Healthy Living HURDLE: What If I Gain Weight Again? || Weight Loss Journey

[@maliabigham5954]

Erica you have such a gift of verbalizing what women go through mentally. I have loved watching your transformation and am so happy for your success. This video was much needed for me today. I have recently lost 25 lbs doing intermittent fasting along with WW but have been struggling this last month b/c of a crazy schedule. You have motivated me to stay the course and get back on track. Love your channel and congratulations with all your success.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

I think getting off course sometimes can help you find nee motivation to stay the course once you get back on.

[@Nan-59]

What a lovely comment! Sincere congrats on your weight loss!

[@debsmith7460]

Keep on with your calling. It really does make a difference. I feel like I've had a meaningful visit with a friend this morning by watching this video! I love your honesty and transparency. I'm so proud of you!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

That made me so happy.

[@aniz40]

I apreciate your vulnerability in this video and also when you said, " it's not about the size , it's about my health " and also when you said " i didn't prioritize myself/my health. Love that you're feel brave enough too look your fear in the face and keep on walking. Inspiring !.

[@kimnutbrowncottage3790]

You have been so successful at changing so many things in your life. You're a rock star, Erica! You will succeed with this, too. Just think of the extra weight like those boxes in the basement that you want to be rid of. Every day you walk and IF you're working on emptying a box. This video is so good. You teach me so much with your own journey.

[@nickikufan]

Erika! I have also been holding on to underwear that are too big. They've been sitting on the floor in my closet while I've been trying to figure out what to do with them. They DO NOT fit me anymore, yet I still hold on to them. When you threw yours into the trash, I paused the video and thew mine away, too. I still have a ways to go on my weight loss/health journey. Thank you for inspiring me!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Yes!!! This was worth posting the video!!

[@justplainpeachy9352]

I am trying to make the switch from “clothes that cover my body” to “clothes I love to wear and feel good in”. Thanks for helping!

[@leahirvine3522]

Ohhh good! Love this ❤👌

[@EricaLucasLoves]

That’s it! Those are THE words!!

[@sharylsimeone]

Yes! I used to carry 50 lbs more and finding plus clothes that fit was the choice, even if ugly. That is not the case now. But that old tape is there..it’s fits you should keep it. 👍🏻

[@sarahheilmann7231]

Wow Erica, you are brave and bold and so inspiring! And yes, self worth and self love are so important on a journey towards what is meaningful to us but still scares us too. Thank you for sharing this so honestly.

[@AtoZenLife]

Big hugs to you my dear! ✨🤗✨ I walked two miles today and you inspired me to do that versus sit and just watch my kids playing! It was you and your 100 walks. Thanks for allowing yourself to be vulnerable in front of us.

[@AtoZenLife]

@@smallvoice3836 Thanks so much for your kind words 🤗🤗🤗 it really means a lot!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

@@smallvoice3836 oh my!! Thank you!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@_pandorable]

As someone who went down multiple sizes, here's what I have learned: Sometimes it can help to not have this "all or nothing" mentality - you don't have to get rid of ALL your "what if" clothes. Pick out a few faves of each type (undies, bottoms, tops etc) and get rid of the rest. That way you still have that safety of having some clothes in case you go back to that weight but it doesn't take up a lot of space, mental or physical. Then you can get rid of those at a later date when you feel less anxious and overwhelmed.

[@RebeccaWife1Mom4]

I can completely relate to your, "what if" struggle. It it difficult and you are not alone.

[@judithclughen8955]

Oh Erica. I find myself in England cheering on a stranger in America standing in her wardrobe throwing out her knickers!! Woo hoo go on girl!! You speak for us all so beautifully. I also have lost stones on IF and find I can’t bring myself to buy a size 10 as I have never been that size. I’m going to have a word with myself (not in my wardrobe we’re not lucky enough to have rooms for our clothes here and it would be a bit of a squeeze) and I’m off to see if I have any knickers to throw away too. Well well done lots of love and strength

[@kempfreehold9450]

I always tell myself that clothes aren't that expensive so I'll buy new ones if I do go up in size. It's better not to carry that dead weight

[@staciearagon5394]

You are so correct! And when we keep the big clothes, we are carrying the dead weight. We need to let it go 🥰

[@Iquey]

That's a good way of putting it. Dead weight because it's gone, but ghost weight because it haunts you. Best to clear out the unhappy ghosts!!!

