Ugh…. I guess we should talk about the elephant in the blog… Ok, so maybe you’ve noticed, but in case you didn’t, I haven’t posted a What I Ate Wednesday for quite a few weeks. Starting at the beginning of this year I talked about my plan for losing a couple pounds in a slow and sustainable way. I shared what tools I was using, how my progress was going then I just stopped.
There’s a couple half ass excuses I could make about why I stopped but it comes down to one reason. I haven’t lost much weight and I’ve been struggling with how to write about it.
Breakfast
Hard Boiled Egg, Perfect Bar
But I really missed writing WIAW’s because more than any post these feel like I’m able to connect with you the most. I love hearing from you and these posts always get the most interaction. Basically, I miss ya.
When I first started things were humming along, I had lost a couple pounds and it wasn’t too much of a stretch. I thought “ok, this will be pretty painless.”
Lunch
Left over zooodles, gnocci and magic green sauce (recipe from Pinch of Yum)
Then I just stopped. At first I thought, ok no biggie just keep on keeping on. But really there’s been absolutely no movement on that scale despite being pretty consistent with tracking, following a challenging exercise program, all the normal jazz.
I thought about throwing in the towel. To be honest, I’m really happy with who I am inside and out. I don’t neeeeeed to lose any weight. I feel good. However, there’s this thing in me, I can’t quite describe it, that says “this is a challenge, push yourself.” That certainly DOES NOT mean I will use any unhealthy weight loss methods. Been there, done that. That chapter’s closed.
Snacks
Square Bar, Banana Almond Butter Muffin, Post-Workout Smoothie (Chocolate Protein Powder, Banana & Almond Milk)
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Rather, my real driving force is the desire to be the best version of myself. To find ways to become more me. Weight loss is not the goal, but a single measurement tool. What I’m doing feels bigger. Can I mentally shift how I move, how I eat, how I think about health, wellness, balance, strength, to be a better me? Can I challenge my habits that don’t serve me. Can I be more mindful about the foods I consume and their impact on my body and my life.
The answer is yes. I have a feeling that this is going to be harder than I thought. Not hard in the ways most weight loss is portrayed. I don’t plan on using restriction, sacrifice or guilt to guide me. Rather it’s endurance, consistency and strength in how I move, think and eat.
Dinner
Burrata Caprese Salad (yes. it was amazing) & Calamari
In any meaningful success I’ve achieved that has brought me joy and a feeling of growth, it’s come from falling down more times than I can count. This whole “scale won’t budge” is a test. And boy do I love a good challenge.
I promise I’ll check in more often. With the good the bad and the ugly. On the bright side, I am feeling good in my jeans (one of my favorite measurement tools.) Nothing dramatic just more “ok this actually are comfortable instead of squeezing the bejeezus out of my thighs.”
Your Turn:
- Have you ever plateaued in weight loss or in a different resolution? What did you do to bust through it?
I admire you for being candid and understanding exactly what your mission is and how you will achieve it (and pushing yourself), which goes beyond just weight loss. I think I’m coming to Nantucket just for that calamari.
Totally – it’s finding those boundaries and pushing yourself in all sorts of aspects of life. Also come on ova any time! xo
I am on the same page as you right now…i have gained few pounds but at the same time. i am enjoying the way i celebrate food, exercise. I am happy with it but at the same time, i want to look a certain way and i dont..its a challenge but as long as we are making smaller changes towards better health, i think thats the important thing.
Definitely having health as the main priority will has been my goal – plus, that’s what this is all about – healthy body, healthy mind, healthy social life – No scale can measure all those things.
” To be honest, I’m really happy with who I am inside and out. ” THAT is what you should focus on. The scale only shows a number. It in no way quantifies the genuine, beautiful, courageous, and KICKASS woman you are.
But that’s just my two cents.
Thanks Brittany! That really means so much xoxo
I am so happy that you posted to this! I think many people (myself included) can relate right now. I know it’s not always easy to talk about, so I really admire your transparency and realness. Oh, and, can you feed me?? YUM!
Thanks Bailee! This time of year has always been kinda tricky for me personally motivation and staying consistent but sometimes it helps to just put it out there – that way I can get back on the horse.
I’ve plateaued before, so I had to re-evaluate my workout routine and the foods I was eating and take that first uncertain step into change. It was so terrifying at first, but I felt the same way you did: keep trying to be the best version of myself. Being 100% honest with yourself is the best way to combat a plateau. You’re a rockstar Georgie, and I agree with Christina about that calamari…I’m coming!!!
