Hi Everyone, I'm new to DIS and need help!

[DisneyBride2B]

Where do I start? I have had problems with weight my entire life and it became a status symbol of sorts in my family (obviously the slimmer the better, I have yo-yo'd for half of my life starting when I was 12). Now, I am trying to plan my wedding and I am even terrified to try on gowns because I look in the mirror and just cry. I guess my question is how does everyone get motivated and stay motivated? I need something to spark my self esteem into the good side instead of trying to hide. I want to be committed to this and everyone on this board seems to be fantastic and supportive of everyone...how do I start my WISH?

Thanks in advance!
Carrie

[Tiger Lily 03]

Welcome to WISH. You have found the best place.

Sorry about your issues with your weight. My first suggestion is to not focus on that "D" word but rather on doing things healthy. Your mind needs to be in the right place and eating/moving/choosing healthy may be just the thing to get you to the place you need.

While motivation comes from you and within, it is certainly helpful to have people who are here for you through the good and bad times.

Browse around to see what might fit. Jump in any thread and start posting. You will find everyone here will welcome you. You can read the "sticky" posts at the top that will explain a little of what we are about and how to get the clippies in your signatures.

Good luck in your journey. Come often, post lots. Let us know how your are progressing.

[crzy4pooh]

First of all - congrats on your upcoming wedding!!!! :bride: I have a question for you based on what you wrote - do you want to lose weight for you, or do think you have to for this "status symbol" in your family? In my experience, everytime I tried to lose weight for someone else, or because I thought I had to, I may have lost a bit, but it all came right back on. (I'm right there with you on the :yo-yo: ) It sounds like you are ready to do it for yourself this time. As far as motivation, I guess everyone has to find what is important to them. For me, I was facing some serious health issues, and decided I wanted to grow old with my DH, have a family, and be there for my kids. I couldn't do that as I was, so it was up to me to make a change. One of the best ways to stay motivated is to have accountability - get a weight loss buddy, or join a challenge here on the board. We have them for exercise goals and weight-related goals. Everyone is soooo supportive and encouraging! When you are struggling, we can cheer you on, and you can do the same for us. I think many of us struggle with self-esteem issues. Again, the challenge threads are very encouraging - they just make you feel good about you. I also like Dr. Phil's 7 keys book. My issues were not merely about what food I ate - I had to deal with each of the keys to find out WHY I ate. Here's the truth, though: You are worth it - you deserve to be healthy!!! :goodvibes Please believe that! I'm sure your fiance agrees!!! :grouphug: If you want to chat, please feel free to PM me. We'd love to see you on one of the challenges, too! ;)