I was over 300, down a little under that...and do also get overwhelmed by what my 'ideal' weight is. In fact, when I just joined DS, and saw where I could make a goal, I made one, listing the total amount I need to lose.

Maybe that needs to change...if we take smaller, more manageable goals and set realistic timetables to achieve them, we will get thru it.

It kind of reminds me of when I decided to get my bachelor's...I was 38 years old. I kept thinking how young all the students were, and how old I'd be when I graduated...almost talked myself out of trying. In the end, what helped the most was this perspective: In 4 years, I will be 42, no matter what...well, I could be 42 and still not have the degree, or I could be 42, with the degree.

It's going to take time to get this weight off, but the time will pass whether I lose it or not...not sure that makes sense how I'm saying it, but I hope it helps a little.

Best to you.

Try not to think of it like "I have to lose 200lbs" think of it more like I have to lose 10lbs 20x. Its still a bit overwhelming, but maybe a bit easier? I know that's how I had to think.... when I first came here I weighed 335+ and have gotten down to about 250, then gained and was back up to 270, and am now back down to 264. My goal is to be 190, and when I get there I'll re-evaluate.

One step at a time :)

I can so totally relate...I have so much weight to lose, it can be overwhelming just to think about it.

That's why I'm borrowing a tool from people quitting drinking, drugging, etc.....and am only going to focus on just "one day at a time". Otherwise, it is too much, and I just can't get my mind around accomplishing it!

Just for today, I will not overeat.
Just for today, I will do a manageable amount of exercise, whatever that is.

Just for today...is something I can do....with the support of and connection to people like you here.

I'm not alone with this problem anymore...and neither are you.

Hugs, Truth

Niffer, that makes a ton of sense what you said. And I really like that perspective. The time will pass whether we make the effort or not, we just need to make small steps to do what we can.

I'm currently about 325lbs. I've actually been trying for a good month or so now to loose weight. my goal is to loose 100 lbs by my next birthday. (about 10 months). I try not to think about the fact that 225 is still technically obese. I just think about the fact that it will still feel way better to be 225 than it does to be 325. making some effort is better than nothing just because you're overwhelmed.

Admittedly, my weight loss at this point is indecipherable. But I have to attribute it partly to the fact that my current situation doesn't lend itself to me having full autonomy in my eating choices (I live with my mother for the time being, and she tends to be murder on my willpower) However, I have been exercising and doing yoga regularly. Even though I haven't lost much weight yet, I feel a lot stronger and my back doesn't bother me as quickly. I consider it strength training so that, in a few months when I am on my own and less tempted, I'll be stronger and have better stamina to actually accomplish the cardio that will help me the most.

Its all about perspective. sometimes life gets in the way of our goals. the best we can do is to make the best we can in small attempts. If you can't avoid fast food, for instance, try to buy grilled and lay off the sauces. If you can't exercise an hour most days, or your schedule screws up for a few days, try to at least exercise for 15 minutes every day, whenever you can grab a break from work or whatever. Even 15 min a day makes a big difference in how you feel.

Never give up, and just take it one step at a time.

I am about 330 (high estimate but not by much) and only 5'4". I am in the same conundrum as you if i lose 100lbs. theres another 100+ I have to go. I think its overwhelming to the point its almost dibiltating simply because you want the end result now and logically you know it won't happen. I think its one of those take it 1 hour at a time you'll feel more successful (I know I do) so you had 1 bad hour but 23 good ones etc.

One hour at a time, I like that idea!! I too am over 300 lbs. I have to not think about the total and try to break it down to basics, being able to tie my shoes again, lift my son, walk up a flight of stairs, etc...

right you are, Kathy. The little victories make all the difference. I just tied my shoes today from a standing position today for the first time in ages! And was able to walk in heels without instant agony! I feel like these are super big signs that things really are improving. and they really pump me up to get to that next little step :)

I am 280 and 5'1", so I have at least 150 to take off to get into the healthy range.

You know what has helped me? I think when was the last time I was in the 260's? When I get to 269, I'll start thinking to myself, I am going to tbe in the 250's soon. To me, it seems like so much more of an accomplishment than thinking of it as a ten pound loss. Silly, but it works for me.

I started at 415 pounds when i realized it was time to do something. Today is my ten days post surgery check up with my surgeon . My current weight is 340 pounds. I started the whole process in Jan. The reason i say all this is because the time has flown by and like everyone else has said just break it down into small steps. i still need to loose 140 pounds but i look at it one day at a time.

I also have a lot of weight to lose but I relate to your post more in my efforts to stop smoking pot. For me it is a never ending battle because for years it has masked my depression, trying to quit pot I have to face the reality that I now have nothing in my life to bring me that great joy, in that sense I may fight this my entire life

I am vey overwelmed myself about my weight loss.. I have a whole person to lose also.. 175 lbs worth.. I am very overwelmed.. I know it takes patience but I don't want to have it.. ugh...