I’ve always had a sweet tooth. In my teens I worked in a convenience shop, where I’d indulge in the chocolate and sweets. My family joked that when they took me out for a meal, I’d eye up the dessert menu before my main course had even arrived!
At university I loved going out with the girls, but I didn’t feel very confident due to my size. I bought diet magazines by the armful. I’d try out all the latest quick-fix diets and lose weight, but they weren’t sustainable so I’d just pile the weight back on.
I met my boyfriend, Tom, in a nightclub four years ago and, always being the sort to put myself down, fretted over why a fit person like him wanted to go out with me! We moved to Liverpool together and I started a job working with vulnerable young adults, which meant handling some very tough situations. When I got stressed, I’d start raiding the fridge for sweet treats like treacle tart and custard.
I wasn’t happy with the way I looked and never wanted to socialise. Instead, Tom and I would spend nights in on the sofa with takeaways, bottles of wine and bucket loads of my favourite ice cream. My weight crept up even more...
I decided to resign from my job, and I secretly joined my local Slimming World group. I didn’t tell anyone at first, because I didn’t want to look silly if I didn’t succeed. My Consultant was lovely and told me all about Food Optimising. It felt so straightforward to follow, and I was amazed that I could still enjoy my favourite foods. I even managed to eat out with friends in my first week, without anyone noticing I was slimming.
I loved the fact that I didn’t have to make huge changes to my eating to see results; just small tweaks.
It’s amazing how quickly my tastes have changed. I still enjoy chocolate, but I no longer need my daily fix. I now love jogging and dream of running the London Marathon one day. My skin is glowing and I’ve actually got cheekbones!
On a recent shopping trip, I had to ask a shop assistant to bring me size 10 trousers to try on because the 12s were too big. I was so proud! I went straight home for an online spending spree and bought three gorgeous dresses.
My new-found confidence has given me the push to get back into work. I used to keep Slimming World a secret; now I shout it from the rooftops – four of my friends have joined and I’m even thinking about becoming a Consultant. There’s no going back – gone are the days of putting myself down. I feel I can do anything now!
*Weight loss will vary due to your individual circumstances and how much weight you have to lose.