40's with 100+ lbs to Lose

I have decided that I am giving up negativity for lent. No, I am not Catholic but I am tired. Tired of looking in the mirror and finding things to pick about and not staying focused. I want to lose weight and I have allowed my food and negativity, depression and lack of willpower to control the situation and life for me. Today I got up on the right side of the dirt, yesterday, I signed up for a free health assessment. I have looked into the future and failed, I have looked into the past and have seen all of my failures. Do I ever see the positive? Do I ever see all the good that I have done for myself and others? My kids are 21 and 17. When do I stop putting them first and me last. NEVER! I am a mom. BUT, that doesn't mean that I can't do for myself because they need. They just need me in a different way and I need to let the older version of mom go and see what the new version can do. I need to get exercise. I can do it because my kids don't need to have someone home when they arrive. They are old enough to get in the door on their own. They need a ride to the mall? They can wait until I am done with whatever it is I am doing. Need a ride to work? That is different. I am me and I need to start on a positive note everyday and end on one as well. Today my positive was getting up, showering, and getting all the laundry and dishes done. What does tomorrow hold?

Good for you Tina. It's time you put yourself first. I am a mom too, and like you find myself putting everyone's needs ahead of my own. Then sometimes get a little moody and find myself being short or feeling unappreciated. But, the key is learning to appreciate ourselves! Good Luck

That is great news, Tina. Losing the negativity can do wonders in one's life. Before I could put myself first one thing I had to realize is that putting myself first does not have to equal neglecting others. And being humble and caring for others does not mean neglecting myself.

In fact my family is the most important part of my life. So putting myself first actually includes having more family time and a better relationship with my kids. In the long run, everybody will be better off.