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What keeps you motivated or inspires you to keep going?

54 replies31 peopleFeb 5, 2026☆ Follow
Summary

What personal reasons drive people to lose weight and stay committed?

Participants share a range of personal drivers including escaping chronic pain, avoiding family health patterns like early death or diabetes, feeling confident in their skin, wearing fitted clothes without hiding, and maintaining mobility and faculties into older age. Many note that visible progress and reduced discomfort become self-reinforcing once underway, shifting focus from self-criticism to self-acceptance. Access to effective treatments is mentioned as easing maintenance for some, though sources are not detailed here.

What this discussion establishes

Nothing here is advice.

54 replies · 31 people · page 1 of 2
WarmMarble27archiveopening postFeb 5

I've updated my profile to the look I'm aiming for, hoping it pushes me forward each time I check. I also have a herniated disc and doctors say dropping weight will ease the fat buildup in my lower back muscles. Avoiding pain is a major reason for me since it's bothered me for years. There are a few nice t-shirts I've bought that still don't fit and I try them on now and then, looking forward to wearing them out. I'd also like to look decent in a fitted knitted jumper instead of feeling lumpy. I'm tired of oversized clothes to cover everything up. What drives you or what goals do you have? Being honest, what I really want is to feel at ease and proud of my own body instead of insecure all the time.

SlowLedger56archiveFeb 6

I want to make sure liver cancer doesn't end my life.

GreyPebble44archiveFeb 6

Your writing really struck a chord with me. I can see pieces of my own path in it. To be frank, I began this whole thing out of irritation with how I looked and felt. Having fought the scale for most of my years, I cycled through every stage of resistance and frustration. These days the reason feels fresh. I’ve dropped forty-five kilos and the drive is no longer rooted in self-loathing. What I want now is to feel at ease inside my body, to come across as attractive, soft yet strong, and sure of myself. I’d like to pick out fun outfits simply because they suit me, instead of using them to disappear. I’d like to choose bolder styles that highlight my figure without wondering how I’ll stack up against everyone else before a night with the girls. I’m done playing the comic relief or fading into corners. I want to step forward, occupy room, and look polished without second-guessing. The number on the scale still tugs at me, yet I’m thankful to be nearer my target than ever before, and that movement forward keeps me steady. My private aim, if you catch the reference, is to resemble a certain Pokémon character known for its sleek, powerful build. That picture is what makes me show up for training and meals every day, following a plan rather than fleeting feelings. I’m cheering on you and the rest of us moving ahead.

SteadyQuill55archiveFeb 6

I'm middle aged and I want to be hot. I'm not going to look young and fresh again and I'm not trying to chase that because it would just drive me crazy as time passes. I have good eyes, a solid basic figure, and I'm funny, confident, competent and smart. I want to come across as a sexy older woman who ages into looking good with nothing to worry about. It's not really about men since plenty would go for anything that moves, so it's more about the cool factor of being a smart, fearless older lady with a good face and body.

RustHarbour93archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @WarmMarble27 (opening post)

At 59 I started noticing I was heading down the same path my mother took before she died young. I want to stay healthy and fit so I can do things without adjusting for my weight or fitness. I'm 12 weeks in but planning for the long term. My husband and I have plans for retirement and even now. One dream has been to race cars at the track, something I couldn't do earlier due to being female, family duties or money. We're in a position to try now but finding gear that fits is tough at the moment. I'm aiming for the 2027 season as a start.

RustHarbour93archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @SteadyQuill55

You go for it. I married my husband who is seven years younger when I was 52. Sending good vibes your way.

CopperAlder51archiveFeb 6

My mirror and blood work pushed me toward one treatment. My age at 67 along with concerns about metabolic and brain function drove the rest. I want to keep all my faculties as long as possible.

GreyPebble44archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @SteadyQuill55

I fully endorse the beginning of the previous message's closing part. Pure fact right there 🤣🤣🤣🤣

IronHarbour37archiveFeb 6

Seeing my reflection and feeling positive about it matters to me. Putting on attractive outfits is something I hope for as well. Close to fifty now, I've watched how extra weight brings on multiple long-term health problems including joint trouble, cardiac issues, and blood sugar disorders. Growing older in the best shape possible while staying fit and energetic for many years ahead is my aim.

