Looking Beyond the Scale

What’s your motivation in preparing for weight loss surgery? What are you looking forward to doing or getting rid of as you meet your goals? So much of a weight loss journey extends beyond the number on the scale. After surgery it’s also important to keep in mind that so many of the accomplishments we reach in living a healthier life are not reflected in a numerical value.

A shift in perspective to seeing the bigger picture can help us remember that while weight is an important measurement after weight loss surgery, there are many other successes that can measure our shift to a healthier lifestyle.

Here are 20 ways to look beyond the scale for measurements of success in your weight loss journey:

1.    Play with kids and grandkids

2.    Have more energy

3.    Feel more outgoing

4.    Take less medications

5.     Become stronger

6.    Less joint pain

7.    Improved mood

8.    Sitting comfortably

9.    Better mobility

10.  Being a role model for your family

11.  Enjoy being active

12.  New cooking skills

13.  Walking for enjoyment

14.  Prioritizing your health

15.  Improved anxiety

16.  Making new friends that support your healthy lifestyle

17.  Finding new active hobbies

18.  Clothes fitting better

19.  Walk/run a 5K

20.  Trying new healthy foods with enjoyment

Take a moment to reflect on what brought you to this journey.  Write them down, read them out loud and remember to reflect on them when you feel as if your progress has stalled. Revisiting the bigger picture can show you just how far you’ve come and looking beyond the scale can inspire new avenues of motivation!

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