It’s so comforting knowing I’m not alone! Definitely taking that time now to take one step back, re-evaluate so I can come back stronger. I’m just so lucky that I have a rad girl-gang for support xoxo
I’ve been there in so many different ways when I start out so excited about a goal and later figure out that I had it all wrong. It’s not that “failed your challenge” or anything, but just that your challenge wasn’t the right way to go about it in the first place. So I’m so happy that you figure out what’s right for you and I think the exact same thing is right for me! I’ve been up over 5 or so pounds this season and honestly I reeeeeallly don’t love it, but I’m so healthy and I’m eating a lot of really healthy food so I’d hate to change anything!
Totally! We go into these new chapters expecting our bodies to behave like a smooth liner graph and forget to give our complex bodies the patience and respect they deserve. So if it takes only losing a pound or two a month then so be it.
Always love and appreciate your honesty, G. Plus your mindset behind this process is spot on.
Thanks Em! <3 That means everything coming from you. Let's start the #keepingit100club and call it a day 😉
Your honesty is so refreshing. It’s funny, I feel like anytime I have been focused on losing weight nothing has happened, but when I put my attention on other things in my life and am less obsessed with what I’m eating, that’s when I often lose weight.
To be honest, that might be my strategy moving forward. Sometimes I overthink it and actually end up eating more as a result
All of this food looks delicious and that calamari… mmm. I can totally relate to all of this in so many ways. A few months after starting to run and eat better a few years ago I hit a plateu and I wasn’t sure what to do differently. I enjoy reading your thoughts with this because I’m with you on it!
I’ve so been there obviously with this current situation but also running. Sometimes you hit a point where working with a coach of some sort or even an accountability partner can be really helpful to help put things in perspective and give good feedback.
I know when I plateau that it is time to change things up! And it is time to change up the workouts and the EATS…I know how to do the workouts, but when it comes to the food I just look at what I am eating…If there is too much sugar or processed foods, it is time to eat whole foods…I also reach out to friends who are nutritionists for support, advice, and guidance. I’m always here to help if you need some help! XOXO
Totally – so often for me little bad habits slowly creep in so taking that step back to re-evaluate is so important.
Love you for being so real in this post. Weight loss is definitely a tough game, and there are TONS of factors. Maybe you already know this but I’ll say it anyways… while the scale is a useful measuring tool, don’t focus on the number. I weigh probably a good 5-6 more pounds right now than I did this time last year, because I am leaner and put on more muscle. Did the jump in the scale alarm me? Of course it did, initially. But then I got over it and realized I feel better, and can see more muscle tone, and overall feel leaner too, so I know deep down that number doesn’t mean much. Again, the scale can be a good source for measuring, but don’t let the “I’ve only lost X much weight, why the heck can’t I lose anymore?” stress you out too much. There are SO many other factors. And that shit takes time to see, physical changes that is. You got this, seriously. I’m always up for chatting about fitness and macro-nutrition if you’re looking for another ear. xo
I might totally take you up on that because I’d love to learn more about fitness and macro-nutrition, especially because I struggle as a vegetarian to find a variety of protein sources consistently. I’m trying to take a “long run” mentality on this one, knowing that it’s not really a weight loss goal per say but just a drive to be at my best (and figure out what that even means.)
YAS, girl, no worries. I am in the SAME boat. Had so much motivation at the beginning of the year to stick with a meal plan and exercise plan and guess what? I just CAN’T eat the same shit every day and I can’t stick to a workout plan. Maybe I have commitment issues. But, I’m not happy without the variety and I think it’s important that we find that balance. Maybe instead of taking 12 weeks to lose a few pounds, it might take a year. But hey, you’re in it 4 the long run, right?? :)) Great post!!
Hahah this is probably one of my favorite comments ever. This is definitely a “long run” weight loss program 😉 I feel you- I definitely get antsy with most things after the 4 week mark. Knowing that I might just have to plan strategic “shake ups” (whatever that means) food/exersize wise
I have to say, I appreciate how candid you are and open! Weight is such a tricky question and add in media + comparison and we’ve got a lovely trifecta. I have to remind myself that weight can be a number and it’s also important to find value in ourselves, what we bring to the table, etc. 🙂
Oh totally – there are so many outlets telling us how our size is what our value is determined on as women which is no where near the truth. I just keep reminding myself that this is a personal journey and the most important thing is to be myself and know myself because in the past I’ve gotten lost along the way.