[@pennakm]

just thank you! thank you for being "real"

[@EricaLucasLoves]

❤️

[@danabrown2391]

Erica, we are with you all the way! Remember Philippines 4:13 " I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength " !

[@susanpeterson9947]

I’m sorry that you’re struggling with this. About ten years ago I made the decision to lose weight and have.lost 50 pounds and kept it off. I couldn’t wait to get rid of my oversized clothes, and knowing that I didn’t have any safety net helped to keep me on the straight and narrow. YOU CAN DO IT.

[@sherryhudson9075]

You’re absolutely right!

[@ThKiwi]

Erica, you inspired me to join Noom awhile back. I’ve lost my first 10 pounds (40 to go!) and I feel wonderful! Best of all, like you said, my mindset and hunger signals are changing. If I make my daughter pancakes I am happy to have a handful of cherries instead, I no longer feel deprived if I skip the pancakes. We’re doing it!! I know we don’t know each other, but I do feel like you’re my healthy living buddy who is on this path with me. Thank you for verbalizing those inner bullying thoughts and fighting them out loud.

[@staciearagon5394]

Yes Erica, thank you for fighting your inner bully out loud. It gives me hope that the next time my inner bully is doing her thing I will put my foot down and answer back and not just take her crap! It has been a wake up moment for me, for some reason I didn't know I did not have to take her crap!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

@@staciearagon5394 🥊 let’s do this!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

I am so proud of you!

[@KSLassie457]

Hanging onto the larger sizes of clothing is giving yourself an excuse to not be conciencias about sticking to the IF and lifestyle changes. It is also giving yourself permission to regain the weight that you have lost. I am going through this too and had not before realized that I am making a mistake by not moving the larger items out of my house. I am working hard to lose the weight and definitely do not want to sabotage the process. Time to declutter the clothing. Thanks Erica! And good luck!!👍🏻

[@drewconway7135]

I so resonate with the part about the cinnamon rolls. Cinnamon rolls used to be (and I guess still are) my favorite sweet treat, but I haven’t had one in a couple months. I have been focused on breaking my body’s carb addiction. The first three weeks were hard. I would tell myself Friday was my “cheat day,” and I could eat whatever I wanted on Friday. So I would white-knuckle it through the rest of the week, eating well and exercising so I could pig out on Friday. Then on Saturday I would feel awful from all the carbs, and lost motivation, and would have to force myself back on the wagon. Sometimes I’m a slow learner, so it took me three weeks of that nonsense to realize that the cheat days were doing more harm than good. I let them go, and told myself that I would go as many days as I could without a cheat, but that a cheat meant my streak would reset to zero. That has kept me going.

[@staciearagon5394]

Thank you for turning on the light bulb for me. Yes, the cheat days are doing me more harm than good. And forcing myself back onto the wagon is brutal. Much easier to just stay on the wagon.

[@robynyoung711]

I noticed that you were in Andy's part of the closet for the first part. With his clothes around you, I felt like the long sleeves of his shirts were giving you hugs and encouragement. After you threw them away, you were at the other place end of your closet. Celebrate this weight loss and journey into a healthy life! You are a strong woman! Thank you for sharing this last two years with us. I am SO proud of you!!!

[@floridamezzo8734]

Good for you, Erica! You will do it! I have lost and gained 50 pounds, and I am in the journey now to lose it again and get healthier! My goal is to get off my BP medication.

[@victoriawhite9215]

Ooh, I'm feeling you in this video! Letting go of clothes that don't fit is so much harder than letting go of ones we don't like anymore, because there is always that "what if..?" But you deserve clothing and underwear that fits. And if your size goes up again later, you will still deserve underwear that fits and is comfy while your energy and focus is on other areas of your life. We are all sending you love and strength to help you through this part of your journey. As always, thanks for sharing and inspiring others who are also struggling. Xxx

[@kleinesdaisukii]

Thank you so much for your honesty. I lost a lot of weight last year, but I have trouble living healthy this year. I still have a stack of larger size clothing in my wardrobe and it bugs me everytime, I open the door. It‘s time to get back on track with healthy eating and getting those old clothes out of the house. Thank you for being an inspiration!

