Dirty Thirty.....

I think my biggest tip is to be consistent. I'd been trying off and on for 5 years to drop 15-20 lbs., and I'd never stick with it. Starting in January, I promised myself that I would make myself exercise for at least a few minutes every single day. I know from experience that as soon as I take a day off, it means I'll take a month off (or more). Most days I got in more, but some days all I'd do was 5-10 minutes. What was important for me was that I made sure I did something every single day, even on the days I got home from work at midnight, even when I reeeally didn't feel like it, etc. I found that the "toneitup.com" website is amazing for workout ideas (and meal ideas), and they post videos on youtube, too.

Good luck!!!

I would love to hear any suggestions that you may have. Congrats on reaching your goal!

You can do it! I turn 30 in 2 weeks and had a goal to lose 20 lbs by my 30th. I've been a spark member for 3+ years but didn't get serious until early this year. I recently reached my goal with a little time to spare. I am happy to share workout ideas, meal ideas, etc.

Your name is very suggestive....you just made me hungry.....now I want a cookie. :/ Thank you :)

Thank you. I hope so too!

Thank you. I think I am excited about this....breaking down goals seems like a good idea to me. I have learned that I often am very impatient and want instant gratifications in every area of my life. I want to be skinny now, I want to be perfect at everything I do now, I think I need to stop and smell the roses and enjoy the trip.

Welcome aboard!

Cookie

Hi and welcome to SparkPeople. There are so many great tools and great people involved with this site. I'm sure that SP can help you along on your journey to a healthy lifestyle. Good luck reaching your goals!

WELCOME TO SPARK!!!
Congrats on taking the first step into changing your life to a more healthier one by joining the site. Spark is filled with amazing people that will motivate, support and encourage you on your journey. There is so much to learn and discover here, take this one day at a time. A couple of things I would like to suggestion to make you Spark experience a great one.

1. Make goals for yourself. Each month I make a list of what I want to accomplish that month and break them down to smaller goals to work with week by week. This way the BIG picture doesn't seem so big.

2. Join Spark teams. There are tons of teams here and you will be able to find ones that fit to what you like or want in a team.

The key to success here is to be active and you've already started by joining. You will find that everyone is willing to help you out if you need it. Spark friends are here for support, motivation and encouragement. Good luck on your journey to a healthier lifestyle! Again, welcome to the SP family!
*~ Paula *~

Sooooo October 15th, 2013 is my 30th birthday. 30 years old....30. I feel like I have accomplished nothing so far in life except for getting wider. I'm hoping to lose 30 lbs by my 30th birthday. I plan on doing this by setting these monthly goals:

Month one: Eat Clean
Month two: Eat Clean and Control Portions
Month three: Eat Clean, Control Portions, and Exercise

I tend to get sick of foods quickly, so I really would like any suggestions on how to spice things up.

I'm really focusing on only eating white meats, fruits that don't contain much sugar, veggies, and nuts....I'm trying to get gluten out of the equation. I love spicy foods, but I think my diet is mainly Paleo with very little dairy, or grain....

Anyway, I hope to meet some like minded people that I can get through this with. Hope to meet some soon.

Bye. :)