Thanks for being so open and honest about this! It’s definitely not easy to address sensitive topics, and I think we all appreciate that. I’ve been up against a lot of work-related plateaus. How do I move up? Is this really what I want to do? Do I really enjoy this position anymore? So many things to think about. Sometimes it’s hard to feel stuck. My mom always told me to think about what makes me the happiest and then turn that into a job–somehow, haha. We’re working on it… 🙂 Thanks again for this post!
I’ve SO been there with work (which is why I eventually quit and am starting a whole different chapter) so you’re definitely not alone there. I know for me, it feels better just to know I’m not alone, so if a post of mine can help someone else feel that way then this whole blog thang is doing it’s job. Xo
I love your determination and desire to be better mentally, which is the true goal for so many of us. There are so many more useful tools for measuring our health! Also, I’m kind of all about that delicious chocolate protein shake.
So true Sarah! While one of the measurement tools is not showing progress right now, I think in a lot of ways I’m still making progress. Plus I’m just determined not to quit.
You’ve got such a great attitude and I think that seeing it as trying to be the best version of you, so you feel good, is the right way to go about it. Also, burrata and (grilled) calamari is my jam.
It was so delish and totally worth the food baby that ensued
Thanks for keeping it real, girl.
It sounds like you’re doing it right; even if your body feels it’s at a good weight and the scales don’t budge, I think you will feel the transformation in other ways.
It’s easy to give up but I admire you for admitting your struggles and continuing on!
Thank you so much Catherine for your kind words and support <3
I’m currently at my weight loss plateau but I’m pretty comfortable with myself inside and out so I’m not as concerned. I mean I would love some abs to pop out magically (who wouldn’t?) but I don’t want to restrict certain foods or make sacrifices because the truth is that I just love food and the social aspect of it. Instead, I’m trying to be more mindful of how much nut butter I add to my smoothies or snack less often after dinner on the Girl Scout Cookies (thanks a lot mom….). I think one of the things that helped me lose weight initially without really trying was signing up for a race or mixing up my workouts. It kept my body guessing what I was going to do next. I love your honesty in this post!
It sounds like we’re totally in the same spot. There’s no rush here which is what I think can help keep things healthy and maintainable. <3
Good for you for remembering that even if you want to lose weight so bad, its not worth doing it in an unhealthy way. I would say my weight loss has somewhat plateaued. By I am in the same boat as you.. i dont NEED to lose weight. Would it be nice? Yes. If I wanted to lose weight I could easily cut down on my food intake but I am loving the food right now so looks like I’ll be staying where I am for a little bit. 🙂
You’re totally right. Plus the only one who will probably really notice or care is me, and I can control how I feel sooo there’s no rush. One day at a time one pound at a time.
It’s refreshing to see someone being so open and honest with their journey. I’m sure many will be able to relate to you for that!
Thank you Megan! Always try to keep it real even when it’s awkward and less glamorous. I’m just so grateful I have a community who is so kind and supportive <3
NEEDED this today. In the same boat. I like lost a couple pounds then it just… stopped. I think I need to focus on everything else in my life and not worry about the weight because maybe when I stop obsessing it will come off.
I feeeeel you. I’m thinking that might have to be my new strategy because otherwise I’ll just dwell and over analyze each bite which is the worst feeling.
Love your honesty Georgie. Don’t throw in the towel! We are all on different journeys with our health and our weight and that is what is so beautiful about this world. YOU are the only person with your body and you will always be the only person with that body. Aint that incredible? That gives you full permission to not compare yourself to the progress other people are making because you cannot compare two things that do not correlate to one another. Your body was made for your life and the incredible being that you are. Just by making healthier choices, you’re showing a lot of love to yourself and that is something I commend you for. You should be proud of yourself, regardless of what the scale says.
Also, if you’re doing a challenging exercise program, theres a good chance your gaining muscle! Or, I’ve heard in some instances that it can make you retain water when you start upping you’re exercise regime.
On a completely random side note: thank you for introducing magic green sauce into my life.
Sending lots of love your way!
I love so many things about this comment but the phrase “your body was made for your life” may become one of my new mantras. So powerful and true <3
I think the meat measurement tool is feeling good in your jeans. Glad you are at least there, and keep up the hard work 🙂 <3
True that!
