Overcoming the ‘Only Lost’ Mindset: Encouragement and Tips for Every Step of Your GLP-1 Journey

Scale photo credit – Photo by Samuel Ramos on Unsplash

In the whirlwind of beginning a weight loss journey, especially one that involves GLP-1 medications, it’s easy to find ourselves stuck in the loop of “only lost.” This mindset, where every achievement feels small, and every step forward feels incomplete, can steal the joy of our progress and make the journey seem longer and harder than it truly is. If you’ve ever felt like your hard work isn’t “enough” or found yourself comparing your progress to others, you’re not alone. This isn’t just a journey of weight loss; it’s also one of self-discovery, healing, and learning to celebrate each victory—no matter the size.

Let’s imagine a different path forward: one that embraces each milestone sees the big picture, and holds space for the everyday magic that self-love brings. Every inch of progress has meaning. Every effort, whether in the foods you choose, the routines you build, or the self-talk you practice, is a part of this beautiful, transformative journey. Shifting away from the “only lost” mentality can lead to a mindset of growth, hope, and self-acceptance, nurturing the energy needed to keep moving forward.

This journey isn’t one you have to face alone. Together, we’ll explore simple ways to replace discouragement with excitement and fear with belief. We’ll dive into what it means to be on a GLP-1 path, embracing the small steps that add to lasting transformation. Ready to embark on this uplifting adventure? Let’s set the stage for a new perspective on progress.

I ‘Only Lost’ [insert your loss here]

Multiple times a day, when I pop into Facebook or Reddit, I see numerous posts from the GLP-1 community. They generally start out by expressing frustration or asking ‘what am I doing wrong?’ followed by “I only lost…..”

And this is what I copy from my iNotes and paste into the comments. 

• First, you must remove “I only lost” from your vocabulary and replace it with “I lost…”
• Second, ask yourself if you could have lost the weight without the meds. No? Okay, keep going. Yes? Then why are you taking them? 
• Weight loss should be 0.5-2.0lb a week. Fluctions and stalls are normal. They can and will happen.
• Any more than that can cause many more problems in the long term of your journey.
• When people experience a huge drop in weight the first week, it’s often due to water weight and loss of inflammation. Don’t compare yourself to others. 
• We don’t know what you’re eating.
• We don’t know if your protein is high enough.
• We don’t know what your workouts are like. 
• We don’t know if you’re hydrating. 
• We don’t know your side effects or any other health issues.
• We don’t know your age or starting weight or how tall you are.
• Our journey is unique to us.  All of these things make a difference in YOUR journey. Because that’s what this is. Yours. Don’t compare yourself to what others are doing.
• There are SO MANY factors at play that explain why people drop weight at the rate they do. 

Here are a few reasons why we’re different:

Don’t put so much value into what you read on social media. Instead, value yourself and remember that every pound you release is a step in the right direction, no matter what your speed.

Track those measurements, track those non-scale victories, and if you are not tracking your calories, do that. You would be surprised at how many are eating more than they think they are. 

You want to be slow and steady in this race. You want to take the time to learn and understand your body and proper nutrition. This isn’t a quick-fix diet. This is a lifestyle overhaul, so you will never return to this space again.

Breaking Free from the ‘Only Lost’ Mindset

When we begin any transformative journey, the tendency to focus on “what’s missing” or “what’s not yet achieved” is all too common. For many on a GLP-1 journey, this mindset can become a constant companion, dimming the light of progress. Here, we’ll look at ways to recognize and rewrite this mindset, allowing space for true growth and self-love.

First, understand that the journey is uniquely yours. The GLP-1 approach is a significant step that carries different experiences for everyone involved. Comparing your path to anyone else’s can steal the joy and energy that should be going toward your well-being. Begin by recognizing each choice, each day, as a step forward. Whether it’s a healthier meal, a longer walk, or a gentle self-reminder, celebrate these efforts as milestones on your unique path.

The ‘only lost’ mindset can feel overwhelming, but with each self-affirming habit, you’ll find it easier to let go of the need for perfection. Journaling, visualization, or even just pausing to reflect on a small victory can remind you that this journey is about so much more than a number on a scale. Embrace your story with grace, gratitude, and a deep sense of self-acceptance.