BlueSignal46archiveFeb 6

These peptides have been a life changing miracle for me. My motivation was better health. Results showed up consistently with lowered blood pressure so I stopped my prescribed medication, and now my clothes fit without a fight. Here are some pictures from 15 months ago to now.

SteadyQuill55archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @GreyPebble44

My elderly mom, who's been a widow for some time, passed this along to me. In our little community, folks hold off for a full year before approaching a woman who's lost her husband. She's suddenly dealing with plenty of interest from guys at this point. She tossed in that remark too, saying she'll always look better than a sluggish lamb, regardless.

SteadyQuill55archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @RustHarbour93

Glad you're having a good time, though my aim is becoming a worldly senior woman wearing stylish bonnets while often dating fresh mature gentlemen. Courteous sorts might label me an ex-wife, but fellow seniors gossip and label me loose, which startles their grown grandkids!

CopperAlder51archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @BlueSignal46

Such a striking contrast now. Your whole look has improved dramatically, appearing leaner while radiating better health. Impressive results!

BrightBeacon35archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @SteadyQuill55

Yeah, certain guys would even screw something warm like soup.

SteadyQuill55archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @BrightBeacon35

I'm thankful the creator gave me looks that beat a mushroom soup can sitting out to cool.

CopperAlder51archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @SteadyQuill55

Did she slip in one of those old lady sayings once more? Cracking up hard at it.

CopperSignal27archiveFeb 6

At the start three years ago I was in a bad spot with poor health and even supermarket shopping felt exhausting. I just wanted to lose 20 or 30 kilos so I could move around more easily. Now 78 kilos lighter it is far more comfortable being in my body and I don't want to lose that comfort. I also have strong health reasons not to regain the weight. These medications make keeping it off much less difficult and thanks to this forum I can actually access them.

WarmMarble27archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @SlowLedger56

Sounds promising! Hoping for the best on your effort. Maybe fatty liver is involved? I received that diagnosis years earlier myself.

WarmMarble27archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @GreyPebble44

I notice how similar our situations seem to be. The mental strain from spending years thinking of myself as the overweight companion, unattractive, or even just the stress involved in picking clothes really builds up over time, right? Everyday existence is already tough without adding that constant burden. I've lost count of the occasions when I tried on a shirt that appealed to me, only to discover it clung too closely or made me appear awful, leading me to rip it off furiously and hurl it aside while feeling ashamed. Nice work on how far you've come already. That's quite substantial. You must feel good about it. I'm wishing for the moment you slip into that outfit and realize you've reached your goal. That sensation will be incredibly rewarding. Stay on track, my Mewtwo buddy!

SteadyAlder49archiveFeb 6

I began the previous year weighing three hundred pounds at five foot eight with forty five percent body fat and a visceral fat level of nineteen. Around that time I turned forty one as a severely overweight single man after divorce. Since I couldn't buy an expensive car like others my age going through a crisis, I joined a fitness center instead. Following a fifty pound drop my progress stopped. That's when I discovered these GLP compounds. One in particular transformed everything and opened me up to research peptides from unofficial sources. Currently I weigh one hundred ninety five pounds at nineteen percent body fat with visceral fat at eight. Getting started was tough mentally but noticing gradual improvements pushed me forward. I still struggle with how I perceive my body and probably always will yet I'm gradually accepting my reflection. Visible muscle with good shape now helps keep my drive high. My aim last year was dropping seventy five pounds but I managed one hundred instead. For this year I'm aiming for fifteen percent body fat. Feeling bad about myself and frustrated pushed me toward these medications and my intense focus from ADHD made me try various experimental substances from overseas labs. I wouldn't change a thing about that path. The picture showing my current look was taken when I was fifteen to twenty pounds heavier but it's the latest I have.

BlueHarbour72archiveFeb 6

Diabetes isn't something I'd ever want for myself. Relatives from both my parents carry the condition, and now that I'm older the odds of developing it feel higher than before.

SlowLedger56archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @WarmMarble27

Yes, the diagnosis happened eight weeks back. Ultrasound combined with elastography revealed a rather elevated stage. Still, recent bloodwork shows that tirzepatide along with eating changes and physical activity lets me improve little by little while beginning to turn the issue around.

SlowAlder74archiveFeb 6

It's the headway I've made that pushes me ahead, I reckon it's straightforward enough. Spotting those changes just makes me crave additional progress!

