I feel like I’ve been trying to lose weight forever. I lost the same 10 pounds probably 5 times.

What did it for me this time was a breakup. Throughout our relationship we were constantly going out to eat and drink. Before I knew it I was 5 lbs shy of the heaviest I’ve ever been.

Then, he broke up with me. I will say, heartbreak has probably been the best motivation I’ve ever had. But besides that, it’s been a lifestyle change, I think that’s what I’ve learned the most. I finally accepted I can’t just cut out all the junk food I love and restrict myself so intensely. It only causes me to relapse and give up.

So, I still eat the things I love, but in moderation. This has been huge. I don’t feel the need to go in on a gallon of ice cream, or inhale a sleeve of oreos. Counting calories also helped me realize just how much I was eating, even if I thought I was being “healthy.”

What has been huge for me is finding physical activities I actually enjoy, then it doesn’t feel like a chore to drag myself to the gym. I found I love cycling and hot yoga, they have done wonders for me. I also got into running again, which I stopped a while ago. This has also helped tremendously.

So, I’m down about 15 lbs from where I was at my near heaviest back in February. It’s been slow, but I’m getting there.

I would say the 2 best pieces of advice I have for you is everything in moderation and find physical activities you love. I never thought it would be that simple but it truly is.

Good luck in your journey!