New Year’s Eve 2022 will forever be burned on to my memory. I had tickets for an event but, while I was getting ready, I realised that none of my ‘going out’ clothes fitted me properly – everything I tried was too tight and uncomfortable. After working my way through my entire wardrobe, I just sat on the floor and cried. I ended up cancelling on my friends and staying in the house by myself. On New Year’s Day, I messaged my local Slimming World Consultant – and a few days later, I was sitting in group.
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That year was one of total transformation for me. I started following Slimming World’s healthy eating plan, Food Optimising, and I saw results straight away. That motivated me to keep going, and I hit my target weight of 11st 2lbs in December – just a few weeks before New Year’s Eve 2023.
Since then, so much has changed. Obviously, I’ve lost weight and I’m now a comfortable size 12 instead of a 16/18 – but it’s about much more than that. Having the amazing support of my Slimming World group gave me so much confidence. I’m a primary school teacher, and I always felt so self-conscious about standing up in front of everyone. Now I’m totally fine delivering assemblies from the front of the hall. During my Slimming World journey I even applied for a new position, which I started in September.
Before that, though, there’s another huge moment that I really can’t wait for... I’m getting married in August! I’ve always dreamed of a princess-style wedding, and feeling beautiful and confident in my wedding dress is a big part of that. I recently had my hen do and felt fantastic in a little white sparkly dress – something I could never have dreamed of wearing before. Now I know that I’m going to feel good on the day, and on our honeymoon afterwards. The thought of wearing a swimsuit used to fill me with dread, but not any more.
I’m a lot more active as well, which is something that’s encouraged as you lose weight with Slimming World – although you’re never pushed or pressured into exercise, it’s all about doing what you enjoy, at your own pace. I go to the gym and run – I’m up to 35 minutes on the treadmill, which is a big achievement for me! Feeling fitter really helps in my job, too, as I’ve got the energy to join in with the children’s activities instead of watching from the sidelines.
In fact, the only thing that hasn’t changed much since I joined Slimming World is what I eat! I love pasta and I still have it every day, without feeling guilty or like I’m doing something wrong. I also love steak and chips, meatballs and burgers. I’ve just made a few tweaks that mean I can enjoy my favourite meals and still lose weight.
I eat out once or twice a month, staying away from fried or breaded food and sticking to tomato-based pasta dishes, fish or steak instead. With Slimming World, there’s absolutely no reason to stop doing the things you enjoy, and group is a great place to get ideas that’ll help you stay on track when you’re eating out or enjoying special occasions. I also use the app to log my food every day. It’s really easy to use and helps me stick to Food Optimising, so that I can keep up my weight loss long-term.
Thinking back to that horrible New Year’s Eve... I knew I wanted to make changes, but I never imagined that my life would change so much. I love my new job, and I’ve got some incredible things to look forward to this year, with my wedding and honeymoon on the horizon. It feels like all my dreams are coming true – and I’m fully able to enjoy every moment.
What’s on your wish list for 2024?
Joining Slimming World gave Ellie the confidence to go for what she truly wanted – and you can absolutely have that, too. Whatever your dream, together, we can help you achieve it.
Weight loss will vary due to your individual circumstances and how much weight you have to lose.