[@Nemrac-kn8jm]

I can see the results of your journey. You have truly bloomed in front of our eyes. Congratulations!!! Keep on going, the sky is the limit.

[@StacyBlack1970]

In this journey of life we are bound to have moments where our weight increases and decreases. About 4 years ago I lost 50 lbs on WW and have kept it off. I am in menopause and with Covid have found myself creeping up slightly. So, I had to buy a few larger items since I donated all the items that no longer fit me. Disappointed, yes. But recognizing it's just part of the journey. Buying a couple of pieces to get me through this stage and getting back to my healthier habits. Sending you hugs as I know the feeling. If anyone can accomplish their goals it is you girl! Chuck those undies! Enjoy today's success and don't worry about tomorrow.

[@lianarojas9679]

You go, girl! I have been sizes 14 to 16 for years. At age 50, I am finally learning to love this version of me, but I wish I had started to make healthier decisions a decade or two before. You are an inspiration!

[@christinegreen287]

Hi Erica! I’m so proud of you! I think you made the right decision. I have lost almost 30 lbs in the last year and went down 3 pant sizes. The first thing I did was get rid of the big clothes. I didn’t want any safety net so I am in free fall mode. If I go back up then I’ll have to cross that bridge when I come to it but I don’t want a safety net…I want to fly free and I think you do too! Good luck. I watch all your videos and love them. Chris 💕

[@carriejohnson8209]

I'm so proud of you ! Don't let your old clothes judge you and steal your joy. One day at a time, Erica, and today is joy!

[@tammyhogan3726]

Your videos are so real. You purged your clothes that were too big in your capsule wardrobe with what seemed like ease. I wonder if your underwear was the last piece of "old" you. Your inner voice was trying to hold onto that last piece. Talking you down and telling you that you will fail. You are doing AMAZING! I wish I had half the strength you have to do what your doing.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

It was the last piece. The intimacy of underwear maybe too?

[@tammyhogan3726]

@@EricaLucasLoves Exactly! Your doing so well. Don't let underwear stand in your way. :) Are you still doing Noom?

[@EricaLucasLoves]

@@tammyhogan3726 yes I am! Every day!

[@eyiapandora3933]

I have a magnet on my fridge to remind me that: "Courage is not the absence of fear, but the acquired ability to move beyond fear." You are embodying this with your entire journey. Thank you for sharing your journey and insights. Also, I love how down to earth and real you are. I always look forward to your videos.

[@thedianagoddess]

Thank you for sharing your vulnerability. I have watched your journey for years, and I have been so impressed by your logic and your efforts and successes as you’ve managed major life events and pursued minimalish choices. As someone dealing with weight and body happiness issues, I hear you on the inner bully. Thank you for your honesty and sharing your thoughts and choices with us. You’re amazing!

[@eing20]

I've been doing my intermittent fasting for 12 weeks and you are killing it! I've lost 17 lbs but only one pants size. And "if" you do backside and gain weight, then that's OK too. It doesn't define you or your worth or your ability to lose and keep off the weight. Keep going you're doing great!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

I think I have tons of fat stores. 😂😂

[@christined2495]

May I ask, if one intermittent fast, that means no morning coffee with oat milk? I can do without the food, but I need that coffee.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

@@christined2495 I still drink my coffee with creamer. I lessened the amount to less than 59 calories and changed my creamer to organic half n half. Lacey Baier has a good video on this switch.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

@@christined2495 4:01 mark on this video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/p5SugnSojsecosU

[@eing20]

Usually they say anything other than black coffee ruins your fast. Fledge fitness has some good videos on this. Any sugar or anything like that will bring you out of your fast.

[@lauemiands]

You are so honest, I wanted to talk to you through the video and say Throw them out! I used to keep bigger clothes after having my kids and once I got rid of them it kept me honest about what I wanted for myself.

[@jeankarcher2460]

I am so proud of you for saying out loud what alot of us are thinking.

