OK, it’s my Slimming World weigh day today. I have to say that I am a little nervous about what the scales will say. It seems more crucial when I go to weigh at my friends group. She knows me, she knows what my week has been like and what I have done. It’s almost like a secret club. But there is a look of acknowledgement from her that says it all. Don’t muck up my weekly figures. (Yes, all Consultants must record their weekly losses and gains that get reported back to Slimming World. If they don’t get good losses from their members, they have to figure out why. Generally, this means more training and coaching from their team developers).
I have followed the plan as best as I can. On my home scales, there is a loss and quite a nice one, but these are not my home scales. They are not in public, and I have clothes on! Before you start, I know you should only weigh yourself once a week on one set of scales. Logically, I know this, but I have years of standing on a scale and just looking. I will admit that sometimes it can be an unhealthy habit and one I am working on. Depending on the number, it can make or break your day.
Scales and me
When working in Bristol, I remember one of the ladies’ bathrooms had a set of scales. I avoided the bathroom like the plague. If I went in there, I just had to step on them. It’s an addiction. They have this magic-pulling power that is virtually impossible to resist. There you go, my little secret is out.
The weigh day didn’t unfold quite as smoothly as I had hoped. As you know, I decided to join my friends group that is in a town 10 miles from home. The group that starts at 9 a.m. and finishes at 10.30 a.m. However, my business doors, as it were open from 9 am and I start to get calls.
I took a Doggie Bag with me to my Slimming World Weigh Day
As I mentioned I run my own business. As a result, I need to promote that business. Therefore, each Friday, I attend a business networking event in a local hotel to promote that business. As part of that meeting, there is a Full English Breakfast. I am a massive fan of the British Breakfast and enjoy my meal. There is always one small slice of bacon, an egg, half a beef mushroom, half a tomato, a hash brown and a slice of toast. Not very much, if I am honest, and it’s not very well cooked.
However, I decided to take a “doggie bag” with me on this particular occasion. The breakfast and meeting cost around £30.00, and although I don’t mind not eating some of the breakfast on offer, I don’t often turn up at a meeting and sit there while everyone else is eating. I didn’t eat there on this occasion as I was nervous about the weigh-in. Therefore, I discreetly transferred the meal into a trusty doggie bag. I wasn’t that discreet; everyone knew what I was doing. Sometimes, I am just too honest!
Slimming World Weigh Day
I managed to get to my new Slimming World group and duly waited in line to be weighed. It’s such a strange feeling to be a member after such a long time. I made my way over the scales. That black box that every dieter hates. Taking my shoes off, I handed the lady my card, stepped on the scales, and waited for the little beep to stop. Eventually, it told me that I had lost 3 pounds.
I am thrilled that I have lost 3 pounds outwardly. However, the last time I had a first week at Slimming World, I lost 5 pounds and secretly wanted to lose five again. Never mind, I stayed in the group and enjoyed Image Therapy.
A little jealous of 7 pounds
Interestingly, another member had lost 7 pounds in her first week. I was jealous of her loss. I know we are all on different weight loss journeys, but I want hers.
I’m setting my sights on a weight loss goal of 3 pounds again this week. I suspect it might just be 2. Nevertheless, regardless of the outcome, I’m determined to push myself to achieve that 3-pound target. Reflecting on the week that’s just passed, it feels like a positive start to my journey as a Slimming World member.
It’s curious how a seemingly small number on the scale can bring about such a profound sense of accomplishment and joy. It’s not just a number; it’s a symbol of the hard work and dedication I’ve poured into my health and overall well-being throughout the week.
Its just a number
This number represents a myriad of choices and decisions I made during the week. It stands for the resolve I had to choose healthier food options overindulgent ones, to resist that tempting snack, and to embrace physical activity rather than laziness. Every time I consciously tried to reach for a glass of water instead of a hot chocolate, I told you twice. I even ate an apple instead of some chocolate after a very stressful phone call from a client. I incorporated more fruits and vegetables into my meals, ultimately contributing to this number. They all count those countless steps taken in pursuit of an active lifestyle (10,000 for me and recorded on my watch). That number on the scale demonstrates my commitment to a healthier me.
It’s not just about the number; it’s the consistency behind it. Over time, it reflects my journey filled with ups and downs, but most importantly, it’s the unwavering determination to keep moving forward. It’s those moments of resisting the temptation of a sweet treat or staying motivated when progress feels slow. The numerous meals planned (21 in total) focus on nutrition, preparation, and the willpower to say no when needed. It’s the investment in self-care and the belief that each small step matters.
