My Reluctant Journey to Health and Self-Discovery

When I first started this weight loss journey, I was far from ready. Indecisive and unwilling to invest in any program, I had spent years trying to change my habits and work out, but consistency always eluded me. Even when the program was introduced to me, I resisted, preferring to spend my money on photography equipment instead of diets or gimmicks.

Reluctantly, I attended a consultation with my now-amazing coach, Donna. Despite thinking I knew everything I needed to do, I couldn’t make it happen alone. After finding a way to finance the program without affecting my photography budget, I agreed to give it a shot. Deep down, I feared failure. I had seen others succeed in the program, and if it didn’t work for me, I knew I was the problem. I wrote in my journal that I didn’t have what it took to lose weight and had resigned myself to a life of obesity, believing I might not live long enough to see my kids graduate or get married.

At the start of the program, I was on high blood pressure medication, weighing 391 pounds at my peak during COVID. The first week was tough, but I lost 12 pounds and felt a significant boost in energy. Remarkably, my blood pressure normalized so quickly that I never needed my medication again after that first week.

When I returned for a check-up two weeks later, having lost 22 pounds, my doctor was astonished by my progress. She took me off my blood pressure medication entirely. As the weeks passed, I confronted my unhealthy relationship with food. I realized that my eating habits were deeply tied to my emotions and self-worth. Food was my reward, my comfort, and breaking that cycle was a monumental step.

Gradually, I began to enjoy going to the gym, initially driven by the desire for faster results but eventually appreciating the strength and mental clarity it provided. Over six months, I experienced better sleep, clearer thoughts, and a newfound ability to engage in critical thinking. The gym became more than a place for physical improvement; it was where I found ideas and strategies for my business.

My journey transformed my perspective on health and fitness. It was no longer about numbers on a scale but about becoming a version of myself that I genuinely liked. The discipline I developed extended beyond my health habits, influencing every aspect of my life. I learned to stick with things, a skill I had struggled with previously.

This transformation brought numerous non-scale victories. I could fit into smaller clothes, no longer needed an extra plane seatbelt, and played more energetically with my kids. I even replaced over 100 clothing items and felt more confident and attractive.

Ultimately, this journey wasn’t just about losing weight. It was about gaining control over my life and realizing my worth. The program provided tools and structure, but the mindset shift made the most significant difference. I learned to say no to short-term indulgences and yes to my future self.

I can't imagine where I’d be if I hadn’t reluctantly agreed to the program. This journey gave me control, freedom, and a newfound appreciation for myself. It’s incredible how much can change when you prioritize your health and embrace discipline.