You Could Learn A Lot From A 300 Pound Woman

I was recently asked to direct a documentary on obesity. The subject of the documentary will go on a year long journey to lose 100 pounds. She currently weighs 301 pounds. She’s “metabolically healthy” which means that in spite of the weight, she doesn’t currently have heart disease, diabetes, cancer or any other diseases.

Still, she knows that being 300 pounds is unhealthy – she’s obese. And not only is she committed to losing the weight, she’s keeping herself accountable by having me, a team of producers, and an entire crew documenting the process.

I’ve had to spend quite a bit of time getting to know her and her struggles with her weight, and I have to tell you that I’ve been unbelievably inspired. She’s one of the bravest people I know. I can’t say that I would be willing to do what she’s doing…could you?

There are some important lessons I’ve learned from watching her and I’m sharing them with you today (and I’ll be giving you the behind the scenes scoop of the production once we’re shooting).

Believe in yourself.
She believes in herself and in her ability to do this. If she didn’t, all of this would be pointless. Do you believe in yourself? Maybe your challenge or addiction is something different – no matter what it is, your success starts with believing that you can do what you’ve committed to doing.

Seek out support.
She came to me a year ago and was very candid about her desire to lose weight. I put her in touch with an amazing celebrity trainer I know and she has continued to work with her. She’s lost 32 pounds so far and she’s toned up significantly. It’s been amazing to watch her mental strength improve as her physical strength improved. Who can you reach out to for support on your journey? Maybe it’s a family member or friend. Find a group of people who can and will support you as you grow.

Put your thoughts and plans on paper.
I thought I wrote a lot – this woman has got me beat! She has stacks and stacks of paper – information, plans, ideas, outlines – it’s amazing to see her level of dedication to sorting through the details of her plan. Where are your dreams and plans? Do you have a binder or notebook for them? Get it out of your head and on paper. Writing creates clarity and frees you to really explore an idea.

Maybe you’re not trying to lose 100 pounds…maybe you want to climb out of debt or start a business. Create an environment that supports your success and make it happen!

Stay tuned for updates on this project.

Inspired Journaling Prompt: What’s missing from your success process? What do you need to do to be completely supported and on task to succeed?

Inspired Action: Take a specific action that moves you closer to an important goal. Call that friend, write out that plan, get going. Nothing in life works unless you do.