Putting myself under pressure
This little number is a testament to the mental strength I’ve developed along the way. It signifies the ability to push through self-doubt and persevere when the going gets tough. It’s a marker of my evolving relationship with food, where I’ve learned to find balance and moderation while still enjoying the pleasures of eating.
As I look at this number, I see more than just a figure; I see a lifestyle change. It represents a profound transformation, not just in my physical appearance but also in my mindset. I’ve become more mindful, conscious of my choices, and determined to be my best version.
So, why does such a seemingly small number bring so much joy? Because it embodies so much more than its numerical value. It’s a symbol of my dedication to a healthier and happier me. It’s a reminder that every effort, every healthy choice, and every step taken towards well-being is worth it. This little number is the beacon of my journey towards a brighter, healthier future. So, no pressure on next week on y Slimming World Weigh Day at all!
Slimming World Snacks that Energise, Empower to Enjoy
As I prepare to help my friend run her regular Slimming World group today, I’m still thinking about what she said about yesterday’s cover group. “The group was so much fun”, and she “would certainly go back there again”. How can we make our group like that or is it already and we don’t realise?
The life of a Slimming World consultant can be physically and mentally demanding. One of my favourite things is to watch my friend as she celebrates with a member when there is a win. You can see the love and support over both their faces.
Let’s Talk Snacks
Let me tell you more about the world of the slimming world and snacks—those wonderful morsels that keep us going between meals while staying firmly on our weight loss journey. This is one of the many questions a consultant is always asked. What snacks can I have? When should I eat a snack, and how often can I eat snacks?
The Consultant’s Balancing Act
Before we embark on a snack-filled adventure, allow me to shed some light on the life of a Slimming World consultant, second hand and from a unique perspective. It’s no understatement to say that running a group feels like a theatrical performance. Each week, my friend transform into a motivational force, guiding and uplifting our members, much like a performance on a stage. Being a Slimming World consultant can be both exhilarating and demanding, but it’s a role she wholeheartedly embraces. She’s has to stay positive, build her members up mentally, and set them on the path to a tremendous week ahead.
In group, she has to anticipate the expect needs of her members, boost their self-esteem, encourage them to look forward to the next week and plan for a successful weight loss. All the while, ensure everyone feels heard and involved in the conversation. This dynamic journey, often lasting for three hours, requires constant positivity, cheerfulness, and a wealth of advice. Being at the centre of it all, as the most crucial person in the room, can be an ego trip, but her passion for this role drives her to celebrate and succeed alongside her members. It’s exhausting to watch.
Snacking 101: Fuelling Your Day
Now, let’s dive into the heart of this discussion—snacking. Snacking is a crucial part of our daily routine. A well-timed snack satisfies our cravings and keeps our energy levels up. On the Slimming World plan, snacks are pivotal in helping us stay on track and avoid those mid-meal slip-ups.
The Art of Choice and Moderation
Imagine being told that all you could eat was a lettuce leaf—how discouraging that would be! The beauty of the Slimming World plan is that nothing is off-limits. The philosophy revolves around choice, control, and, most importantly, portion control. Slimming World wants to empower you to make conscious decisions about what you eat and how much you eat.
So, what about that sweet tooth that occasionally calls your name? Or yells at you so loudly that you are sure the entire world can hear. If a chocolate bar is what you want, go for it. But here’s the trick: choose a smaller bar, typically 25 grams. Depending on the brand and type, this treat will range from 4 to 6 syns. Speaking of my favourites, I’m fond of the bliss bar, at just four syns. Alternatively, Aldi’s tiny white chocolate bars have only six syns. Cadbury’s Twirl is 5 syns and Smarties are 6 syns.
Snacking Without Guilt
Restricting anything we fancy or labelling snacks as ‘bad food’ can often backfire. The “forbidden fruit” becomes even more enticing when those rebellious cravings strike. Whether because you’re feeling down or simply want to challenge yourself. In my experience, there are no foods I cannot eat. Instead, I choose to focus on moderating the amount I consume. Why would you deny yourself the pleasure of enjoying what you love?
