and eating healthy. 

when that happened to me batch cooking was my way out, one day of cooking lots of meals, then never have to think about it again - just grab a frozen meal and go! You are then sure that what you are eating is good for you. 

I FEEL you girl!!! That’s why I try my best to make meals or buy healthier ones ahead of time or on the day of. Drink more smoothies. This will also curb your appetite and make you feel full. Mmmm and don’t forget those energy balls with oats, almond butter, pumpkin seeds etc.... You got this!!!!’ 

I understand too well 

I’m so sorry you’re having a difficult time. A quote that helps me is “No mud, no lotus.” Beautiful lotus flowers grow from mud and muck. We as humans can do the same. We can take our hardships, and put our energy to good use to blossom. You will get through this. 

You are very special and only people like us struggling with our weight can understand how difficult loosing weight is. Don't let anyone stand in your way. You are beautiful and you CAN to do this for yourself 💜💙❤ 

Be the change that you seek. I would start by picking a free day to meal prep. Something you like, and can eat a bit repeatedly, or that can be adjusted with seasoning or simple sides to change it enough not to be boring. Have fresh fruit handy, and pretzels and hummus work as a low calorie treat in moderation. Life is busy, and our lives have so much convenience for food that we choose poorly. I think a crock pot is also a great investment/tool for change. Many one pot recipes available. As far as people criticizing weight, they suck. We are our own worst critics, so you need to decide where you stand and what you want to do. Those other people may be jealous or have their own struggles, so show them what can be done, really why not? Best of luck, you can do it. 

to the critics with 'opinions' just remind them gently "That's not helpful". I look in the mirror each day and tell myself I am a caring nurturing person and the person in the mirror deserves all my care and nurture because she's my best friend! I am still working on this one, not at my goal yet either, but this helps me. 

It’s a consistent progress, you will struggle with it. You will struggle with the mental battle in your head and you will struggle with motivation. The difference is you have the experience. And always remember your starting point. And always remember how far you came. And always remember how far you want to go. ✨1% better everyday✨ Enjoy the process! 

I focus on 5 pounds at a time because it is achievable. I also focus on where I started to show myself I’m doing well. I do NOT ever focus on where I’m going because that would look like so much I would feel it’s not achievable, I’m more into,WOW I lost 5 pounds, bet I can do it again 👍 

I take it one day at a time. Make a point of doing a workout. Even if it’s only 15! I measure and weigh in once a week. I remind myself that the weight didn’t come on instantly so it will take time to come off. Don’t beat yourself up and don’t listen to what others think about your weight loss journey.