OT: Building a life

Hey Everyone, OK, so I'm approaching 6 mths and a little over 100 lbs lost and honestly feeling really good. (I just posted some pics if anyone is curious). Anyway, here is the thing. I resolved when I had this surgery that it would be more than just weight loss. I've spent too much of my life on the sidelines. So I've resolved to break out of my shell and get out there. Since surgery, I've really tried to get out there and meet people, but I'm kinda disappointed with the results. I feel like I'm starting a race that everyone else is already half done with. Anyway, I was curious if anyone else has had this problem. Any solutions? I'm taking all sorts of classes and meeting people and taking advantage of all LA has to offer, but I still struggle socially.

I don't have any advice for you because I am going through the same thing.  I am starting my first real job in Jan and moving to a new place and I'm so excited to start my new life, but have no idea how to meet people!  I am just starting my weight loss journey, but I'm tired of being held back by my weight and ready to start new.  best of luck to you and maybe we'll get some good advice from others

What you are experiencing is GRADE A TYPICAL. . .  Being somewhat withdrawn and socially inexperienced seems to go hand-in-hand with morbid obesity.  For the first year+ I was very aware of my feelings of inadequacy and arrested development. . .in some shape, it is almost like reliving my adolescence.   What I am learning is that I cannot force it; I cannot condense 15 years of missing out into a few months (or years) in hopes of "catching up".  Becoming more of who you are (if that makes sense) is a gradual process, and you are not denying yourself anything by using this period to adjust.  Pardon the cliche', but it really is okay to stick your entire foot in the deep end, and be willing to pull it back out , if need be. . . Use this time to learn who you are, what your limits are, what your interests are. . .and continue to meet people.  As you become more certain of things about yourself, you will find people who are drawn to you.  Give yourself time.  ~Erin