A Snacking Reminder: Stay Energised and Empowered
As we wrap up this snacking journey, remember that snacking is more than just appeasing your taste buds. It’s a way to stay energised, maintain your focus, and fuel your daily adventures. With the Slimming World philosophy of choice and control, you can enjoy various snacks while staying on track.
Snacks
If you feel that slump during the day or 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. are your low points when you reach for something, grab a snack. We want you to stay on plan and not sabotage yourself. Snacks are so important. I have at least one snack every day. What is it I can eat? The simple answer is anything. As I mentioned above, chocolate is my go-to snack.
You choose what you want. No foods are off the list when you are in a slimming world. If you think about it logically, it can’t be. Food surrounds us all the time. If we, as consultants, told you that all you could eat was that lettuce leaf, you wouldn’t come back. You wouldn’t stick to the plan and would achieve your weight loss goals. What we ask is that you restrict the high fat, high-sugar foods, but if you want some, have them, just in moderation.
Here are a few snacks you could have:
Eggs, boiled, scrambled, crust-less quiche
Chicken drumsticks
Ham, boiled strips
Banana
Apple with Greek Low-Fat Yoghurt and cinnamon or Nut meg
Leftover from dinner from the night before.
Soup
I’m sure you get the idea from the list above. You can have anything you want. Just make sure it is part of your daily plan. If you want to use your Syns, use them. If you want to have more free food, do so. Remember that you are in control. Think about your portion sizes, food plan for the day, and weight loss goals for the week.
Next time you reach for a snack, savour the delight, embrace the freedom, and remember you have control. It’s your choice. Snacking on your Slimming World journey is about staying positive, taking back control, and making every bite is a conscious, empowering step toward your health and happiness. Enjoy your food and snacks without guilt and have fun.
You may also be interested in the following articles:
Slimming World consultants earn more money covering another Slimming World Consultants group. Let me explain.
One of the cardinal rules for weight loss management is not to get fixated on the number on the scales. Every consultant will tell you that, and every doctor, nurse and weight loss coach will tell you the same thing. If you are looking after your diet, eating better and taking control of your eating, you are doing well. I have never met a dieter who has understood, taken the head off or accepted this fact. Every dieter I know is ruled by the number on the scales.
We all know that the number doesn’t define us. It’s just an arbitrary number that, on the grand scale of things, is miniscule. However, it is the one number that can make or break your day. It’s the one number that emphasises to you and the world your dedication to your weight loss and how well you have done that week. Just like an exam, you are graded on your efforts. It does mean something. It means you are in control, and every slimmer I know wants that number to go down. Just plain and simple.
Stepping on the scales
The other thing a dieter should never do is step on the scales every day. Again, this is controversial. Some people do, and others don’t. It’s just a loose monitor of how you are doing. I go through stages of when I will weigh daily and when I won’t. At the moment, I am weighing officially once a week. Then I weigh at home mid week just to make sure I am staying on track.
How am I doing?
Today, I got on my scales ready for my home weight as a group in about two hours. I only lost half a pound. Half a pound, what the hell! I have been so good. Worked the plan and ensured that I have never gone over my syns. Assured that I have had a third of speed foods on my plate and refused cake and biscuits at my other job. To say I am disappointed is an understatement. My only thought is that I was a bit lax the previous few days before re-joining the new group.
Maybe I did eat well over my daily allowance for food intake. I really couldn’t tell you because I didn’t write it down. Now I only have half a pound to show for it. Before you say anything, I still have four days until my new official weigh-in. If you understand my meaning, I feel very blocked in the rear. I will not beat myself up over this, as I was hoping for a two-pound loss today as I wanted to lose 4 pounds this week.
Standing Tall
This will not ruin my day. I have four meetings today and need my energy for that. I have told some of my clients that I have restarted my weight loss goals and I am honest with them, it keeps me accountable. But I am massively disappointed in the scale number.
Running a Slimming World Group as cover, how much will the Consultant earn?
My friend ran a slimming World group for a colleague, Katie, who is sick today. She has one group, but there are three sessions. If a Consultant is going to make any money, each session should have at least 65 members. then you could earn about £19,000+ per year. However, this group had 83 members. Her first session had 51 members, the second had 10, and the final session had 22. There is room to grow; she will work on that in the next few months. Katie took over this group a few months ago. Before that, the group had 120ish members. For every group, you have to work in the proviso that 20% of the group will not turn up for one reason or another.