[@MelindaPlainandSimple]

That was probably your best video yet. I love that you kept the vulnerability in it. It's not just words, it's real. It's a journey and it's hard sometimes. I finally threw out my 'skinny' undies a couple of months ago after hanging onto them for years. They bully by saying, "You still haven't lost that weight." If I ever do go back to that size, I'll buy myself some new ones, just like I bought myself new ones when I gained weight. We only need the ones that fit us now, no matter what size that is. You're doing great! I'm so happy your lifestyle changes are showing results for you. ❤

[@lleng1001]

Been there! Sounds like you talked yourself through it so accurately!

[@danielleborchert276]

Remember the 20/20 rule! You could easily replace those in 20/20 if you needed to, but you won't. You are beautiful and you are in a good place. You got this!

[@3llenzinha]

Dont think "what if I gain weight again", but "what if I get back to the old habits that made me gain the weight i just lost". Your weight isnt all in your control, but your everyday choices are. One day at a time, Erica. It works for addiction, depression, anxiety, fighting sin, exercising, eating better foods. Gaining weight isnt a one time decision case, it is a week, month decisions case.

[@unchainedmelody67]

Don't look back, Erica. You won't gain it back if you continue with IF. I dropped two clothes sizes and one underwear size two years ago with IF and keto (not even strict keto), and haven't gained it back. Now the underwear is too big again, so I need o buy new again. I'm only maybe 10 pounds and one clothes size off of the size I used to wear pre-gain, which of course is the hardest to lose (and no I did NOT declutter my "skinny" clothes, fortunately). I realize it's probably going to take a couple of 2-3 day fasts to get there. We hit these "set points" that it takes a little bit more to break through. It's so empowering to me, to discover that there really is a way I can actually be in CONTROL of my weight. Prior to keto and IF, I had so much insulin resistance I could eat super low calorie, exercise, and still lose nothing at all. All of that said though, I agree with you that the health benefits are the most important thing.

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Yes! I’ve felt out of control for 7 years.

[@mrseliephant]

Erica, I have been everything from sized 6 to 26 and all in between. At one point I had a Lane Bryant store in my closet. I realized that it made me unhappy and anxious to keep all those sizes. I ended up picking clothes out that fit me then and there, packed up all the others, and donated them...about 30 bins worth of clothes. No regrets, especially since I donated to a charity that helps women who had to leave in the middle of the night from domestic violence.

[@loiscampbell3510]

Don't be afraid, Sweet Erica. You will NOT go backwards - no more than you'll go back to cluttering your life with unopened boxes from your past. I'm confident you'll continue on the journey to health and be there for your kids and that handsome husband of yours. Just think of the changes you've already made in your life, the lives of your children, and your home over the past year or two. You're like a dear friend or family member to me. Hugs!

[@denisebittick3244]

So powerful! I need to live in this reality. I recently lost 50 lbs and the "what if " struggle is very real. Thank you for being so brave.

[@marciewhite5368]

Remember, you are so much more than your weight/size and even your health. Just being yourself is a blessing to yourself and those around you.

[@debraarbuthnott3380]

You go girl!!!! It is so hard to admit that we do bully ourselves. It also anxiety - worrying about what might happen in the future. You can be healthy and still put on weight (especially with menopause). But there is no point worrying about it - it may or may not happen. You did the right thing throwing out the underwear - you do deserve new underwear and you have done really well!!!

[@chris_perea]

Erica, I'm so proud of you for what you achieved💙I was where you where too a long time ago. This is my experience: I knew I never wanted to be that person again. So I knew, I can TRUST myself to let go of the bigger sizes. Trusting myself helped me so much to keep going. I never needed the bigger sizes again. I also realized, that the new sizes are not that forever thing I thought they would be. You lose more weight, stuff needs to be replaced bc it's broken, styles change, you move somewhere and need more shorts than thick sweaters etc. Everything is fluid and you are WORTHY to have a closet where everything is an option 💙

[@lm0703]

Good for you! You go, girl! As someone who has struggled with weight almost my entire life, I completely understand where you are coming from. In fact, just the other day, I mentioned to my hubby that the reason weight makes me feel as down as it does is that it is a daily reminder of failure. I could be extremely successful in all other aspects of life, but this one hits me in the face daily. It's difficult to rise above that.

