Since becoming serious about my physical health in early April I can say I've learned a thing or two, or five. I've had an amazing amount of support from so many people and I am so thankful for anyone that takes the time out of their day to give me words of encouragement! After posting pictures on social media I got tons of DM's asking how I lost the weight. The easy answer is "cutting and tracking my calories and working out 4-5 days a week" but there is so much more. Here are 5 things I wish I knew before starting my weight loss journey.

1. Motivation DOES NOT last!

Discipline — "the practice of training people to obey rules or a code of behavior, using punishment to correct disobedience."

Motivation — "the general desire or willingness of someone to do something."

The first few weeks and even months are surprisingly the easiest to stay motivated in the gym. During this time you begin to almost see immediate results, get those endorphins in your brain and get excited to get closer to your end result. But sadly, this is not indefinite. Don't get me wrong, I was one to scroll down my "Motivational Fitness Quotes" Pinterest board when I didn't feel like going to the gym or eating healthy. You will not always want to roll out of bed at 5:30am to get to the gym before work or eat a salad instead of a 20 piece nugget. Discipline is what is needed in order to keep pushing yourself to get closer to your goals.

2. It is a LIFESTYLE not a diet

When completely transforming my diet I would always beat myself up anytime I indulged in an Oreo or salt and vinegar chips every now and then. But this is most commonly why most 'fad diets' fail! It is important to stay consistent in eating BUT do not be so hard on yourself for splurging once in awhile.

3. You are NOT defined by the number on the scale

Everyones bodies are different. Everyone loses weight differently. Numbers on the scale can be a useful tool but taking pictures to compare throughout your journey and measuring yourself around your waist, thighs, belly, etc are a way more accurate way to track progress! BUT if you feel good about yourself and your body, numbers DO NOT MATTER!

4. It does get difficult

I could not count on two hands how many times I have had complete breakdowns feeling as if I had hit a plateau with my weight loss. It does get difficult. What helped me most is comparing pictures of myself and knowing I feel so much better than I used to! This is where DISCIPLINE matters most! Even when times get hard you have to stay consistent and remember why you started.

5. It is worth it

Since April i have lost a total of 15 pounds and I went from a size pant to a size 4-6! Through all the blood, sweat and tears I am so thankful I began this journey! Although I am not yet where I want to be, I already feel a million times more confident!

~TIPS FOR WEIGHT LOSS~

Although I am far from a professional, here are some things that have worked for me!

- 'MyFitnessPal' is the best app for tracking calories and macros

- Before I worked up the courage to actually go to the gym, I started out with at home workouts. These are great for beginners or if you don't have time to hit the gym! My favorite youtubers are 'LoveSweatFitness," "Whitney Simmons," "HopeScope," and "Nikki Blackketter."

- To see how many calories to eat in order to lose weight that is catered to your specific body type, google a "Calorie Calculator!"

- The internet was and still is my best friend for workout routines!