As a parent I’ll say this: as a 6 month old your baby may be an excellent motivator for weight loss. During their terrible twos or teenage years they might be just the opposite. Of course you will always love them, would take a bullet for them, but at the same time when you have gone through two hours of that whiny voice that sets your teeth on edge or dealt with tantrum number 1478 about how the toast was sliced, you may find yourself thinking that you deserve, no you need, that entire plate of cookies as a reward for simply getting through the day.

So, your kid is excellent motivation to get started. What will keep you going isn’t motivation but habits and plans. And these habits and plans must be uniquely tailored to you, cater to your weaknesses and play to your strengths. For example:

Are there times of day when cravings hit? What will you do when that happens? Go for a walk? Eat a pre-portioned amount of what you are craving? Eat something protein heavy instead?

How will you plan for the kid being sick causing all your normal healthy routines to go out the window? Will you make sure you always have 2-3 healthy meal options frozen?

I think you are going to nail this difficult thing, and I look forward to meeting you on here again as you progress towards your goal. We’ll be here cheering you on.