[@geawillemse3513]

I loved just how transparent and honest you were sweet lady! You CAN do this, you are doing so well and have set excellent goals. Remember IF is NOT a diet, it is a life style change. I'm 56 and in menopause and got serious with IF ten months ago. I'm doing OMAD as it seems to be the best way to shift my weight. I've lost 15 kg ( 33 lb approx I think) and have reached my goal weight. I'm now aiming for a few pounds lighter. I walk 1-2 hours per day. IF has had so many positive benefits apart from weight loss: mood is lifted, fantastic skin, loss of cellulite, change in body composition, reduced cravings, no blood sugar spikes and so on. Keep going, just take one day at a time and focus on making good choices each day. I'm cheering you on from the sidelines.

[@ArtyAntics]

I used to fight my inner critics but actually one day I realised they were there to teach me and motivate me to change. When I befriended her by listening to her concerns/fears we both moved on together and I changed my life in ways I couldn’t have imagined.

[@sherirae]

Oh Erica, I so relate to what you are saying. It bought tears to my eyes. At the moment I am the heaviest I have been in my life. That is even counting 2 pregnancies. Being post-menopause and having only 1/2 a thyroid doesn't help. You are so motivating. Look after yourself.

[@helenhartley6904]

I am losing some weight too, but I love, love, love throwing out old clothes that are too big!! Yahoo, celebration time! Jump for joy, celebrating my new way of life, my better health, and my new positive control. Just go for it Erica! Stop over thinking it, enjoy it! I love IMF and keto.

[@Joybug_51]

Isn't it so sad that we talk so negatively to ourselves? I would not say such mean things to another woman, nor has any woman said such things to me and my own mother was always supportive in my body changes with childbirth and peri- menopause, yet my self talk is defeating so often. Thank you for sharing so openly...I hope to remember this for my next " mean girl" moment.💓

[@shearsa7071]

It's a reminder to live your current reality, not a future 'what if' possibility. Love watching your journey! I'm on one too, but a much slower one ;)

[@nancybonarowski5427]

Bravo Erica! You need to realize that this time you are not DIETING!!! That word always trips people up because they view it as a temporary means to an end. You, my friend, have started a lifestyle change that I believe you are capable of sustaining for the long haul. Like you said, your body is starting to actually reject some of your old habits like the cinnamon rolls. You cannot let the what if’s impede your journey. Positive self-talk and visualizing your new body will help keep your doubts about what if’s at bay. I can honestly see a huge change in your demeanor after just two months and you are a much stronger and self determined woman. Keep your eye on the prize and just keep going forward. You are an inspiring influence for all of us who are struggling with weight issues and healthy lifestyles.

[@ChrisS-nr7lj]

You’ve got this, Erica!

[@jacquelinepetersen9061]

Erica, you have come so far since your journey started. You can do this because you haven't given up. There will be days that you'll doubt yourself, but we all have those days. You have a positive attitude and you are always improving in every area of your life. Thanks for sharing with us because we all go through doubtful times. We're here for you as you are for us. Keep moving forward, you're on a good path and your setting good examples for us all. You got this Girl !!

[@amandadavis5658]

You are strong!!! Toss the old undies out, celebrate that you lost some weight!!! Put some of you favorite things that are too big, in a small container, label them "too big" and put them in the basement. Everytime you see the box, smile and be proud of yourself. But ... If you need them for whatever reason, you will have a few favorites. You are doing a great job, and hubby might be glad you bought new pretty panties!!! Keep up the great work!!!

[@JessThim]

You are so awesome, I am grateful for your transparency. Its refreshing to hear. I'm on a get healthy and strong journey too and I appreciate you and your videos.

[@itoshiibaka8267]

This is one of my favorite videos of yours ever. Keep up the great work!

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Thank you! I feel so vulnerable.

