Life was passing me by ...now I can do anything
Mental toughness, a concept used in psychology and behaviour change that has been studied within the sports field for many years, is linked to characteristics such as keeping a clear focus on goals even when under pressure.
Slimming World group members are empowered to increase commitment, gain control, improve confidence and overcome challenges*.
– somewhere I could just be Michelle.
A few months later, and around 4st down,
I was feeling great. Then I had a bit of a surprise – I was pregnant again. The news threw me. Of course, I was happy, but I was just starting to find myself. I was so worried that I’d be overwhelmed by motherhood and undo all the progress I’d made – both with my weight and my confidence.
My Consultant was fantastic though, and explained that because Slimming World works with the Royal College of Midwives, I could safely follow the plan throughout my pregnancy with a few tweaks to make sure I was getting enough of the extra nutrients I needed.
I realised I didn’t have to undo everything just because I was pregnant, I could still do this.
In fact, I think my experience of being part of a Slimming World group really helped me handle that situation. It kept me focused on my goals, even when the curveball of the pregnancy was thrown in, and I felt determined and in control. After finding the world overwhelming for so long, I now felt I could handle whatever life had to throw at me.
In December 2020, we welcomed our lovely boy Ivan, and this time, I was in such a better place mentally. It wasn’t until he was born that I realised I had hardly any photographs of me with the girls because I was always hiding behind the camera.
I continued with my healthy eating after Ivan was born, and at 8st lighter, I’ve never felt better. It doesn’t feel like I’m living half a life any more, I’m living it to the full. I’ve gone from a mum who would dread having to do the school run to being the kind of person who clocks up miles with the double buggy. I wish my pram had a pedometer because I’d love to know how far we’ve walked.
We recently celebrated Ivan’s first birthday and it made me reflect on just how far I’ve come. I felt great on the day and didn’t worry about what clothes would hide me the most. I was just in the moment with my family, and it was wonderful.
I know my mum would be proud of the life I’m living now – a life I’m living for both of us.