I am 10 weeks into this journey and did something that has ended up being a lifesaver for my mental state. I figured I would share here so others can copy if they like, and/or share tidbits that worked really well for them so we can steal from you too!

I knew as a low bmi'er going in (32) I would lose slower than most, and because I was a lifelong dieter, PCOS w/IR, and just overall person who always lost slower than everyone despite usually working harder and being the most strict.... I needed to have some strategy for not freaking out with the disappointments.

At 10 weeks post op, I have lost about 20 pounds. Less than most, but still 20 pounds! I did something that I had no idea would do so much for my peace of mind.

Before surgery, I asked my Dr. how long he thought it would take me to get to my goal weight. He said 9 months was very reasonable. So I took the weight I needed to lose to get to goal (53 pounds and divided it by 9) 5.8... and I set a calendar reminder on my phone for each monthiversury post surgery. Counting down 5.8 pounds per month landing me at my goal weight 9 months post surgery. I do realize my initial loss is more and my later loss may be less, but in the interim, through stalls, lesser weight loss than most my peers here, I still feel encouraged when that reminder pops up and see I am well ahead of the curve and reminded I'm moving the right direction.

The further I get from my surgery, the more global I get in my thinking. I stress less over the day to day and stay focused on the big picture. I would love to hear how others have stayed motivated and positive on their way to goal... especially in the final weeks/months as it gets closer and likely more challenging.

I'm in the same position. This is a great way to look at it. I'm down 15lbs a month out with an end goal of 61lbs. This puts my journey in perspective! Make healthy choices get active and it will fall in line.