[@rode_rash3956]

@@EricaLucasLoves, OMG, Lady! You need to take a deep look and realize the rock star you are creating with yourself. This is a HARD struggle. But you are doing it. You are facing it. Every day. To help, try this: Get up every day, and before you do anything else, make a decision. Decide who and what you want to be that day. “I want to be strong, and I want to be a good and healthy me. I want to love the progress I make every day (because frankly, it never, ever stops being progress. It’s never a destination. It’s always a journey.).” Then if you’re ever worried or doubting, just remember where you WERE. And remember how far you’ve come. And if you can make it this far, you can make it farther. Also, remember you made that decision. “Oh, I can’t do that because I already decided I wasn’t going to.” If you can keep commitments to others, then you can absolutely keep commitments to yourself.

[@itoshiibaka8267]

Vulnerability is necessary for growth! ❤❤❤

[@pamboatwright8281]

Erica, you are just a breath of fresh air! The things that you speak about (real topics showing real emotions) make it so easy for women to connect with you. Thank you for sharing yourself!

[@catherineross7776]

Erica. You are a warrior in life. You are forging ahead in such wonderful ways - I can see it and have only been watching you for about 6 months. Take your power over this and anything that gives you doubts. You are strong, you have vision, and empathy and we are so enjoying watching your journey xx

[@IrethEaron]

Thanks for your honesty. I too recently lost quite the amount of weight (I had a baby in late May 2020). Breastfeeding and a change in my diet let me loose 44 pounds! I am a little scared what happens to my weight now that I weaned my little one. But I want to stick to my healthier eating style and I am motivated to not go back to those extra 44 pounds. Your video expressed exactly what I needed to hear. I am not gonna give myself the "safety net" with my bigger clothes because I didn't feel good in them in the first place. Keep going, Erica! It's for our health, we can do this! Greeting from Germany!

[@candicewaller403]

So powerful! I especially love the part about acknowledging the inner bully. Working through that discomfort is so important in embracing your authentic feelings.

[@jerushacarlson]

I’m right there with you! I lost 21# in the last month. And I’m right there, too. The wool& 100 day dress challenge is in progress here, and I’m so scared that I’ll gain it all back and that I’ll be fat forever. I hate my body right now, and I look at myself and wish I could just cut the fat off. You resonate with me so much!!!! Thanks, cause I am not as good at silencing my own inner bully. Your words make me cry and feel better all at once!

[@sherylf8203]

Thank you for saying what so many of us feel. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Phil 4:13, You are doing so great. Slow and steady wins the race!

[@kamelijaatanasovska933]

Omg you just gave me so much encouragement.. the past 7 years I am dealing with weigh issues.. body issues it's an everyday thing I had dealt with it and recognized that each day my body will be different and I will feel different... So proud of you and I love the way that you are

[@angelamarden9684]

Oh you have such a way with words. You seem to say out loud what I can't verbalize for myself. I wanted to hug you through the screen today. You are amazing. Just keep swimming 🐟

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Just keep swimming!!

[@simplifiedmommy9718]

I never thought it as “I’m allowing me to gain weight”. I needed to hear this! Thank you

[@greatauntlizbethg9137]

What makes me comfortable is having 2 outfits a size bigger and smaller for each season, or adjustable waists. Permission to be comfortable no matter my size. You just gave yourself permission to expect you will succeed. Well done.

[@sophiebeaudoin5294]

I was overweight for a few years of my life only and I still fear putting the weight back on 20 years later... You won't put weight on again because you are not on a diet: you are making life adjustments that will make your body stay healthy. Your body knows what to do if you move and eat well! Congrats!!!

[@deborahdeboer1175]

You are amazing! The fact that you are sharing your struggle with us is a huge step in moving forward! You DO deserve underwear that fits!! You have worked very hard to get there! You are an inspiration on so many levels to so many of us and you will continue to move forward. I am confident that you will! Love you and what you do for your audience!!

[@lorenet.2182]

Erica please be kind to yourself. Give yourself some time. Let them go. It’s not worth the stress. You’ve got this!!

[@kimberlymiller655]

This was so good to watch and listen and understand. These are wonderful ideas and thoughts about how we as women beat each other up and we beat our selves up.

