Editor’s Note: If you’re attached to your scale, you won’t like this article. But if you’re tired of the love-hate relationship with the scale and thinking, “There has to be a better way,” then you’re in the right place. Whether you like it or not, your scale obsession is holding you back—but keep reading, because I’ve got some wisdom to share that could change everything. ❤️

Are you focusing on the wrong thing?

If you’ve been tirelessly stepping on the scale, only to feel frustrated by the lack of progress, you’re not alone. Many of us have been conditioned to believe that the number on the scale is the ultimate measure of our success. But what if I told you that this focus on the scale might actually be holding you back from achieving your true goals—sustainable weight loss and better blood sugar management?

In this post, we’re going to dive into the common mistake of relying too heavily on the scale and how it can keep you stuck in a cycle of frustration.

More importantly, I’ll show you a new approach—one that focuses on Non-Scale Victories (NSVs) and helps you measure your progress in ways that truly reflect the changes happening in your body and health. This shift in focus isn’t just about feeling better; it’s about making real, lasting progress toward the weight loss and blood sugar control you’ve been working so hard to achieve.

Why does this matter to you? Because not seeing the scale move can lead to burnout, unhealthy habits, and a feeling of defeat, even when you’re making significant progress. By changing your focus, you’ll not only stay motivated, but you’ll also achieve the results you’re truly after—like fitting into your favorite clothes, feeling more energetic, and improving your overall health.

Here’s what we’ll cover:

• The mistake that keeps you stuck

• Why focusing on the scale holds you back

• What to do instead: focus on NSVs

• Common concerns and how to overcome them

• Your next step: Taking control with Low GI Living Premium

Let’s get started. It’s time to break free from the scale and start measuring your success in a way that truly matters.

Has this happened to you?

You’ve been working hard on your diet, carefully monitoring everything you eat, and even squeezing in those extra workouts. Yet, every morning, you step on the scale, and it refuses to budge—or worse, it creeps up a pound or two. Frustration sets in, and you start to wonder, “What’s the point of all this effort if I’m not losing weight?” Sound familiar? It's not just you, and if you’re feeling like this, you might be making one of the most common mistakes in your weight loss journey: focusing solely on the number on the scale.

So, Sarah, one of my clients, came to me feeling defeated. She had been following a strict diet and exercising daily, yet her weight wasn’t dropping. She was totally ready to give up, believing that all her efforts were for nothing. But here’s the thing—Sarah was focusing on the wrong thing. She was glued to that number on the scale, not realizing that real progress isn’t just about that number.

When we shifted her focus to what I call Non-Scale Victories (NSVs)—like the inches she’d actually lost around her waist and how her energy levels had soared—Sarah began to see the true impact of her hard work. That's a huge win.

Why it's easy to fall into this trap

It’s not your fault if you’re fixated on that number. We’ve all been conditioned to believe that our worth and progress are tied to our weight. From magazine covers to social media influencers, everywhere you look, it’s all about the “ideal” weight. It’s easy to get caught up in the idea that the lower the number, the healthier and happier you’ll be. But this couldn’t be further from the truth.

You’re smart, motivated, and you’re putting in the effort—so why isn’t it paying off?

The truth is, the scale doesn’t tell the whole story.

It doesn’t reflect your muscle gain, your increased stamina, or the inches you’ve lost. It certainly doesn’t capture the fact that you’ve been able to fit into those jeans you couldn’t zip up last month or the fact that you’re no longer feeling that mid-afternoon energy crash. The scale is a tool, but it’s not the only one you should be using to measure your success.

The reality is, when you focus solely on the scale, you’re setting yourself up for a rollercoaster of emotions. One day it’s down, and you’re on cloud nine; the next day, it’s up, and you’re ready to throw in the towel. It’s a vicious cycle that keeps you stuck, feeling like you’re not making progress, even when you are. That’s why it’s so important to shift your focus to those Non-Scale Victories that truly matter.

By understanding and avoiding this common mistake, you can finally break free from the frustration and start celebrating the real wins in your journey. You deserve to feel good about your progress, not just based on a number, but on how you’re transforming your health and your life.

Why your scale obsession is sabotaging your progress

When you focus only on the number on the scale, it’s like wearing blinders that prevent you from seeing the full picture of your progress. This narrow focus can keep you stuck in a cycle of frustration, keeping you from achieving your real goal: sustainable, long-term health and weight management. 

