Hey there. Weight loss is often portrayed as a game, but few of us are ever told how to actually win. We’re handed a set of rules, strict routines, and lofty goals disguised as the ultimate solution. “Follow these steps, adopt this mindset, and want it badly enough,” they say. Yet the reality of winning this game is far simpler—and far more personal—than we’re led to believe.

The truth is, the key to lasting success lies in building a solid foundation. It starts with taking a hard look at who you are as a person, inside and out. This isn’t about chasing a number on the scale or adhering to rigid expectations. It’s about learning to appreciate and accept your body for what it is, right now. When you build this foundation, everything else becomes easier.

The Weight Loss Trap

We’re conditioned to believe that success equals hitting a goal weight and staying there. But what happens when you reach that number? For many, it becomes a mental prison. Suddenly, you’re no longer focused on losing weight—you’re consumed with maintaining it. Without a solid foundation, regain becomes inevitable, and you’re left wondering, “What now?”

Instead of fixating on a single number, consider a weight range. A buffer of 10–20 pounds allows for flexibility and balance. You’re more likely to relax and enjoy life when you’re not obsessing over every pound.

Starting Where You Are

Sustainable progress comes from working with your preferences and abilities. What do you enjoy? What are you capable of right now? Start there. The momentum you build when you align your actions with your preferences is powerful—and it happens faster than you might think.

We’ve been conditioned to believe that weight loss itself needs to happen quickly. But the real speed comes from focusing on what you can do today, building on that foundation, and adjusting as you go.

Momentum Comes from Action

Another misconception is that momentum drives action. The truth is, your actions create momentum. When you’re doing activities you genuinely enjoy, it’s easier to pick them back up after a break. There’s no need for an all-or-nothing mindset. You can ease back into it.

I’ve experienced this firsthand. Managing cerebral palsy has taught me the importance of adapting my approach to fitness. A recent foot injury forced me to scale back my steps from 10,000+ a day to just 3,000 at one point. Now, I’m building back up to 6,000 steps daily—manageable, sustainable progress that works for me.

Appreciating Your Body

One of the most profound shifts in my journey was learning to love and appreciate my body. Living with CP means I’ve had to adapt and overcome challenges my entire life. I’ve stopped comparing myself to others—whether it’s people with CP or those without physical limitations. Instead, I focus on what my body can do and how I can make the most of it.

The Mental Game

The weight loss industry thrives on our insecurities. We’re bombarded with images of “perfect” bodies, but none of that defines your worth. Your value comes from who you are, not how you look.

Changing your outward appearance won’t fix what’s missing inside. If you’ve been running from your insecurities, it’s time to face them. Learn to appreciate yourself, work toward self-acceptance, and eventually self-love. This inside-out approach will transform not just your fitness journey, but your entire life.

If you’re ready to stop chasing perfection and start building a sustainable, preference-based approach to fitness, join The YLF Experience today. Get personalized support, tools, and strategies to create the foundation you need for long-term success. Sign up here.