In the process of going through a divorce from a husband who decided I wasn't "hot" enough for him anymore, I decided it was time to change my priorities and finally take care of myself. For years I had eaten junk food on the run or late at night and not exercised regularly - something I previously enjoyed very much - because I was too busy doing everything for everyone else.
As a result, by the time I was 39 I was a mess both mentally and physically. My life revolved around taking care of everyone else in my life and putting my own needs and wants last. I was depressed, severely overweight, and just not at all comfortable in my own skin. I went through the motions everyday, feeling like I was practically invisible. My weight went up to 184 pounds at 5"4" - plus I had lost all the muscle tone I previously had.
I was 40 when I finally took back control of my life. Working out in my own living room using inexpensive and easily available tools, such as dumbbells, resistance bands, and stability balls, I totally reshaped my body while losing 60 pounds. Additionally, the exercise helped me to stop "thinking" for a while and greatly helped me through the depression. My mind would be so cluttered with all the anger and pain and exercising seemed to clear it all away and let me focus on my body.
The weight dropped off quickly at a rate of approximately 2 pounds a week. Additionally, my whole body shape changed from pear-shaped to hour-glass. I got my small waist back and my hips and butt shrunk dramatically!
Now I'm at a happy 124 pounds, which I find quite maintainable by doing half of hour of exercise a day and watching my diet. But the changes in my physical appearance were only the very beginning.
Taking care of myself changed me, giving me confidence, energy, and focus beyond anything I had ever experienced before. As a result of my weight loss success, I decided to change careers. I’m currently a certified personal trainer. I take great pleasure in helping others to reach their health and fitness goals. My goal is to “pay it forward” and work with people on a one-on-one basis to help them get past the hurdles that have stopped them from becoming their own personal best. I truly believe that it is never too late to be in the best shape of your life!
We LOVE this story. How many of us can relate to not making time for yourself? You must secure your oxygen mask first before helping others. Joanne is proof that you're better for yourself and your family when you make YOU a priority.
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Dawn
+1
It would be AWESOME for you to walk up to your ex, look him up and down and say, "Yeahh, you're not hot enough, or GOOD enough for ME, (insert expletive here :-)!" You look FANTASTIC and while the launch of your fit life might have been under rough terms, you own every bit of that success. Great work! So inspiring!
What a great story. Dawn is right, truly inspiring! We should talk, I have a similar story to the end of my marriage. The best revenge is living well. Good for you!!!!
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