Let’s break down how this fixation on the scale gets in the way of what you truly want

001. It undermines your confidence and motivation 💔

One of the most significant ways this scale obsession holds you back is by undermining your confidence and motivation. Every time you step on the scale and don’t see the number you want, it chips away at your self-esteem. You start questioning your efforts, doubting whether you’re capable of making lasting changes. This constant questioning can drain your motivation, making it harder to stick with the healthy habits you’re building. When the scale doesn’t move, you feel like you’re failing, even when you’re not.

002. It distorts your perception of progress 

Another way this focus gets in the way is by distorting your perception of progress. The scale doesn’t tell the full story. It doesn’t reflect the fact that you’re building muscle, which is denser than fat and takes up less space. You might be losing inches around your waist and hips, but if you’re only looking at the scale, you’re missing these vital signs of success. This distorted view can cause you to overlook the positive changes happening in your body, leading you to believe that your efforts are in vain when, in reality, you’re making meaningful progress.

003. It leads to unhealthy behaviors

Focusing solely on the scale can also lead to unhealthy behaviors. When that number becomes your primary measure of success, you might be tempted to take extreme measures to see it drop—like skipping meals, over-exercising, or following restrictive diets that aren’t sustainable. This is so so common. These behaviors can harm your body and mind, making it harder to achieve your long-term goals. They create a cycle of dieting and deprivation that’s not only ineffective but also damaging to your health.

004. It creates stress and anxiety

The constant monitoring of your weight can create a significant amount of stress and anxiety. Stress, especially when it’s ongoing, can negatively impact your health, leading to increased cortisol levels, which in turn can cause your body to hold onto fat. This stress also affects your mental well-being, making you more likely to engage in emotional eating or other habits that work against your goals. Instead of feeling empowered by your journey, you’re caught in a loop of anxiety and frustration.

005. It distracts from real, sustainable change

When your focus is glued to the scale, it distracts you from making real, sustainable changes in your lifestyle. Weight loss is just one aspect of health, and it’s not always the most important one. If you suffer from a preventable chronic disease, then you know you have other imbalances to resolve.  True health is about how you feel, how your clothes fit, how much energy you have, and how well you’re managing your blood sugar and other key markers. By obsessing over the scale, you lose sight of these more meaningful indicators of success.

006. It discourages the celebration of Non-Scale Victories

Lastly, when you’re fixated on the scale, you miss out on celebrating the Non-Scale Victories (NSVs) that are crucial to keeping you motivated and positive. These NSVs—like fitting into a pair of jeans that were too tight last month, feeling more energetic throughout the day, or noticing that you’re no longer craving sugar at night—are the real signs that you’re moving in the right direction. These victories should be celebrated, not overlooked because of an arbitrary number.

By shifting your focus away from the scale and embracing the bigger picture of your health, you can finally break free from the tiredness and self-doubt. It’s time to start celebrating the victories that truly matter and to recognize the incredible progress you’re making.

What to do instead: focus on Non-Scale Victories

So, if the scale isn’t giving you the full picture—and let’s be honest, it rarely does—what should you do instead?

The answer is simple: shift your focus to Non-Scale Victories (NSVs) and use something more tangible, like an article of clothing, to measure your progress.

This approach will not only help you stay motivated, but it will also provide a more accurate reflection of your journey toward better health and weight management.

Let's dive a little deep here.

• Use an article of clothing as your measure
  Instead of stepping on the scale every morning, find a piece of clothing that you want to fit into comfortably—maybe it’s a pair of jeans, a dress, or even a favorite top. This item will become your new “scale.” Every week or so, try it on and see how it feels. Does it zip up more easily? Are you feeling less snug in the waist? These small changes are true indicators of your progress, far more reliable than the number on the scale. Clothing doesn’t lie—it will show you exactly how your body is changing, and these changes are often a sign that you’re losing fat and inches, even if the scale doesn’t move.
  
  By focusing on how your clothes fit, you’re tuning in to real, sustainable fat loss, which is crucial for long-term weight management and blood sugar control. This method helps you stay consistent with your healthy habits because you see tangible progress, even when the scale might not show it. And remember, losing inches and fitting more comfortably into your clothes are signs that you’re on track. As your clothes fit better, that means things are improving — you’ll likely notice improvements in your biomarkers by your next doctor’s visit, and you’ll be well on your way to naturally releasing weight and inches.
  