I love how open and honest you are in this post. I think we can all relate to a weight plateau (I know that I did!) so I hope you don’t feel like you need to hide it from us! We’re your sisters in this and are all here to support you. I’m happy to hear that you’ve found happiness in this journey and hope the scale not budging doesn’t deter you. Scales suck anyway- just go by how you feel and how your clothes are fitting!
Thank you so much Gretchen. I really do feel so supported by this community which makes being open 1000x easier.
Thanks for being so open and honest! I haven’t seen the scale go down much this year and my goal is to lose 35 pounds by my 30th birthday in 8 months (this October). Consistency is key and it’s great you are feeling good in your jeans!
Yes, consistency has seemed to be theme that’s been popping up more and more. Those little things (good and bad) really do add up.
I gave up the weight loss game and I’m so much happier for it. I struggled with disordered and restrictive eating for a while and I was miserable. Now I have the freedom to eat anything I like. I have found that it can be easy to go overboard with treating myself. I like your attitude of eating more mindfully.
It can certainly be a vicious cycle and the best thing you can do for your health is understand yourself more and why you need to make the choices you do. So happy you’re free from that cycle <3
Have you tried intermittent fasting? It’s the only way I got the last ten lbs of baby weight off after my weight loss stalled. There are all different variations. I did the one that involved skipping breakfast basically and also I worked out in a fasting state. It’s important to focus on nutrient density for the remaining meals when trying this and it’s not a forever approach. To maintain I cut back to only doing this a few days a week. Also, my workouts were interval training types (HIIT and Tabata). This combo teaches your body to burn fat for fuel. I don’t think you could try this and NOT lose weight. Hope this helps!
First off, cheers to feeling good in your jeans. Feeling comfy and loving how your clothes fit is the best feeling. I love that you are in this to be the strongest, best version of yourself. That’s what really matters. I would guess you’re building some awesome muscle which is why the scale is being so stubborn. You got this girl.
Ashley posted a great article about how complicated the energy in energy out equation is and I’m sure there are variables at work that I can’t control all of. Alas, I’ll just have to keep truckin’
I completely can relate to this. I have tried to hard to love my body and be okay with the way I look, but I know I have gained weight and I want to lose about 10 lbs (without going into a huge diet/calorie counting craze.) However, I struggle with the balance of eating enough (so I won’t binge- my biggest issue) and eating to lose the weight. I am trying to find this balance and it’s so. Hard.
I totally feel ya, finding that balance can be so tough
I think every weightloss journey hits a plateau at some point. When I hit mine it meant changing up what I ate and how I worked out. Eventually my body adjusted to running the miles I was and the pounds stopped coming off as fast. Hang in there Georgie!
Thanks Kristin! It’s nice to know I’m not alone in this.
This is really just to say I think you’re fabulous and I have so much respect for your honesty and totally salute your approach to this all. I’m intrigued by RISE and am gonna check it out (I read the post this one linked to from earlier this year) — whenever I’ve tried to lose weight by following a meal plan, I immediately start resenting it. But yes, I just want to say that I feel you about balancing prioritizing listening to your body, and also wanting to lose a bit of weight.
And you’ve also re-motivated me to restart Kayla’s 12-week BBG program. I started a while and stopped halfway through, and in this post you’ve just completely articulated my squeamish feelings about stopping — “However, there’s this thing in me, I can’t quite describe it, that says “this is a challenge, push yourself” — AND my urge to restart and this time finish it — “Can I mentally shift how I move, how I eat, how I think about health, wellness, balance, strength, to be a better me? Can I challenge my habits that don’t serve me. .” It’s about following through to say hey I’m worth following through on, I think.
Anyway — I just think you and your blog and wonderful voices on the Interwebs and I’m sending you hugs!
Omgosh yes! You put into words perfectly. Loving yourself is about knowing that you’re worth taking care of AND being challenged. It’s finding that right balance, knowing you won’t get it right and still trying anyway. Thank you so much for the thoughtful comments and if you ever need someone as an accountability “buddy” I’m ya gurl <3
Oh man I’d love an accountability “buddy,” and just to connect with another 20-something nut butter fiend. 🙂 I’m on Instagram as sheisfierce_tiu if that’s handy, or I’ll probably be lurking here, too. 🙂
Awesome! Totally adding you because insta is my favorite <3
Yes, God has made you with your body and you also have a different journey from anybody else. You won’t be judged for trying to lose a few pounds. It seems like you have a really healthy attitude about it. And you TOTALLY got me onto Squarebars. I just wish that they were cheaper. ;(