I have recently heard an argument that seems to be getting louder and louder as time goes on. I don’t know if I am hearing it more because I am doing more research on different techniques to help people achieve their weight loss goals or if more people are actually talking about it. The argument is this: some people believe that those who are obese are unable to lose weight or maintain their weight loss in the long term because they don’t have the ability to commit and are not consistent with their individualized weight loss plan.
That is a pretty bold statement and rather judgmental. I am not a fan of labels or putting people into one category. Everyone has their own reasons why they became overweight. For people to judge and say that it is not possible to lose weight or maintain it because of commitment and consistency issues is a slap in the face to each and every person who is struggling with their weight, for those who have succeeded in weight loss and maintaining, and those who are trying to get the courage to take that first step.
Being overweight is hard enough, being obese is harder, and being super obese…there is just nothing to compare. It’s downright hard. The everyday activities that people take for granted are not a reality for many. Not to mention when they venture out into public they are subjected to stares, comments, and general unwarranted judgment by others. Then to hear the nay-sayers comments of it is not possible to lose the weight because of some preconceived notion that they are not committed or they don’t care for themselves. That is crap. It’s not fair. While there are some individuals who truly don’t care for themselves there are so many more who are seeking support. They don’t need to be torn down, they get that enough. Then to plant that seed of doubt that they can’t do it. It’s not fair. More than likely there is already fear and doubt running through their minds. I know my mind was filled with negative thoughts including self-doubt.
While yes, commitment plays an enormous role in weight loss I truly believe that those who need to lose a good amount of weight have commitment. Just not in the area that supports a healthy active lifestyle. They may be committed to the convenience of daily take out, or watching 4+ hours of television per night, parking close to the stores. They are committed to a sedentary lifestyle.
Yes consistency also plays a huge role in weight loss. However I believe it is unrealistic to expect anyone to be perfectly on target with any plan. Perfection is an unattainable goal. Yes, be consistent. Take one day at a time. Track everything by keeping a food and exercise log. Write it down, even things that were not part of the plan write it down. No food amnesia allowed. The reason is simple. At the end of the month it will be possible to take a look back and see the consistency of the exercise and the good choices. If there are more good days that is consistent, if there are more bad days that too is consistent. Either way it is a starting point. A place to build and grow. It will be possible to see exactly where the changes need to be made. Keeping a log allows the ability to track the progression of the journey. It’s not something to be thrown away at the end of the month. It is another tool to keep accountable.
The formula is simple. LiveFit Revolution says it the best: Commitment=Results.
The results come from whatever energy is put out. Let’s keep the energy positive and not bring anyone down. Everyone has the ability to lose weight. Everyone has the ability to maintain weight loss. The journey will not be perfect. Concentrate on the progress. Celebrate all achievements no matter how small they may seem… It all adds up.
In response to the argument that those who are obese are unable to lose weight or maintain their weight loss in the long term because they don’t have the ability to commit and are not consistent with their individualized weight loss plan… It’s all a matter of perspective isn’t it? They do have the ability to commit and they do have the ability to remain consistent. It’s all a matter of timing. These people have to want it; they have to be willing to put in the work. It is not easy, nor should it be. The personal growth that is achieved during a weight loss journey is remarkable. People become different. They shed themselves, including all of the baggage and become shiny and new. That is a scary prospect- becoming a new and improved person. I don’t blame anyone for not being able to be consistent all of the time or if their commitment level falters from time to time. It takes courage.
Nay-sayers… keep your mouths shut.
To those who have weight to lose. You can do it. Don’t listen to those nay-sayers. Listen to those who want to lift you up and support you. Listen to that voice within yourself that wants to make the change.
You are stronger than you think…both mentally and physically.
