I can't believe I didn't notice this thread earlier, because it's such a good topic to discuss.

I've lost weight in the past, was able to sort of keep most of it off, and then ended up gaining the weight back because of depression, being overwhelmed, and neglecting myself. Well over a year ago I decided to take ownership of my health, and weight loss was going to be a sub-task underneath that goal.

The reason why I'm responding to this is because we all forget the end goal shouldn't just be about the weight loss. Yes, it's great to lose weight if you're overweight; there are significant health benefits; weight loss is a great confidence and energy booster; reaching a healthy weight can extend your life. We're all aware of these things and should ever discount them.

But it's easy to get wrapped up in the idea of weight loss as the final determinant behind our health goals. Then we get wrapped up in our size, and we could be reaching a healthier weight, have better health, and even start to get ripped muscles, but we're too focused on one of the numbers we lose sight.

I've also decided weight loss shouldn't be my only goal. I remind myself I need to make this lifelong-- when I have children I want to set an example for healthy habits and not cover everything up in what's the "right" weight. I want to do this to extend my life, and reach my grandmother's age without suffering the health problems she unfortunately experiences. My health goals have reduced depression symptoms dramatically, and it's helped me think more clearly and manage my emotional state better, even when things do get rough. I keep all of these things in mind.