Katie’s Income
Other Slimming World consultants covering group isn’t cheap. Katie, for example, has to pay my friend, the covering consultant, a fixed fee of £30 per session. For running Katie’s group, she earned £90. This would be deducted from Katie’s percentage of earnings. Slimming World would not cover any of the fees. This means that Katie made very little. The money she took on the night was £345. Katie had to cover other expenses, including slimming world percentage (in this case, 50% as she has good numbers). Check out this article to discover more about the number of members and percentages. How much does a slimming World Consultant earn.
Income £345
Rent £104 (SW will cover 50%)
Rent rebate from SW £52
Total £293
Slimming Worlds fee 50% of the payments after rent £146.50
Cover consultant £90
Katie’s earnings £56.50
This does not include any commission on HiFi bars, magazines and books. This could go to the consultant you are covering if they gave you their stock or my friends if she took her own stock.
As you can see, having cover for a group will take most of the original consultants earnings, if you don’t have the numbers you will end up owning money! My friend has covered for other consultants, and they have ended up owing money, which isn’t good.
My friend said the sessions were fantastic; everyone welcomed her and had questions, and they had a laugh. She did say that the final session was good, but the members were tired and wanted to go home. One of the members started to take over the group, pack the room up, and ask people to put chairs, etc, away. She should have told her to be quiet, but she had literally just finished and was about to ask them to do that, so let it slide. There are times when members of a group tend to bully cover consultants. My friend has said that she doesn’t think she meant to but it comes across as bullying.
Ture Experience for another Slimming World consultants
I had heard of another consultants who has two members in her group who contradict everything she says. During IMAGE Therapy, they give their opinion on what the member should or shouldn’t do. They demean her at every opportunity and talk through her sessions, distracting other members.
She was in discussions with her team developer to either ask the members to leave her group and find a new one or find a way to get them on the side. If I was running a group, I think I would speak to them and ask them to leave if they continued.
These members liked their previous consultant and thought of the group as their group, and as such, they knew how to run the group. They aren’t even on her social team. To add insult to injury, they were target members, so the consultant earned nothing from their attendance. She has lost members because of them.
Picking your Battles as a Slimming World Consultant
I think you pick your battles. This lady wanted to get home; she had been there since 7 p.m., and it was now 8.15, and she wanted to get something to eat. Although my friend didn’t mind what she did, it put a bit of a spoiler on the final session.
If she covers this group again, I think she will know to finish it a little earlier, but they all had a good discussion, and people were talking and sharing stories, which is what it is all about. My friend felt it was a good session and she earnt £90.
Alternatively:- Empowering Women on their Food Optimising journey with Slimming World and Prioritising Self-Care and Taking Control – I couldn’t decided on which title to give this article. So its both.
A Feeling of Completeness and tranquillity
As I write this blog post, I’m filled with an inexplicable sense of positivity and an overwhelming feeling of happiness. I can’t put my finger on why. It’s one of those days when the weekend seemed to stretch forever. It feels like I have been away on holiday and am refreshed and ready for the world. I was looking forward to coming into the office, and woe betide anyone who tries to ruin my mood. Food Optimising has been brilliant this weekend, and I have filled up on speed foods and free foods. For more information on these foods, click here.
I usually try to work on my business finances on a Mondays and lock myself away from everyone. However, today was an exception. One of my Slimming World colleagues has been going through a tough time on their weight loss journey. We started at the same time and I have been a more successful then her. I am keen to help and support her. She asked if I wanted to meet up for a coffee and chat. I said yes and knew what she wanted to discuss. Maybe together, we could find out why she is making bad choices and how to get her back on the plan she wants to follow. I am also a life coach and help people reach their personal goals.
The Food Optimising Elephant in the Room
Our conversation meandered through various topics, circling everything except the elephant in the room. Eventually, I had to bring up her weight loss journey and food optimising with Slimming World. Taking a deep breath, she said that she knew what to do. She has done it before but struggles to achieve the weight loss she wants. When we discussed her food optimising choices, I got a sly little smile, a resigned a deep breath, and an honest answer. “I haven’t been making great choices”. We continued our chat about Food Optimising and what steps she could take to help her with better choices, and she left with an action plan.
I also suggested she talk to her consultant, she would also be happy to help.
