Working through a plateau is tough; it is a trial of your patience. A setback in your progress can be even tougher, and it most certainly will test your motivation and commitment to your fitness goal. There are so many variables involved in each of your lives that it is important to be prepared for a possible setback, or at the very least prepared to work through it if it happens. In Lori’s case, she began her pursuit of living healthy during a very consistent part of her life, and she progressed steadily toward her weight loss goal as a result.
There were little blips in her life’s radar as she worked on losing weight, but nothing significant or consistent enough to throw her off-course. Lori ended up losing 70 pounds by the time summer had arrived, which was an incredible accomplishment. But a shift in her family’s once regular and predictable schedule changed drastically during the summer months, and as a result, Lori gained back some of the weight she had lost.
“With (my) vacations in the past month, it has been hard to work out much, so that hasn’t helped the situation,” said Lori. “I haven’t focused on myself, and I let life get in the way. Life didn’t change; it was how I handled it that changed. My setback was about 20 pounds (gained) when it was all said and done.”
Lori’s choice of words offers an interesting glimpse into her mind and the approach that she is taking regarding her setback. She isn’t worried or frustrated, and she understands that she is in control of her own success.
“Well, the biggest thing is that you can’t beat yourself up about any plateau or setback,” said Lori. “The weight that I put on didn’t come on in a week, a month or even a year. So it isn’t going to come off quickly; you need to just keep fighting every day. I know that this is my life and it needs to be a full lifestyle change.”
It is a lifestyle change that has opened new doors for Lori. She plays with her kids, and runs around with them in the yard. She is active with her family and the things they do. As she put it she is “no longer on the sidelines just watching.” She is participating.
…And she is not about to let that slip away.
Even after she gained back some of the weight, Lori was able to appreciate the benefits of her healthier and fitter body. It served as a reminder of her accomplishments, and that there is so many more exciting things to experience in her future.
“I was able to walk around Mackinaw Island; up around everything,” said Lori. “I couldn’t have done that before my weight loss and training. It was the best feeling!”
Follow Lori’s story to find out what she is doing to lose the 20 pounds she gained, and reach her final goal. There are no guarantees, but Lori has already proved she knows how to lose weight. So, don’t forget to leave her a word of encouragement, or inspire her and our community with your personal story of perseverance in the comments section below.
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Keep up the great work honey. I love you!
Your Husband
You are awesome and have accomplished much to be proud of! Keep going!
Hi Lori! I started getting serious about weight loss in April and dropped 30 lbs by August. Like you, I allowed life to get in my way, and I’ve put 15 of those pounds back on. Glad I got to read your story, I’ve re-committed to myself and I hope to read about your successes soon!
I can relate Lori! I am sitting in my doctors office to see her for a blood pressure check-up. I lost 49 pounds over the past two years and was taken off the blood pressure medicine in July. What a wonderful feeling, better than wearing two sizes smaller in clothing! Well, summer came, and vacation, and a new relationship… I was nervous to step on the scale because I know it is up..10 pounds. It is very difficult getting focused and enthused again about losing more weight but I know it is necessary. I wish you determination and success!!!
What a great story! It’s encouraged me to try again. Several years ago, I lost 50 pounds and became very fit through a LOT of training. But I moved away and, slowly lost my fitness mojo and put it all back on. Ugh. But I’m looking forward now, and will get back to work as soon as the Stevenson Ranch club opens. Keep blogging, Lori!
Thanks to for the story! I totally understand this.. I lost over 80 lbs and gained back 40 a result of health and life stresses. Getting back your motivation and keeping it going is harder this time around. It kills me that I let it get this out of hand because I have enjoyed my new fit self and now trying to get back the strength and stay motivated is harder then the first time but seeing stories like Lori and others helps me keep motivated and I take one day at a time and just do it…
Hi Lori,
My name is Rosa ,I was diagnosis with colon cancer in march.Thanks to god I’m ok,but to make along story short I need a word of in couragement. The doctor has ask me to loss forty pounds.So can you please let me know how to began.
If you are concerned about your blood pressure there are different types of medication you can take to help control or lower your pressure. You might try some lifestyle changes first before opting for medicine. Remember that sometimes medicine is the only way you might be able to lower it. Different lifestyle changes do not always work on their own. First you might consider your diet. Do you consider yourself a healthy eater? Do you think you have a pretty healthy diet? Your diet could be affecting your blood pressure. High amounts of salt and sodium intake can raise your blood pressure. Try to limit your salt intake and eat more fresh fruits and vegetables. If you love salt, consider substituting it with a different seasoning. There are so many different kinds of seasonings available you can easily find something to your liking…