  
• Celebrate your Non-Scale Victories
  As you move forward, start celebrating all the Non-Scale Victories that come your way. Did you notice you have more energy in the afternoons? Maybe you’re sleeping better at night, or your skin is clearer. Perhaps you’ve been able to stick to your meal plan without feeling deprived or you’ve managed to avoid that mid-afternoon slump that used to send you running for sugary snacks. These victories, though they may seem small, are actually huge wins that reflect positive changes in your health and well-being. Each one is a step closer to your ultimate goal, and they deserve to be recognized and celebrated.
  
  Focusing on these NSVs is not just about feeling good in the moment; it’s about building momentum that leads to long-term success. When you acknowledge and celebrate these small victories, you’re reinforcing the healthy behaviors that contribute to sustainable weight loss and better blood sugar management. Over time, these victories will help you reduce or even eliminate the need for medication, stop those energy crashes mid-afternoon, and reduce headaches and brain fog. And most importantly, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite carbs and sugar without harming your health, knowing that you’re making progress in the ways that truly matter.
  
  
• Track your progress in other ways
  Finally, consider tracking your progress in ways that go beyond both the scale and clothing. Take regular measurements of your waist, hips, and other areas where you’re looking to lose inches. Keep a journal of how you’re feeling—both physically and emotionally—on your journey. Are you less stressed? More confident? Notice the changes in your fitness levels, like being able to lift heavier weights or walk longer distances without feeling winded. All of these are signs of progress that are far more meaningful than a number on the scale.
  
  Tracking these other forms of progress not only provides a fuller picture of your journey but also helps you stay focused on what really matters—long-term health. As you continue to lose inches, improve your stamina, and feel more energized, you’re naturally moving closer to your weight loss goals. These methods also help you stay in tune with your body’s needs, making it easier to manage your blood sugar and chronic conditions. With each inch lost and each improvement in your fitness, you’re reinforcing the foundation for continued weight loss, better health, and the ability to enjoy life without the constant worry of the scale.

How things turned out for Sarah

Remember Sarah from earlier? When she stopped obsessing over the scale and started using her favorite pair of jeans as her new measure of progress, everything changed. She noticed that week by week, those jeans fit better and better. Even on days when the scale wasn’t budging, she could see and feel the difference in how her clothes fit. Sarah also began to celebrate her NSVs—like having more energy to play with her kids and finally getting a good night’s sleep. By shifting her focus away from the scale, Sarah was able to see the true progress she was making, and it gave her the motivation to keep going.

By focusing on NSVs and using clothing as your measure, you’ll be able to see the real progress you’re making on your journey to better health. This approach not only reflects the true changes happening in your body but also helps you stay motivated and positive. It’s time to break free from the scale and start measuring your success in a way that really matters.

Perhaps you're now asking yourself...

"If I stop focusing on the scale, how will I know if I’m really losing weight?"

It’s completely natural to feel uneasy about stepping away from the scale. After all, we’ve been conditioned to believe that weight loss is all about that number.

I'll sound like a broken record here: the scale can be misleading. It doesn’t show you the real changes happening in your body, like losing fat while gaining muscle, or how your clothes are fitting better each day. Instead of relying on the scale, again, use other methods that give you a more accurate picture of your progress. Track your measurements (literally measure yourself), pay attention to how your clothes fit, and notice the Non-Scale Victories (NSVs) like having more energy, fewer cravings, better sleep, or improved biomarkers. These are all signs that your body is changing in a positive way, even if the scale doesn’t immediately reflect it.

"What if my clothes aren’t fitting better, even though I’m following the plan?"

If you’re following the plan and not seeing immediate changes in how your clothes fit, don’t panic. Remember, progress isn’t always linear, and every body is different. Sometimes it takes a little longer for your body to respond, especially if you’re building muscle, which can cause initial weight fluctuations.

Also, consider the other Non-Scale Victories you might be experiencing—like improved energy levels, fewer headaches, or better blood sugar management. These are all signs that your body is adapting positively to the changes you’re making, even if your clothing doesn’t show it yet. Keep going, stay consistent, and you’ll start to see and feel the differences in due time.

"How do I stay motivated if I’m not seeing fast results?"

It can be frustrating when you don’t see fast results, but remember, sustainable weight loss and health improvements take time. I like to say, "this problem didn't happen overnight, so don't expect it to be solved overnight".