[@kamloopscruiser874]

🤗give yourself time to breathe. I lost a lot of weight in my 30s. Getting used to my new smaller size took MONTHS to get used to! I’m with you on the struggle to let go of these just in case items. Your ability to think and talk it through is what I wished I could have heard all those years ago. 🤗❤️👍

[@SauerPatchGardening]

You had me crying! I feel all that fear coming from you, but, you got this. I'm so glad I found your channel. You are so honest with us. I think we all have an inner bully. I'm learning how to shut her up too ! ❤

[@ritaty6181]

I know exactly where you’re at. I held on to larger items for that same fear. But, one day, I decided to let them go. Which was the best thing I did because once I felt my clothes not fitting the way I like, that was my red flag to be more aware of how my body is changing and more importantly, why it’s changing. So I catch it before it gets too bad and make adjustments early to get back on track and have the clothes fits comfortably again. This works for me. My red flag has kept me in a good spot with my weight and my clothes for three years.

[@juanitamayes6329]

Thank You ... I tweaked my diet in March and have dropped 18 pounds and everything is too big now. I needed this video to chunk the loose underwear too 💜

[@EricaLucasLoves]

Yea!!

[@cherylscholtz1769]

Erica Lewis wow wow 👏 I just love your transparency your honesty your vulnerability...it is giving permission to so many of us that it is ok to go through those feelings

[@bonitaquandt4862]

Thank you. You are enough. Tell the bully to pick on someone else, you are not taking this anymore. And thanks for showing me how to speak to my bully.

[@carriquilts218]

What a magnificent way to work through your emotions! I am so glad that you are sharing your journey. It is very inspiring to us all and I am so Thrilled to see your emotional growth. Don't let the inner bully win! Good job Erica!

[@marykeaton9373]

Erica, I just want to give you a big ole hug! I'd say most of us can relate to everything you said. I'm trying to get healthier, too, and got rid of my "fat clothes"; I've discovered that, by not having them to revert to, when my current clothes start to feel a bit snug, that's a non-scale nudge to reassess my food and activity and get back on track. Thanks so much for keeping it real and sharing! 💕

[@jwheeler2000]

Erica, I feel for you! Praying for your success. I'm sort of in the same place. One option also would be to pack away a 1/2 or 1/3 of your larger clothing in a box, put a date on it and quarantine them in basement. If in a year you haven't needed to open the box, you can throw it away. Yes, having the courage to toss is the best, but sometimes we need to take baby steps.

[@nancysherman4507]

Quit beating yourself up. Get rid of anything that makes you unhappy or uncomfortable. You deserve too be happy and beautiful.

[@judyellen4412]

Thank you for being honest. Good move to throw the undies away! Keep on, Erica. I saved clothes for many years after I lost weight. It makes it too easy not to keep moving forward. I have kept the weight off for11 or 12 yrs now. You can do this. Sometimes the bully in our mind is what other people have said to us in the past. Those people may not be around anymore so we take over for them and say the same things to ourselves. We can recognize that and change it. You are doing great!

[@susanadams8119]

Well done for losing weight and thank you for being so honest. I used to weight around 45lbs more than I do now. I have never regained more than a few pounds but it requires constant effort (although it's much easier now) to stay slim. I find that the fact that I have no clothes in a larger size in my wardrobe motivates me. However, the biggest motivator is staying healthy and that really is the most important thing.

[@luciegallagher2710]

Erica you are an amazing person regardless of the size you are but being healthy is definitely the right direction. Your honesty and openness is always inspirational so keep going! Keep putting one foot in front of the other, you are doing an awesome job xx

[@rachelvasquez252]

Undies are such a weird and stressful purchase. I finally decided to have only what fits me in my closet. If I don’t lose anymore weight that’s fine but I will not gain. Also, I can’t stress how important it is to keep the promises you make to yourself. You will become a better version of you in every way.

[@sallieredman7349]

Be brave. You deserve to feel healthy. Congrats. Help your children too by guiding them to eat healthfully like you do. They will be happier adults too. 😘

[@juanitaturner7019]

When you talked about your 100 walks and had joined Noom in order to lose weight something clicked for me. I had been walking every morning since the end of the school year. I decided this was the year to get healthier and do something for myself. I also joined Noom about 16 weeks ago and have lost almost 15 pounds. I’m more excited about how I feel and have way more energy. I have made walking in the mornings part of my routine which helps get my mornings started. Thank you Erica for your videos because I needed this extra incentive to get healthier. I’m excited to see your video about intermittent fasting.

