Drastic results don't have to come from drastic reasons!

For context, I lost 65lbs last year, and it all started because of a car accident.

Essentially, I had a near death experience in 2020, and after a period of depression following that, I had an epiphany of sorts-- if life can be taken from you at any time, why waste what lucky time you're given allowing yourself to be miserable?

I was a healthy weight in high school but in college I gained about 50-60 pounds. My car accident happened just before I graduated college, and as soon as I got my degree I realized it was time to take care of my body. The weight started to fall off almost impossibly easily because my mind was so focused on this big epiphany about mortality and what's worth your effort in life.

HOWEVER! Now that I've lost this weight, I realize I NEVER would have made this change had it not been for such a drastic event in my life. And that bothers me. I wouldn't wish something like that on anyone, but what I DO wish is for everyone to have access to that same motivation. So, if it helps anyone stay motivated, here's what kept me in the getting-my-health-back mentality:

1. Life is precious, and the better you care for yourself the higher your odds are of having a long and prosperous life. Obviously.
2. It is INSANELY DRAINING to live in a body you hate. Lacking self confidence and bodily energy honestly changes your life and personality over time. You'll be shocked by how different you are when you look in the mirror and are proud of how you look.
3. You're SO LUCKY to have a body that moves! I couldn't stop thinking about how I could've been paralyzed in that accident, which propelled me to go hiking, running, anything to use the body I was lucky enough to keep. Be grateful for it.
4. When you like how you feel and look, you're more likely to embrace what life has to offer. Changing the things in your life that weigh you down, literally and metaphorically, opens you up physically AND mentally to go after what you want. More confidence in travel, exercise, dating... what a gift!

Those are the big ones. Hope it helps someone. Every goal is within your reach if only you have the willpower and dedication.

submitted by /u/gsbeyerle
[link] [comments]