Quick fixes and drastic changes might give you short-term results, but they’re often not sustainable and can lead to burnout. Instead, focus on the small, consistent changes you’re making each day—these add up over time and lead to lasting results. Celebrate every Non-Scale Victory, no matter how small it seems, because each one is a step toward your ultimate goal. Whether it’s feeling more energetic, noticing that your clothes fit a little better, or simply knowing you’ve stuck to your plan for another week, these victories are what will keep you motivated in the long run.

And remember, you’re not just working toward a lower number on the scale; you’re working toward better health, improved biomarkers, and the ability to enjoy life without the stress of constantly worrying about your weight.

Make a commitment now to do things differently

Don’t continue to make the mistake of letting the scale dictate your progress and your worth. You’re here because you want to achieve sustainable weight loss, better blood sugar management, and improved health overall. The scale is just one small part of that journey, and as we’ve discussed, it often doesn’t reflect the amazing progress you’re making.

Instead, focus on what matters more: the Non-Scale Victories (NSVs) that show real, lasting changes in your body and health. Whether it’s using an article of clothing to measure your progress, celebrating the increased energy and reduced cravings you’re experiencing, or tracking the inches you’re losing around your waist, these are the milestones that will keep you motivated and moving forward. This I can promise you.

Remember, sustainable weight loss is about more than just a number—it’s about how you feel, how your clothes fit, and ultimately how well you’re managing your blood sugar and chronic conditions. Your doctor will be wondering what you've been up to—in a good way!

Just to recap what you've now learned:

• The mistake of focusing solely on the number on the scale and how it keeps you stuck.

• How this obsession undermines your confidence, distorts your perception of progress, and leads to unhealthy behaviors.

• The stress and anxiety caused by constantly monitoring your weight. (You're breaking free from this!)

• How focusing on the scale distracts from real, sustainable changes and prevents you from celebrating Non-Scale Victories.

• What to do instead: Use an article of clothing as your measure, celebrate Non-Scale Victories, and track progress in other meaningful ways.

• The importance of recognizing the true indicators of progress, like improved energy, better sleep, reduced cravings, and better fitting clothes.

• Addressing some common concerns: how to know if you’re losing weight without the scale, what to do if your clothes aren’t fitting better yet, and how to stay motivated without fast results.
  
  

Don’t let the scale continue to hold you back from achieving the health and well-being you deserve. You want to lose weight, manage your blood sugar, and live a healthier life without constantly stressing over every pound. By shifting your focus to Non-Scale Victories and using clothing or other tangible measures to track your progress, you’ll find that your journey becomes more rewarding, motivating, and ultimately, successful. Embrace this new approach, and you’ll see that the real progress is happening, even if the scale isn’t showing it just yet.

Keep going—you’re on the right path!

At some point, it’s important to heal our relationship with the scale—and with ourselves. That number doesn’t define you in any way. One way to start this healing is through Low GI Living.

If you’re ready to stop letting the scale control your progress and want to start seeing real, lasting results, I’m here to help you take that next step.

Low GI Living is designed to give you the tools and support you need to finally break free from the frustration of traditional dieting.

LGL is $29 a month, and gives you access to my BEST program to help you move in the right direction:

• A 30-Day Weight Loss Plan to help you kickstart your journey with meals that are both satisfying and blood-sugar-friendly, so you can lose up to 5 lbs in the next 30 days while still enjoying your favorite foods.

• The Whole GI Protocol™ framework that guides you on how, when, and why to eat for effective fat loss and better blood sugar control—removing the guesswork from your daily routine.

• Weekly Meal Plans to keep you on track and ensure you’re consistently making progress toward your goals after your 30-day plan is complete.

• Expert Guidance and Nutrition Classes & Workshops to provide you with the knowledge and support you need to stay motivated and informed. I'll be there every step of the way.

You’ll also have full access to our Recipe Collections, Cookbooks, and Printable Planners & Guides—resources that make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.

I know how challenging it can be to stay motivated, especially when you feel like you’re not seeing the results you want. With Low GI Living, I've developed the framework for making real lifelong change. And there are no contracts,  so you can cancel anytime, though I think you’ll find the value in sticking with it.

If you’re ready to shift and see the progress you’ve been working so hard for, consider this your invitation to join Low GI Living. I've provided the exact resources you need to achieve the weight loss, blood sugar control, and overall health you deserve. 

