I’ve passed the one-month mark on Weight Watchers.

When serious about it, I usually start ‘weight loss programs’ with a lot of success – losing significant amounts of weight early on – which is often the case when you’re starting at a fairly hefty number. I know that the initial losses are just fluid etc, but big losses early (when you have a long way to go) are great for motivational purposes.

However… this time around it’s been different. I started at an awkward time (weighed myself before Christmas but started after) and in the month since then the additional weight has come off – VERY GRADUALLY. I’m trying to be very zen about it but… I won’t lie, it’s been a challenge. My natural instinct is to judge progress by those wretched numbers… indeed in the past I’ve often referred to “The Scales of Judgement”.

When I announced that I was doing WW I talked about some not-dieting advocates I admire and had very interesting Twitter chats with both Rick and Marsha (at the time I shared them on my Diet Schmiet FB page). I’d kinda thought it was the concept of ‘dieting’ they had a problem with (and it essentially is). I’d thought by not saying I was ‘dieting’ I was overcoming some of the usual antipathy I struggle with when trying to lose weight; but both actually clarified for me that they believe THE FOCUS ON WEIGHT LOSS is the problem.

Well duh! I thought. That’s why I’m doing this.

However… the slow start I’ve had (and may well continue to have) in this reformed approach to weight loss has forced me to be more patient. (Cos – quite frankly – I have a long friggin’ way to go!)

So… what I am focussing on instead relates to the reasons I said I was doing this in the first place and the changes (or non-scale victories) I’m experiencing.

1. I don’t feel as uncomfortable

When announcing I was starting Weight Watchers, I admitted I constantly felt uncomfortable. I was often bloated and generally ate so much I was usually really full. Well, my tummy’s obviously still way larger than it should be, but I don’t feel uncomfortable all of the time. Indeed – I doubt it’s shrunk much, but it certainly feels like it has.

2. I’m eating more healthily

I’m trying stacks of new recipes so mixing up my ‘diet’ (as in what I eat) a lot. With that comes things I don’t mind but don’t choose to eat. Like veges.

3. I’m making compromises like a grown-up

Not all compromises are difficult: ie. I’m choosing red wine over champagne. But… just a couple of nights ago I was partaking in a red wine when I realised I wasn’t enjoying it and would prefer to use those points for something else.

4. I’m starting to think about exercise

As you’re now well aware, I’ve started burlesque dance classes. Scary as all shit of course, but it’s a HUGE achievement for me. I’m hoping that I’m on that long journey towards increased fitness – where every step makes a difference.

5. I’m looking at other ways to become healthier

I’m again trying to give up my Vanilla Diet Coke habit. I know from past experience that my consumption makes me far hungrier than I am when I’m not having it (or consuming only moderate amounts, which is hard for me!). I’m also trying to reduce my alcohol consumption.

So…  there you have it. Some NSVs to keep me on track and remind me that I’m doing ‘this’ for reasons OTHER than weight loss.

Do you focus too much on ‘the numbers’ when trying to lose weight or get fitter or healthier?

Disclaimer: I have been given a free six month online membership to Weight Watchers but my thoughts, opinions and words here are my own. Please check out the program for yourself before making any decisions.

I’m linking up with Essentially Jess and her IBOTers today.