You have probably all heard the expression, Comparison is the thief of joy. And most of the time, I would agree with you. Except when it comes to a weight loss journey. Comparisons are sometimes the things that keep you going. Sometimes they show you how far you have come. Sometimes they are that little bit of extra motivation you need to complete a goal.
I think comparisons of others can be harmful and hurtful to yourself. Just don’t do it.
But…
Comparisons of yourself when you are on a weight loss journey can be really inspiring.
The other day I got home from work and I wanted to take a picture of myself – actually Jeremy took it, but it still applies. I was feeling good, and I wanted to see what others saw when they looked at me. I had no idea that I would be looking at the person on the other side of the lens. I loved the way I looked. I felt beautiful and powerful. I felt strong and confident. These are things I haven’t felt in a long, long time.
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Then, I wanted to see a side-by-side comparison of myself from before Weight Watchers to that new picture. And holy crap. I am in shock that this girl is the same person.
The picture on the right was taken in February 2016. I felt pretty in my LuluRoe dress…but wow. I have lost a little over 20lbs since I joined Weight Watchers May 31, 2016. I can finally tell a difference in how I used to look. My face is where I can see the biggest difference. It used to be so puffy…not any more.
Side note: The dress I am wearing in my recent picture (it’s from Anthropologie and I bought it over a year ago) is actually a little bit big on me. I couldn’t believe it when I noticed that. I was in the bathroom at work, and you can see my bra if I lift my arms. I’ve never had that problem before. Victory!
As good as I feel right now, I still have 10-15lbs to go before I hit my goal. I have a soft goal in mind, but I haven’t really decided what my goal will be yet.
Weekly Update
- Starting Weight on May 31, 2016 – 191 lbs
- Current Weight on August 5, 2016 – 168 lbs
- Total Weight Loss: 24 lbs
This is, by far, the best comment I have ever gotten! Thank you so much for your sweet words. And congratulations on joining Weight Watchers! If you work the program, it will work for you. I had great success with SmartPoints (I can’t follow Freestyle since I am pregnant), and I am sure you will find success as well. It’s not always easy, but it really does work. One piece of advice: Don’t put too much pressure on yourself to lose weight each week. It will ebb and flow, so you have to just allow it to happen. You can always email me if you want more advice too.
I have to tell you, your blog is what made me commit to WW tonight for the first time! I was going back and forth all week about it, feeling overwhelmed by having to track everything. But when I saw your before/after pictures I was inspired. I’m starting out around your starting weight. I desperately want to lose some weight before a big family vacation in July, when last summer I felt so insecure the whole vacation. I wish you could be my coach! I’ll be back for meal ideas!
Thank you so much Mary. I have been loving this experience and this journey. It’s been pretty amazing so far.
Lookin’ good, lady!
Thank you so much. I am still working toward my goal, but it’s been awesome to see before and after pictures side by side. I had no idea I used to look like that…I guess I never saw it before. So this was the first I have really seen myself in my new body. It’s been a great journey!
You look great! You’re completely right, sometimes comparisons are good.