WOMAN WHO INSPIRES

Losing weight will never be easy. It’s a constant struggle filled with setbacks and self-doubt. Lisa Farrell would know. Her battle has spanned decades and her story personifies resilience, but also humility.

“Before I began this journey, I was one of those people who tried every known diet, and perceived myself unrealistically by thinking I was fatter than I was, or smaller than I was. I worked out on and off, but the damage was done psychologically by beating myself up,” Farrell said. “Do that a few times, no big deal. Do that over decades, and it’s a major issue. I ate whatever I wanted, while telling people I was on this or that diet, and never really got control of myself.”

Farrell wants others to know that it’s okay to experience these setbacks, and that it’s a normal part of the process. Everyone has those moments when they feel like giving up, or when they twist the truth to fit a particular narrative that keeps them down. This is part of being human. It’s our ego trying to keep us from succeeding. But by acknowledging that this is the source of self-doubt, we begin to chip away at its power and take back control.

Farrell continued prioritizing her health physically and mentally. Soon transcending the traditional boundaries of losing weight, and experiencing a perspective shift altogether.

Gaining control over your mindset is an invaluable tool when overcoming an obstacle. The stories we tell ourselves shape the way we react to the situations we encounter. Recognizing the power of this is the first step towards regaining control of our mental well-being and emotional outlook.

“Since then, a lot of things have changed, but mostly my mindset. I’m addressing issues that previously caused my efforts to achieve temporary, and not lasting success. I’m being assertive when addressing people in my life who love me, but always seem to undermine my success. I’ve realized the physical changes are the easy part; you have to deal with the emotional ones for the change to become an integrated part of your life.”

These changes might seem small, or unimportant in the moment. But understanding how changing your narrative can resonate throughout your life is a special tool. Be it for weight loss, like Lisa, or for achieving any goal you set your mind to. Zooming out to show yourself some love will go a long way.

“Anyone would be pleased with 52 pounds gone forever in only 15 weeks. I’m moving more freely and with less pain. I’m fitting into clothes that really didn’t fit before. I’m excited, and can’t wait to be able to buy and wear things I never dreamed I would be able to. It means I’m going to be able to do things I haven’t done in years and enjoy them. I am finding Lisa again!” Ferrell exclaimed.

Lisa Farrell

RESILIENT, STRONG, VULNERABLE

By Christian Dischler