What Nobody Tells You About Losing Weight

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What is weight loss, really? It’s not what it seems. Seriously. And that’s where folks get into trouble.

They think weight loss is a magic cure all. That once they hit their goal, the work is done. In their minds, they might know better. But then there’s that part that wants, well, the magic.

I know, because I used to think this way. Some version of, “I’ll just lose these few pounds and… I’ll make more friends, be more successful at work, get a date with a handsome dude, be less cranky with my kids, have more fun, be totally happy.” Etc.

I’m not saying that there aren’t rewards to weight loss. Of course there are! I should know—having lost 100 pounds 20 years ago. (Read all about it in my book, The Hungry Ghost: How I Ditched 100 Pounds and Came Fully Alive!) Having your right body weight and size is absolutely basic not only longevity but also to sanity.

My blood pressure and cholesterol went right down. Off the meds I went! I could climb stairs without panting, get more done without a nap, and take that first morning step without foot pain. Plus, as I was less upset about my health and weight and less obsessed with food, my relationships improved.

I was (and am) living this truth: It’s tough to feel good about your life if you don’t feel well or if you’re way too focused on foods that aren’t good for you. (The definition of food addict and compulsive overeater.)

But gaining the weight all back, that’s the problem for lots of folks. I know. I did that, too, until my last time around. My mistake, every time, was thinking that once the weight was lost, my work was done.
Uh, uh. Nope. Doesn’t work like that. Not at all.

You have to find what works, then keep working it, one day at a time. For us hard core food addicts, that’s some very strong medicine—religiously avoiding foods we can’t control ourselves around (especially sugar, a total drug to me), even weighing and measuring our meals. Maintaining a weight loss requires as much intensity and diligence as taking it off did.

But here’s the rub: Sustainable weight loss also requires dealing with all the the issues that were hidden by the food and the preoccupation with weight, and giving up the idea that weight loss is a panacea.

There are tons of tools available for learning to deal with life on life’s terms. Job one, though, is to realize, accept and work with the fact that losing weight is only the first step in living well. Important, yes. The end product? No.

My life depends on addressing all my difficulties, not just the weight. How about you?

Gay Norton Edelman’s latest book is The Hungry Ghost: How I Ditched 100 Pounds and Came Fully Alive. In addition to writing, Gay coaches other writers and mentors spiritual seekers. Learn more at at GayEdelman.com.