As someone who has been affected with lipedema, a chronic condition that causes an abnormal accumulation of fat in the legs, I understand the challenges of weight loss and body acceptance. For years, I battled with feelings of frustration and hopelessness as I tried various diets and exercise routines that seemed to have no impact on my body.
Starting the Journey
However, my journey towards weight loss and body positivity took a turn when I realized that success is not just about the number on the scale. It is about the feeling of self-improvement and confidence that comes with making positive changes in one’s life.
For me, weight loss success has been defined by a number of factors. Firstly, it is about feeling comfortable and confident in my own skin. This means accepting my body for what it is, while also taking steps to improve my overall health and wellbeing.
Taking Positive Steps
Secondly, success is about making sustainable changes in my diet and exercise routine that I can maintain for the long term. This means finding a balance between indulging in my favorite foods and making healthier choices that nourish my body and provide me with the energy I need to live my life to the fullest.
Finding Support and Building a Community
Lastly, weight loss success is about finding support and encouragement from those around me. This includes my loved ones who have been there for me every step of the way, as well as the wider community of people who understand the struggles of living with lipedema. As a plus-size influencer, self-care mentor, and lipedema awareness champion, I share my story in many events and conferences, including this upcoming Fat Disorders Resource Society (FDRS) conference in Atlanta, which I will be coordinating the fashion show in.
Ultimately, success is a journey, not a destination. It is about recognizing that every step forward, no matter how small, is a step in the right direction. By embracing a positive attitude towards weight loss and body acceptance, we can make meaningful changes in our lives that contribute to our overall health and wellbeing.