When you attempt to lose weight, every victory (no matter its size) is huge and provides a huge boost in motivation and self-esteem. These victories are what keep me going. Over the last month or so, I’ve learned there are a few things that give me a great feeling, provide the best boost to my morale and propel me to keep going:

• When someone tells you that you look great or ask if I have been losing weight – This brief sentenced, when spoken by someone else, is one of the greatest feelings ever. It is confirmation that I am doing the right things. Its confirmation that all my hard work and dedication is paying off.
• When an old shirt fits – I had this happen to me last night. I bought a shirt on my honeymoon that was a little snug, so I never wore it. It was at the bottom of my drawer and I decided to try it on. Not only did it fit, but it looked good. Fitting into previously small clothes is a great feeling. Its like getting a whole new wardrobe. It makes me feel good when I can fit into pants or shirts without looking like a stuffed sausage.
• When I have to make a new hole in my belt – I haven’t actually done this yet, but I will probably need to do so in the next few days. Pants are no longer fitting (baggy) and my belt isn’t much help. I could go buy a new belt, but its so much more gratifying when I show people the hole I poke in my belt. It makes me feel good that I can see my progress by looking at the difference between old holes and new holes in my belt.

Weight loss is tough. It takes mental fortitude and determination to lose weight. You must survive the emotional roller coaster.  Finding things that make me feel good help ease the pain of the emotional valleys that come when you embark on a weight loss journey. Good feelings are the reason I am losing weight. I want to feel good all the time…not just when I get a compliment.