Is 5#'s a month a realistic goal

Good Morning

Just wanted to get some input, don't want to set myself up for setting unrealistic goals.
I am 4 years out RNY, lost 185#'s have never gotten to my goal my lowest weight was 206 and then I was up to 232. I am down 11#'s since starting group.  Well I am gonna make 2010 my year for all my goals.

Question Does 5 #'s per month seem realistic?

The groups I am in have me so motivated on facts that I already know I am just so ready to make this happen, yesterday.

Please tell me what you think and I welcome any tips...

Melva

Good Morning Melva,

Setting goals is good but we must remember our bodies sometimes don't always give what we would like; 5lbs. plus is a month is realistic goal.  I'm sure you have a plan.  I'll take 5lbs. anyway and anytime I can get it.

Protein, exercise, water and commitment will get you there.  I remember my doctor told me after the "Honeymoon" period weight loss would be difficult...I just didn't realize how difficult.  I'm still trying to make it to my goal of 145 by trying to stay on track.  We will get there..slow and steady always wins the race.

Dreamgirl119

Thanx Dreamgirl

I am committed, heard that weight loss was slower after the honeymoon period, just didn't want to set my self up this is the first time I am actually giving it all I got to get what I want, yes I am drinking water and protein and I have faithfully started journaling.

Yes ma'am I will take Slow Over No....
Saw your Pict. you look great..

Melva

Melva I do think 5 lbs is realistic of course at the same time if you dont meet it, reflect on the positive things you did that month to keep you going.

I'm trying to get BOT myself and so I come to these boards often to remind myself everyday of the things I know I should be doing and why, etc.  I find reading about how other people are following the rules are being successful tells me there is no reason I can't do the same.

Here is to a successful 2010!

Thank You

Melva

Hi Melva,

I admire you wanting to set goals to lose your weight.  When we make up our minds to get back on track, we (or at least I do) want it NOW.

I would encourage you not to set a number.  The reason I say that is because I can get all caught up in the numbers.  If I do really well with my eating and exercise and I don't lose what I think I should or reach the number goal I have, then I tend to get frustrated and give up or become less committed.  I used to live by the numbers when I regained 30 pounds - if I lose 5 pounds a month for the next six months then I'll relose my regained weight.  Problem was that sometimes I made the 5 pounds and sometimes I didn't.  Like Dreamgirl pointed out, it is much harder and slower to lose weight as we become further out post-op. 

Consider setting a goal of staying on track with your eating and exercise without a goal weight loss figure.  For me, being on track is eating on track every day of the month with the exception of 2-3 days (if I choose those 2-3 days at a max) and exercise 5 days a week.  I learned to do that when I regained weight.  The results were whatever they were.  I knew I was doing my best when I stayed on track.

I hope that makes sense.  If not, let me know.  Following what I shared with you enabled me to lose my regained weight and stay on track now.  I am certainly not perfect but it is much more a habit and a part of my life than ever before. 

For me, the numbers made me compulsive and was really a throw-back from my dieting career with Weigh****chers, Jenny Craig, etc.  Live the lifestyle of staying on track with eating, exercise, and personal growth!!

BOTT POWER!

Cathy

Thank You Cathy

That makes a lot of sense...Melva

I think 5 lbs a month is realistic - but not carved in stone.  Some months you may lose more and some months less.  Even though I'm maintaining, I still MUST plan my food ahead of time and follow my food and exercise plan.  (I don't journal my exercise because I don't want to fall into the trap of "I exercised 100 calories, so I can eat more"  If I do this, I may become discouraged, but I know I have done everything RIGHT so am much more able to avoid a pitty party. 

Thanks Happy Journaling is excellent idea will make sure I am keeping up with 
Melva

Melva...I am working to get back on track like you....I am having some difficulty getting the scale to move...however the first 5 weeks I did lose 10# but the bulk of that was in the first week and now I am seeing very little movement despite eating, drinking and vits....I think now all i need to do is MOVE more but a very hectic schedule is interfeering....all replys to your post are good advice but like others i am impatient.....I do feel better! and I am holding the right course!  I just have to keep the scale moving in the right direction and hope that eventually my efforts will pay off.  Best Wishes to you!