Oh, the joy of those non-scale victories! Let's chat about how to observe and honor your progress after surgery without getting hung up on that pesky weight scale. Trust me…there are plenty of reasons to celebrate that have nothing to do with numbers!

In my years of practice, I've seen lots of clients get down in the dumps about their weight loss efforts post-surgery. It's a common struggle, especially when they hit a plateau. Despite me telling them that plateaus are totally normal, they often feel bummed out, defeated, and even call themselves failures. I get their frustration which is why I stress the importance of focusing on non-scale victories to boost both their mental and physical well-being.

So, let's dive into some tips to keep you motivated and celebrate your amazing progress!

Tip #1: Measure Your waist with yarn.

Forget the scale and grab some yarn! Monthly, take the time to measure your waist and hang that yarn up on the wall. Over time, you'll see a visual representation of your shrinking waistline as those yarn lines get shorter and shorter. It's a tangible reminder of your hard work and progress that you can proudly show off.

Tip #2: Create a Non-Scale victory jar.

Get yourself a jar and some colorful post-it notes. Label it as your "Non-Scale Victory Jar" and start collecting those little triumphs. These triumphs can be a bunch of things that you may not even realize have made such incredible differences in your world.

Tip #3: Increased Energy and Stamina:

Have you noticed a significant boost in your energy levels and endurance? Celebrate this non-scale victory! Whether it's being able to climb a flight of stairs without getting winded or keeping up with your kids during playtime, improved energy and stamina are clear signs of a healthier, fitter you. Embrace these moments as a testament to your hard work and dedication.

Tip #4: Clothing Fit and Body Measurements:

Instead of just relying on the scale, pay attention to how your clothes fit and how your body measurements change. Do your favorite jeans now slide on effortlessly? Can you comfortably rock that dress you've been eyeing? Take pride in the fact that your body shape is transforming and becoming more toned. Keep track of your measurements over time and celebrate each inch lost or gained in the right places.

Tip #5: Get That Movement In:

Physical changes go beyond weight loss. As you embark on your fitness journey, you'll notice improvements in your strength, flexibility, and overall fitness level. Celebrate the ability to perform exercises with more ease or reach new milestones in your workout routine. Whether it's completing a set of push-ups, holding a yoga pose for longer, or lifting heavier weights, these achievements show the progress you're making.

Tip #6 Improved Mood and Mental Well Being:

Weight loss impacts more than just your physical health; it positively affects your mental well-being too. Notice how your mood has improved, and you're feeling more confident and positive. Celebrate the non-scale victories of reduced stress, enhanced self-esteem, and a happier outlook on life. Embrace the newfound mental clarity and emotional resilience that come with your weight loss journey. 

Tip #7 Health Improvements:

Weight loss often leads to significant health improvements, even beyond the numbers on the scale. Celebrate non-scale victories such as lowered blood pressure, improved cholesterol levels, stabilized blood sugar, or reduced joint pain. These tangible improvements show the positive impact you're making on your long-term health and well-being. 

Tip #8 Lifestyle Milestones:

Think about the lifestyle changes you've made since starting your weight loss journey. Did you quit smoking, cut back on alcohol, or develop a regular exercise routine? These non-scale victories have a huge impact on your overall health and deserve recognition. Celebrate these milestones as a testament to your commitment to a healthier lifestyle.

Tip #9 Compliments and Positive Feedback:

Lastly, pay attention to the compliments and positive feedback you receive from others. When friends, family, or coworkers notice your transformation, accept their praise graciously. These external affirmations serve as reminders of the progress you've made, even when the scale doesn't reflect it. Take pride in the positive impact you're making in the eyes of those around you. If you're feeling down, simply reach into the jar and grab a post-it note. Each note will remind you of a moment when you overcame a challenge, felt proud of yourself, or experienced a positive change. Let those little victories lift your spirits and guide you back to a positive mindset.

 

Whenever you're feeling down, simply reach into the jar and grab a post-it note. Each note will remind you of a moment when you overcame a challenge, felt proud of yourself, or experienced a positive change. Let those little victories lift your spirits and guide you back to the path of positivity. Now go ahead and give yourself a nice pat on the back. You have so much to be proud of and grateful for!

 

Remember, the goal was never just a specific number on the scale. You embarked on this journey because you wanted a life filled with countless pleasures and newfound ease as you shrink and transform.

 

So, let's shift the focus from those numbers and embrace the joy of non-scale victories. Celebrate every small triumph, enjoy the changes you notice in your body and mind, and honor the incredible progress you've made. This journey is about so much more than what a scale can measure. It's about reclaiming your life, gaining confidence, and savoring the pleasures that come with your transformation.

 

Keep going, keep celebrating, and keep shining!