Feeling demoralised about weight loss

[Stillheffalumpish]

New Year's resolution to lose weight, as my hips had crept up to 49 inches and I was (and still am) just fat. Didn't have scales, but thought I was between 12.5 and 13 stone. Have been going by the tape measure till now.

Watching my food - very occasional treats, but strict portion control, very limited alcohol now, much less sugar - being sensible, rather than letting it get out of control either way.
Much more exercise (from a base of about zero) - joined a gym to kick start things, and also started doing Parkrun, walking to work (5km) etc.

I bought some scales last week, because I thought I should check weight rather than just measuring myself. I know I've lost weight as my hips are now 46 inches, and my clothes are looser/old ones now fit. But I weighed myself when the scales arrived and I'm 13 stone 3lb. And I know this means I was probably more like 14 stone when I started, but I just feel massively demoralised that even though I've lost weight I'm still so heavy, and weigh so much more than I thought I did.

Don't be so hard on yourself. you've lost weight and you WILL continue to. You're not the first person who gets a shock on the scales. It just creeps on and before you know it, you're much heavier (in pounds) than you thought you were.

Positive thinking is key. YOU have the control to change this and lose those pounds. It may seem like an impossible task, but it really isn't. It's March now. With hard work and determination, you could be slim (or at least much, much slimmer) for the summer. Picture yourself then and not on how you look today.

Keep doing what you're doing and it will gradually come off. Don't let these little blips get in the way and remember inch loss will be more gradual than the odd lb but it's all in the right direction.

This time last year I was nearly 14 stone (nearly fell off the scales as I though I was 12 something ) but I'm only a few pounds of 9st something now and fitter than I've been since school!

Eta 3 inches off your hips is a massive achievement and whilst you might not notice that will be a whole dress size in 2 months. By summer you'll be another 2 sizes small at this rate

Thank you! I know it's going to be a long road, but I am determined to be fitter and healthier (with the side benefit of slimmer!) One of my "problems" is that I am in proportion, carrying most of the weight on my hips and thighs, so when I look at myself clothed I think I look okay. Then I see myself naked/weigh myself and it's a bit of a shock to the system all over again.

Thank you both for your words of encouragement.

You've done super well, you should feel totally motivated! It's hard losing and you are obviously doing all the right things, congratulations!