I'm only 18 years old, but in the past three years, I've overcome an amazing feat: losing 100
pounds. I topped the scale at 230-235
pounds when I was merely 15, and now, at 5 feet, 7 1/2 inches, stand at just under 140
pounds. I maybe have five
pounds to lose, and it's all in my stomach. I have a heavier upper
body with skinny legs, and it bothers me. A lot. I've been so distressed with bad
body image and low self-esteem, having been obese since young childhood, that it hinders everyday life. I still have fire in me; I still want to get rid of my stomach. I know it is feasible, but I'm afraid if I continue the way I have, with this horrible mentality of obsession with food, numbers, exercise,
body image, etc., I will live my life unsatisfied and insecure.
I love the way I eat (super healthy, yummy food) and I love exercise and how it makes me feel accomplished and strong. But just because I'm losing weight doesn't mean I have to dwell on it throughout the day. I want to simultaneously be happy with who I am and fulfilled in life, despite whether I'm unhappy with my
body. The latter shouldn't outweigh other components of life. I know all this, and I'm trying to put it in practice, but I'm finding it extremely difficult. I worry about whether losing the last of my weight will solve my problem. Will I really be happy? So, will all this
stress and hard work prove useless? I can't stop thinking and worrying!
Any words of encouragement or advice?
