Exploring Non-Scale Victories on the Weight Loss Surgery Journey
If you’re on the weight loss surgery journey, it can be very tempting to determine your progress by the number on the scale. It’s important to remember that success goes beyond the scale and instead reflect on the incredible transformations happening inside and outside of your body. We refer to those transformations as non-scale victories – those amazing moments of triumph that go beyond the numbers on the scale.
We’ve all been obsessed with the scale at some point. For many of us, those numbers have the power to dictate our mood and self-worth. Especially for women, thanks to natural hormone variations, it’s not uncommon to see temporary increases in water retention or ‘water weight’ on the scale. However, that ‘extra weight’ has nothing to do with what you’ve eaten or how often you exercise.
We understand that seeing those extra numbers show up on the scale can be disheartening and deflate your mood, which is why celebrating the little (and not-so-little) victories that go beyond the scale is so important.
Weight loss surgery isn’t about seeking a quick fix, but rather giving yourself the tools to create a healthier life. Instead of always focusing on the scale or your weight, it’s important to celebrate the achievements that have improved your life. Otherwise, you’ll end up feeling mentally drained and struggle to stay motivated.
“It’s not just about losing the weight; it’s about losing the lifestyle and mindset that got you there.” – Steve Maraboli
What are Non-Scale Victories?
Of course, losing weight is often the number one goal of bariatric surgery, but there are so many other results you will notice that go beyond weight loss. Non-scale victories are the positive changes, achievements, and improvements in various aspects of your life that occur as a result of pursuing a healthier lifestyle. It’s those moments when you suddenly realise your jeans aren’t as snug, you’re climbing stairs without feeling breathless, or you’re able to keep up with your energetic kids. These victories are your body’s way of saying, “Hey, look what I can do now!”.
How Do They Impact Your Mental Health?
Non-scale victories play a role in supporting your mental health by shifting the focus from numbers to your overall wellbeing. These achievements provide confirmation of your progress and capability, and let you look at your progress from a different perspective. As they validate efforts and foster a sense of accomplishment, non-scale victories ultimately nurture a healthier and more positive mental state throughout your weight loss or health journey.
Examples of Non-Scale Victories
These victories are significant milestones that encompass a wide range of physical, mental, emotional, and even social accomplishments. Some common examples of non-scale victories include:
- Improved energy levels and feeling more energetic and alert throughout the day, without relying on stimulants like caffeine.
- Enhanced mobility, such as being able to move more comfortably and easily, whether it’s crossing your legs, tying your shoe lace up, or getting up from a chair.
- Clothes fitting more comfortably or having to go down a size.
- Feeling more confident in your body and appearance.
- Successfully completing physical challenges or activities you couldn’t do before, such as walking up the stairs at work, doing a certain number of exercise reps or hiking a trail.
- Seeing improvements in health markers such as blood pressure, blood sugar levels, cholesterol levels, and overall cardiovascular health. This can mean medication reductions or stopping medications all together.
- Experiencing better sleep patterns and waking up feeling more rested and rejuvenated. Not using a CPAP machine anymore is a wonderful achievement.
- Noticing a decrease in stress levels and an improved ability to manage stress in daily life.
- Feeling more mentally focused and clear-headed as a result of healthier lifestyle choices.
- Experiencing less bloating, indigestion, or discomfort after meals due to healthier eating habits.
- Feeling happier and more positive, potentially as a result of a combination of physical activity, improved nutrition, and better self-care practices.
- Building stronger connections with friends and family as you engage in social activities that are more aligned with your healthier lifestyle.
- Being able to sustain physical activities for longer periods without feeling overly tired or out of breath.
- Establishing healthier habits in areas like hydration, meal planning, and regular exercise.
- Remember, non-scale victories look different for everyone. What matters most is how these victories make you feel and contribute to your overall wellbeing and happiness.
Navigating Challenges After Weight Loss Surgery
Weight plateaus and challenges are common experiences after weight loss surgery, but that doesn’t mean you’ve fallen off the wagon or ‘failed’. The next time you feel defeated by the scales, reflect on all of the positive changes you’ve experienced since weight loss surgery. Whether that’s by writing a list of all the non-scale victories relevant to you, reaching out to family and friends, or discussing your experiences with your weight loss surgery team.
Don’t forget to visit our resources page for more advice on navigating your weight loss journey.