[@dianerajkowski1291]

You are stronger than you were years ago. Worse case scenario the bully wins which you will pull from inner strength and stomp the crap out of the bully and it will run and hide.

[@liviadrusilla6778]

That's it, I am away to throw out my big comfy Pj's. I have been holding on to them for the exact same reason. I am going to enjoy my new smaller sized ones and IF I ever need a larger size then I am worth buying new ones. Thank you Erica xxx

[@milenagligorovska2314]

I am so glad intermittent fasting is working so well for you. It truly is life changing. If you think about it, it actually is minimalisam in eating :) The emotions that come up with weight loss and the self talk are so real and so discouraging sometimes. I am so glad you decided to share yours. Sometimes we feel it is just us struggling, but it is a common thing. It is almost like a bridge you need to cross to get to the other side of you...

[@shannontorrens1]

This is something we all go through for sure! It's great you are sharing this 😁💛 ps I finally had to buy larger undies 😁 it's good to be nice to ourselves and do what is working in the moment 💛

[@CammyHell]

The kids should join you on your journey. They don’t need sugary junk either. They have breakfast treats that are healthier options. I adore you. You are so raw and I love watching you on your journey and you’re right!! You do deserve new underwear!!!!

[@kacktie2844]

You are so inspiring!! You are helping more than you know. You are helping me with something I can’t talk about, I huge, huge burden. I went through a weight loss journey 10 years ago and lost 120 pounds. That’s not my burden right now and I’m not going to tell you it’s easy but it is worth it. And every time you fall (if you fall) I and everyone here will be here to pick you up again. But I don’t see big falls in your future. We all have little falls and those shouldn’t define your success. You are soooo positive and encouraging even to yourself. Your bully is nicer than my bully. For you to have the courage, even if it’s in the closet with us, is in and of itself very helpful and loving to yourself. I was having a terrible morning. You made me feel better and it looks like it made you feel better. Kept it up! Your personality alone brings life to others. I found you through the mega motivational things with Dawn and I don’t even think I’ve commented yet but I have greatly gotten to enjoy you and your awesome personality. I just am so excited for what the future holds for you. I hope you upload more because I look forward to it when KZbin has a dot next to your channel indicating a new video. Love and hugs to you! ❤️

[@rosmariekdittmer-jerzy1044]

Thank you for speaking about my thoughts, my inner arguments. I am praying for the women and you and I that the Lord will provide for each of us what we need. Erica, thank you!

[@bunacat1]

I am a person that has kept all different sizes in my closet for many years "just in case". My weight has gone up and down since my 20's (I am now in my 50's). This time I am going getting rid of my old clothes as I no longer need them. I understand your fears for sure, but what is the worst thing that can happen? You have to buy different underwear? Best thing that can happen, you will keep eating and being healthy. You are strong! Love you! Thanks for being so honest.

[@aleahduitsman9090]

I'm on a similar journey of intermittent fasting/losing weight/getting healthy (after 8 years of not being able to lose no matter what I tried). I love getting to watch you do the same. :) It's nice to be on the same journey with others. **HIGH FIVE** to you!!! For all your work and your sticking to it and that you are stopping to be mindful and process!! WOO HOO!!! 🎉🎉🎉

[@beckyunderwood4220]

I love the new way you are learning to talk to yourself and love yourself! Keep going! We are all rooting for you ❤️

[@susandaugherty7035]

I needed to hear these words today! I get so drugged down by my inner bully and over think process things. I like you have been going through a transformation this past several months.

[@sunnaarnadottir5384]

I honestly needed this, I've been struggling with "the sugar monster" and procrastination issues for a while now and just feeling stuck in a rut. This really motivates me to actually change that.

[@alexmaillet1631]

Thank you for being so honest, transparent on youtube. You are keeping it real and showing me ( and all of us) how being vulnerable is empowering! Wow that is a beautiful video and congratulations on throwing out your underwear and for realizing that is was actually bringing you down. By the way, weight is not the indicator of health. Someone can be super slim and still be unhealthy. There are a lot of different parameters that come into play when it comes to health. So happy for you that you feel better and better! Sending love from France