Before and After ~ Morgan

Morgan

Nothing in Life Comes Easy!

After being inspired by her mother, Morgan made up her mind that she was ready to live a different life.  She was so committed that she lost 59 pounds in just 11 months!  Read the interview to hear how she has been so successful!
Name: Morgan Age: 25 Weight Loss Plan: Low carb/Calorie Counting Weight Loss: 59 pounds in 11 months Biggest Change: Confidence

What led you to being overweight?

Food became a comfort for me when I moved schools in the fourth grade.

What prompted you to make a change?

I saw my mother lose weight and I realized that at the age of 23, I was too young to be so unhealthy in my living. Also, I was about to end my journey of my college experience and wanted to leave being a few pounds lighter.

Why were you successful THIS TIME? What was different from your previous attempts to lose weight?

I actually stuck to it and I had accountability partners. I had a well thought out plan. I had people in the fitness field and also people who had experience with successful weight loss and maintenance on my team.

What program did you follow to lose weight?

I cut out carbs for the first few months.  I only ate 2 pieces of turkey bacon and some fruit for breakfast, a michelina’s for lunch, and chicken breast and salad for dinner. If I needed a snack, I would have a Nutri-Grain bar and some fruit. As I started incorporating carbs back into my diet, I cut my calorie count down to 1500 calories or less per day.

How did you stay committed and focused after the initial honeymoon stage?

I knew the goal that I wanted to reach and was determined to get to it!  I also had accountability partners that would not let me have all my weight loss negated because of an emotional feeling.

How do you avoid emotional eating and/or binge eating?

I try to get at least 8 hours of sleep a night along with finding activities to do with friends and family to keep me occupied.

What were the key lifestyle changes that you HAD to make in order to be successful?

I had to make up my mind first and foremost that I was tired of living the way I was and that I personally wanted a different lifestyle despite what anyone had to say. Also, I had to keep people around me that were going to be helpful to me and wanted to see me reach my goals. I also became more involved in my relationship with God and incorporated that into everything I did.

What online tools or apps do you use to manage your weight?

I use the Fitbit activity tracker.

What do you do for exercise?

I do 20 minutes of cardio and 20-30 minutes of weights focusing on my problem areas (stomach and back of upper arms).

How do you handle friends or family that try to sabotage your efforts?

Luckily I haven’t had to deal with this.  However, I would tell people that it is perfectly okay to cut people out of your life that don’t want the best for you.

What is the biggest difference in your life since the weight loss?

My confidence has definitely went up and I’m able to be more outgoing.

What do you still struggle with?

Staying consistent. This is a lifestyle change not just a diet.

What would you say to someone who thinks they cannot be successful with their own weight loss?

You can do it!  It will be hard, but you can do it. A year from now you’ll be able to look back and say “I did that!”

What mantra/quote/scripture do you rely on when things are difficult?

• Nothing in Life Comes Easy.
• I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
• Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

How can people connect with you online?

FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/MorganAlexandriaD
INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/morgiethemermaid

I hope you are inspired and motivated by Morgan’s weight loss story.  Connect with her on Facebook and Instagram!

Do you have your own success story to share?  Please submit your story so you can motivate and inspire others to do the same!