3 Powerful Lessons from Real People Who Lost 70+ Pounds

Losing weight is one of the most challenging yet rewarding journeys someone can undertake. Recently, I had the opportunity to speak with three incredible individuals who each lost over 70 pounds. Though their paths to success were unique, they all shared three transformative truths that made their weight loss journeys possible. These insights could inspire your own breakthrough moment.

  1. The Decision: Change Hit Like a Light Switch

For each of these individuals, the decision to change didn’t come gradually—it was a sudden realization, a moment of clarity. One person described it as a mental “light switch” flipping on. After years of struggling with habits and excuses, something finally clicked. Whether it was a health scare, a personal milestone, or a random moment of reflection, they reached a point where continuing on their current path was no longer an option. This mindset shift was the catalyst that set everything in motion.

Takeaway: You can’t force your light switch moment, but you can create an environment for it. Reflect on your goals and how your current habits align with them. Sometimes, that “click” is closer than you think.

  1. The Decision: Commitment Has No Scale

One of the most important lessons they shared was the power of embracing the journey—the good days, the bad days, and everything in between. They didn’t aim for perfection but instead committed to consistent effort. When setbacks happened, they learned from them rather than letting them derail their progress.

One individual shared how they struggled with binge eating early on but gradually developed strategies to manage those moments. Another spoke about how they had to adjust their workout routine multiple times to find what worked best for their body. Despite the ups and downs, they stayed the course.

Takeaway: Focus on progress, not perfection. Success comes from showing up every day and making small, sustainable changes.

  1. The Decision: Never Go Back

After months of hard work and seeing results, each person made a powerful decision: “Never go back.” This wasn’t just about keeping the weight off but about maintaining the mindset and habits that got them there. They stopped viewing their changes as temporary fixes and embraced them as a new way of life.

This mindset shift helped them navigate challenges like holidays, social events, and stress—all situations that previously derailed them. They found joy in their healthier lifestyle and couldn’t imagine returning to old habits.

Takeaway: Make your changes about more than just a number on the scale. Commit to building a lifestyle you love and can sustain.

Are You Ready for Your Light Switch Moment?

If you’re ready to change, take that first step. Reflect on what motivates you, set achievable goals, and commit to the process. Your “light switch” moment could happen today. And when it does, know that the journey won’t be perfect, but it will be worth it. You have the power to transform your life—one decision at a time.