Embracing Every Win, No Matter How Small

It’s often the little things that fuel our long-term journey. Whether it’s a day where you felt more energetic, a week of stable blood sugar, or the courage to try a new recipe, these moments are what make your story unique. Embracing every win, big or small, can cultivate resilience and joy, bringing energy to each step you take.

To start, keep a log of “small wins” or moments of progress each week. Each entry could be a simple sentence about something that went well or something you accomplished. On challenging days, you’ll have this list to remind you of your hard work and the steady pace of your progress. Small victories fuel motivation and provide the perspective needed to see the bigger picture.

In addition to logging small wins, find a way to celebrate them. This could be a special journal, a small ritual, or even treating yourself to a favorite hobby or indulgence. By honoring these moments, you’re building a relationship with yourself that’s rooted in encouragement and self-compassion, making it easier to push forward without slipping into the “only lost” mindset.

Nurturing Self-Love as Part of the Journey

Self-love isn’t always easy when you’re striving for change. In the middle of goals and ambitions, putting self-kindness on hold is tempting, especially when the journey seems daunting. However, learning to treat yourself with care can provide the strength you need to continue moving forward with resilience and hope.

Start by reframing your journey as an act of love for yourself. You’re doing this to feel more comfortable, energetic, and healthier. Every step, every small change, is an expression of care. Self-love can look like rest when you’re tired, nutritious meals when you’re hungry, and gentle words when you’re feeling down.

Integrate simple self-love practices into your routine. Maybe it’s dedicating five minutes each morning to setting an intention or expressing gratitude for your body. Embracing yourself as you are now while still striving toward your goals can free you from the idea that self-worth is tied only to results. This journey is one of healing, growth, and acceptance; each day is a chance to practice self-love in all its forms.

Building a Supportive Community for Lasting Encouragement

No journey is complete without support, and the GLP-1 journey is no exception. Seeking community can be a source of motivation and accountability, encouraging you when you need it most. Building connections with others on a similar path can also inspire, reminding you that you’re not alone in your journey.

Begin by finding groups, forums, or local meet-ups where people are on similar paths. These communities can offer insights, shared experiences, and a safe space for discussing the unique challenges that come with a GLP-1 journey. Engaging with others can alleviate feelings of isolation, helping you see the value of your journey through a broader lens.

Additionally, consider creating a “support system circle.” Identify friends, family members, or mentors who can be your cheerleaders, listening when you need to talk and celebrating when you progress. When the “only lost” mindset starts to creep in, leaning on these supportive relationships can help you stay focused on the positive aspects of your journey.

Reflecting on the Journey: A Path of Growth and Self-Discovery

As you move forward, take time to reflect on how far you’ve come and where you want to go. Reflection provides the chance to see each chapter of your journey as part of a greater story—one that’s built not just on weight loss but on growth, resilience, and self-understanding. This journey is about embracing all aspects of yourself, past, present, and future.

Consider setting aside time each month to journal or meditate on your journey. Reflect on the goals you’ve achieved and those you’re still working toward. This ritual of reflection can offer a clear view of your progress, making it easier to appreciate the journey and avoid getting stuck in the “only lost” mindset.

Allow yourself the grace to continue, even if days don’t go as planned. This path is about progress, not perfection. By nurturing a sense of curiosity and wonder, you’ll find that this journey is rich with learning, growth, and joy, helping you move forward with an open heart.

Join Me for More Inspiration Over Coffee

Every step of the GLP-1 journey is a chance to learn, grow, and redefine your approach to wellness. By focusing on the small wins, nurturing self-love, and building a supportive community, you’re making strides toward a fulfilling and empowering experience. There’s so much more to explore and learn on this path, and I’d love to share it with you. Come back for more posts, insights, and moments of encouragement. Let’s meet up for coffee—virtual or otherwise—and make this journey one that inspires self-love every step of the way.

 Like what you read? Drop me a line – let’s chat over virtual coffee. 

~ Chrystal 

Check out some of my recent weight loss & Zepbound-related posts:

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• My Key Takeaways from “Fast Weight Loss” by Jenny Furlow
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• The Inside Story of Weight-Loss Medications: A Review of Johann Hari’s Book “Magic Pill”
• Unlocking Weight Loss: My 30-Day Experience with Zepbound on 5mg
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• Unlocking Weight Loss: My 60-Day Experience with Zepbound 7.5mg
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