Upgrade to Low GI Living premium now 

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Ok, while you're here, I'll answer some common Q's!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What exactly is included in the 30-Day Weight Loss Plan?

The 30-Day Weight Loss Plan is designed to kickstart your journey with easy-to-follow, blood-sugar-friendly meals that help you lose up to 5 lbs in a month. The plan is do-it-yourself, so you learn the framework, and get access to premium recipes to put your plan together—this way you choose what you like. It’s structured to be simple yet effective, ensuring you make steady progress without feeling deprived. The focus is on balancing your blood sugar and incorporating foods you love, making the plan both sustainable and enjoyable.

2. How does the Whole GI Protocol framework work, and how will it help me manage my blood sugar?

The Whole GI Protocol is a comprehensive approach that teaches you how, when, and why to eat to optimize your blood sugar levels. It’s not just about what you eat but also the timing and combination of foods that help maintain stable glucose levels throughout the day. By following this framework, you’ll learn how to prevent spikes and crashes in your blood sugar, which is crucial for long-term weight loss and managing or preventing chronic conditions. This protocol provides you with the tools to take control of your health in a sustainable way. You can learn more about the Whole GI Protocol framework here and start incorporating it into your life today.

3. Are the meal plans customizable to fit my dietary preferences or restrictions?

You get a blank meal planner and I guide you through how to make your weekly plan. It's so easy, flexible, and can be tailored to accommodate various dietary preferences or restrictions. You have access to all of our cookbooks so whether you’re vegetarian, gluten-free, or have other specific needs, the recipes are designed to be adaptable. You’ll receive guidance on how to modify the meals to suit your lifestyle while still maintaining the balance needed for effective weight loss and blood sugar management.

4. What kind of recipes can I expect in the collections and cookbooks?

The recipe collections and cookbooks offer a wide variety of meals that are delicious, simple to prepare, and most of all familiar. You can expect recipes that use common, easily accessible ingredients and are designed to fit within the Low GI (Glycemic Index) framework. The recipes cater to different tastes and cuisines, ensuring that there’s something for everyone (including your family). They focus on being quick to prepare, with many options that can be made in under 30 minutes, making it easy to stay on track even with a busy schedule.

5. How are the nutrition classes and workshops delivered, and can I access them anytime?

The nutrition classes and workshops are all online, so you can access them from the comfort of your home. They are available on-demand, allowing you to watch them at a time that suits you best. Whether you prefer to learn in the evenings, on weekends, or during your lunch break, these resources are designed to fit into your schedule. This flexibility ensures that you can continue your education and stay motivated no matter how busy life gets.

6. What kind of expert guidance will I receive?

You’ll receive expert guidance like this article you're reading. I take a topic and go in depth. You can ask questions any time through premium support and I or my team will be there to help. 

7. How soon can I expect to see results, and what kind of progress is typical?

Results vary from person to person, but many members start to see changes within the first few weeks. Common early results include feeling more energetic, losing inches around the waist, and noticing better control over blood sugar levels. Weight loss typically follows as your body adjusts to the healthier eating patterns. The key is consistency, and the tools provided by Low GI Living are designed to help you stay on track for long-term success.

8. Is there a commitment or contract, and what happens if I need to cancel?

There’s no long-term commitment or contract required. The Low GI Living premium membership is a month-to-month plan, and you can cancel anytime. If you find that the program isn’t the right fit for you, or if your circumstances change, you can easily cancel your membership without any penalties. The goal is to provide you with a flexible and supportive environment that works for you.

9. How do the specialty plans & programs cater to different needs or conditions?

The specialty plans & programs are designed to address specific health concerns and dietary needs. Whether you’re dealing with cravings, stress management, or optimizing your diet for a chronic condition like diabetes, these plans offer targeted strategies that align with your goals. They provide customized advice and meal plans that consider your unique situation, making it easier to achieve success while managing your health effectively.

10. What makes Low GI Living premium different from other weight loss or health programs?

Low GI Living is different because it focuses on sustainable, long-term results rather than quick fixes. The program is built around my framework Whole GI Protocol™, that I developed over a decade, which provides a comprehensive approach to eating that balances blood sugar and supports overall health. It’s not just about losing weight; it’s about improving your biomarkers, reducing your need for medication, and enjoying your favorite foods without guilt. With expert guidance, flexible meal plans, and balanced recipes, Low GI Living offers a holistic solution that addresses both your physical and emotional health.

If you have any other questions, reach out to [email protected] 

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