Hi - I am new to the site and am getting married in September of 2010. I have approximately 80 pounds I want to lose to fit into that "perfect" wedding dress. My biggest issue encountered thus far in having success with my weight loss initiatives is the professional lifestyle I live and being highly ambitious and motivated in the business world, as my coworkers are all of similar ages and life stages, and it seems as if happy hour, wine nights, etc. are an every other day occurence. I really enjoy these people and the networking opportunities are important for continued upward mobilization, however I feel as if this is the one largest obstacle in the way of my weight loss. Any suggestions?

i've found myself in the same position, as I'm in sales and have a lot of luncheons and after hours networking functions. I know either only drink water when I'm at a function or limit myself to one drink. If I am heading to a luncheon where I don't know what kind of food they'll have or I know what they have isn't healthy I'll grab lunch before I go. That also allows me to do more networking since I'm not eating. I too am getting married next year and though saying no to wine isn't easy, knowing how good I'll look on my wedding day and on my honeymoon makes it a lot easier than it used to be. Plus now that I'm working out I don't want it all to go to waste.

I would suggest going to 3 events per week. That way you have the weekend plus two more days during the week to dedicate to getting a good workout in. Also you still are doing the after work activities, but you don't have to go to them all. You can do it!

This is simple. If you know you are going to an event where you may drink wine, beer, mixed drinks, etc, look up the calories in each one. If you go into it knowing what you are going to add to your body while you are there you will think differently I PROMISE! I have been on a 1200 calorie a day diet for 5 days and i write down every single thing in my food journal. I have become SO much more aware. Pick 2 wines/beers that are low in calories and only drink those. Limit yourself to two or give up something else that you would have eaten that day. Self control it works!