PlainThistle36archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @RustHarbour93

My spouse and I also compete in drag racing events, where increased velocity demands extra protective equipment. I've carried extra pounds lifelong and finally want an off the shelf seat that fits without custom fabrication. Through intense personal discipline I reduced from three hundred fifty pounds down to two hundred forty between twenty eighteen and twenty twenty, only to regain everything after unwise decisions and heartbreaking events. This year we both chose to begin GLP1 treatments. Coverage was rejected quickly so I explored unofficial channels planning to try tirz. Along the way I encountered intriguing data plus lab findings from autoimmune and osteoarthritis investigations that also covered weight reduction using reta. I began that compound on the sixteenth of January twenty twenty six while at two hundred seventy four pounds. This morning the scale shows two hundred fifty eight with minimal struggle. Dropping beneath two hundred forty would represent the first such reading in two decades. I'm weary of remaining near three hundred pounds.

WarmMarble27archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @SteadyQuill55

Your comments were all so great. That's an amazing aim. You come across as really smart and I bet you're already attractive, though it's fine to aim higher. Wishing you reach your target quickly. Cougars have always been my thing, you know. When I feel good about myself physically once more, maybe I can draw their attention again. But for now, what's happened to that lazy sheep? 🤣

WarmMarble27archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @RustHarbour93

I admire how you've spotted a way to end the pattern that families repeat across many years. Recognizing your bold move feels right. No point holding back from diving into everything ahead. Each of us has limited years here, so make the most of what's available. Mind if I tag along for those car runs on the strip? That idea excites me a lot. Really impressive target to chase. Can't wait for the track events coming in a few years. Picturing the sensation of pulling on the suit for competition keeps the drive alive, and holding onto that image should bring it closer.

AmberCompass48archiveFeb 6

Damn, switching from oversized outfits to slim trousers feels incredible right now! Reaching a balanced weight with real fitness has become my target. That idea used to seem ridiculous for years. Everything changed though. I'll hit it before the warm months hit.

RustWillow66archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @WarmMarble27 (opening post)

Your situation reminds me of my own struggles when my weight increased significantly following a brain tumor diagnosis back when I turned 28. It left me feeling awful over many years. Reaching my target size has brought me such calm now. Pictures of my current appearance still surprise me because I don't see myself in them.

WarmQuill37archiveFeb 6

My goal involves getting into better shape overall. I'm not counting on looking as appealing as back when I carried less extra pounds, though it would feel good if shopping for outfits became possible. Far too many choices just don't fit my body properly at this point.

PatientAnchor52archiveFeb 6

My goal is to stay present and supportive for my kids while watching them mature so I can offer help in their later years. My job involves quite a bit of physical effort and I was beginning to wonder if I could sustain that level for much longer.

SlowMeadow76archiveFeb 6

Nothing pushes me forward like seeing and feeling actual progress. When this winter began, my coat from a couple years back just wouldn't close at all. The previous season, closing it up was tough, and remember it started out as an extra large size. After six weeks with Tirz, it sits on me more comfortably than when it was new.

GreenSparrow52archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @BlueSignal46

Awesome transformation. Keep up the good work.

WarmMarble27archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @CopperAlder51

Hi there, it does look like a common approach to make peace with your reflection instead of fighting it. How's your progress coming along? Did you get any follow-up lab tests recently? I'd like to hear if there have been any good results. I've checked out some intriguing substances for mental performance. Since my grandfather suffered from vascular dementia, I'll probably explore that area down the line as well.

WarmMarble27archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @IronHarbour37

Weight problems seem tied to tons of different health troubles these days. What folks consume now feels mostly awful next to meals from seven decades earlier ahead of those processed items showing up. Hoping things turn out well for everyone on this path. Eventually a moment arrives when the outfit goes on and the thought hits that these nice pieces actually suit you making the effort feel justified.

RustBeacon82archiveFeb 6

My aim is to improve my well-being and feel at ease with my body. Social worries make gatherings tough when I see myself as the older heavier person among pals. I'd like to think my spouse feels good having me around in public. He always treats me wonderfully and never puts me down at all. This pressure comes only from inside my own thoughts. By taking steps to enhance my situation, I expect to gain ease and assurance every day. My body is fine without any medical conditions. The usual changes from getting older and going through menopause are what I'm facing now.

WarmMarble27archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @BlueSignal46

Impressive effort overall. Happy the images stayed identifiable instead of hidden away. Changes to your expression along with clear signs of joy really stand out as fantastic. Kudos for pulling off that goal and getting a fresh start. Those tough clothes are my top choice too since they fill most of my closet space. A couple items I noted earlier as too big came from the same maker. Thinking about grabbing myself another shirt in smaller dimensions.

WarmAnchor49archiveFeb 6

Feeling this good really keeps me going strong. Others actually pay attention to me these days instead of looking right past. My appearance still draws some interest and that feels pretty good. Dropped 110 pounds so far.

BlueSignal49archiveFeb 6

My outfits hang much baggier these days and I feel more lively overall. Lost around thirty pounds across the past three months while getting around way more than before. My joints no longer ache during the usual daily strolls. My spouse and I have a baby due in roughly two weeks, and staying active enough for the new arrival was part of why I began. Growing up in a sedentary household where video games took over because my folks struggled with movement from extra weight, I decided to break that pattern. Over the years I attempted countless eating plans and kept postponing with promises of beginning next week. Noticing real progress feels great and keeps me going.

AmberAlder58archiveFeb 6

Your message is so similar to what I would say myself. In just four days I'm going under for an operation to fix this slipped disc issue that's bothered me over many years. Avoiding embarrassment from pictures of me is the biggest thing driving me forward. At six three I've always managed to hide a few extra pounds without it showing much, but around a year back one snapshot made me cringe at how bad I appeared. At the moment I simply want to stop feeling ashamed of my looks. There's this nice oversized shirt I own that I'm working to get into, and I pull it on often. Still not quite right yet but it's clearly sitting better now than before.

SteadyQuill55archiveFeb 6
↳ replying to @WarmQuill37

It thrills me to picture the moment you finally reach the goal you've been chasing. We both joined this spot during the same stretch, and I remember the tough path ahead of you back then. Your steady drive and sensible nature stand out, so I feel sure you'll make it, and I hope we both stick around until that day since I can't wait to hear how happy it makes you.

NorthQuill51archiveFeb 6

The question got me thinking even though I hadn't really considered it before. Weight problems have followed me through all my adult years. My size has gone up and down from well over three hundred pounds to as low as one eighty-five through strict low-carb eating plus long stretches without meals, something I later recognized as unhealthy. I began these shots to quiet the nonstop urges around food that had bothered me for more than twenty years, and they worked really well on that front. Looking better played a part too because I'm on my own and past my younger years, and I didn't need one more thing like extra pounds working against me. After the weight dropped and I got back into workouts my reasons moved toward something more lasting. These days I simply want to feel okay with who I am, how I come across to others, and the way my body moves through daily life. I feel stronger and more at ease physically than at any earlier point, and recalling how low and foggy I used to feel gives me a strong push to stay on track. Looking back at everything I've already come through and knowing I want to hold onto these changes keeps me moving ahead, since sliding backward would feel crushing.

RustQuill44archiveFeb 6

I've held back from many active hobbies purely because of my weight. I hope getting slimmer will change that. Still, after losing roughly sixty five pounds from my maximum, I keep thinking my appearance and how I feel haven't shifted at all. I guess that's an issue to work on.

SharpCinder28archiveFeb 7

The one thing pushing me forward every day is proving to the reta bros how great tirz turns out to be, lol.

GreenBeacon31archiveFeb 7
↳ replying to @WarmMarble27 (opening post)

My self-hatred leaves me fine with pumping inexpensive lab-made compounds sourced from China straight into my veins.

WarmMarble27archiveFeb 7
↳ replying to @CopperSignal27

Wow that is huge. Well done. Super happy for you. Glad you're reaping the rewards from the effort you've put in. And yes thank the stars for imports.

WarmMarble27archiveFeb 7
↳ replying to @SteadyAlder49

That's impressive progress! It's transformed completely and you've shed some weight too. I'm thrilled about your situation. Everything indicates a positive direction toward an improved and fitter existence. Muscles are beginning to appear faintly on me as well, which feels thrilling. This process has also triggered my tendency to hyperfocus due to ADHD. Stick with it, you'll appear fantastic in the Jag once acquired.

AmberMarble84archiveFeb 7

After having my baby my system stopped working right and the weight piled on. I need to feel like my former self by shedding those extra pounds mainly so both my child and I can stay well.

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