Thinking about my friend and Food Optimising on Slimming World
She is a busy mum of four. She has two children under the age of 7 and two teenagers. Her husband is out at work and is often away for the week working. The responsibility of looking after the children and the home is left to her. As a result, she is always last on the list. Added to this, one of her parents is seriously ill, and she is a caregiver. She has a lot on her plate.
Is it a trend?
It’s not uncommon for women to put themselves last on the priority list, consistently placing family, friends, and work ahead of their own needs. It’s a selfless act driven by love and responsibility but often leaves little or no energy for self-care. This is what my friend is doing. She is giving everything to everyone except herself. This is when those less-than-ideal food optimising choices have started to creep in. It’s a shame because she is the bedrock of her family, like many other women worldwide. The one person with whom everything revolves.
It’s disheartening when I hear women resign to a perpetual second place in their lives. My message to them is simple: “NO, YOU ARE NOT SECOND; YOU ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT PERSON IN YOUR HOUSEHOLD.” I encourage them to find just five or ten minutes to be themselves, to rediscover the passions they had as children. It could be as simple as listening to a favourite song, dancing, taking an exercise class, writing in a journal, or immersing themselves in a book or magazine.
I’m on my high horse – just so you know, a rant is about to follow
Regrettably, too few women take these moments for themselves. Yet, when a woman begins to prioritise herself, she gains control over her life. Whether that involves taking control of her eating habits or embarking on a weight loss journey like, it’s a decisive step toward self-empowerment. And remember, we’re here to offer guidance and unwavering support every step of the way.
When a woman embarks on self-discovery, strengthening her inner resolve, and learning to believe in herself, she undergoes a profound transformation. It’s as if she unlocks a wellspring of untapped potential and resilience, ready to propel her toward her goals and aspirations. This newfound strength is a physical manifestation and a profound shift in mindset and self-perception.
As she nurtures her well-being, tending to her physical, mental, and emotional health, she emerges as a formidable force capable of surmounting any obstacle that crosses her path. The trials and tribulations that once seemed impossible are now mere stepping stones on her journey to greatness. She faces challenges with courage, determination, and a sense of purpose, unshaken by the doubts and insecurities that may have held her back in the past.
A message to all incredible women
To all the incredible women out there, never forget that you are the heroines of your own stories. Your life’s narrative is written by your choices, dreams, and actions. It’s a tale of resilience, strength, and the relentless pursuit of your potential. You are not defined by the roles you play or the expectations placed upon you. Instead, you are defined by your choices and the unyielding belief you hold in your abilities.
In a world that often demands selflessness and sacrifice, prioritising self-care is crucial. This is not an act of selfishness but a necessary investment in your own well-being. When you care for yourself, you become better equipped to care for others, and your impact on the world multiplies exponentially.
So, stand tall, take control of your life, and watch as you radiate with an inner light that can only be ignited when you prioritise your needs and dreams. As you invest in your own growth and happiness, you become the best version of yourself—an inspiration to those around you and a testament to the incredible power that resides within every woman.
You are not alone
Remember that you are not alone in your journey of self-discovery and empowerment. There is a community of women who share your aspirations, dreams, and challenges. Lean on this sisterhood for support, encouragement, and shared wisdom. Together, we can redefine the narrative of what it means to be a woman, breaking free from the constraints of society’s expectations and forging our paths toward success and fulfilment.
So, to all the remarkable women, not just in the Slimming World group, but all women. I say this: Prioritise self-care, nurture your inner strength, and embrace the transformative journey ahead. You are capable of achieving greatness, and your story is one of inspiration and empowerment. Let your light shine brightly, for you are a force to be reckoned with, and the world is a better place with your unique brilliance.
Not sure about you, but I find there is always a wavier day on Slimming World. That day in the week where you think I have tried so hard for such a long time and nothing to show for it. For me it’s day 3. I know, not enough time, but day three is my challenge day.
Day three was a Sunday, meaning we were about to have my favourite meal of the week. Roast Pork, roast potatoes, cabbage, broccoli, carrots and sometimes sweet corn. I also use some of my syns on gravy granules. I love to smother my potatoes in gravy. This is the one day I know that I will stick to my plan. Breakfast was satsumas, grapes and apples covered in Greek fat-free yoghurt and cinnamon. Then it’s waiting until lunch time. We eat at about 3 p.m., so a big meal will keep you stuffed until bedtime. I may grab a bliss bar or packet of crisps at about 7:30 p.m. Got to love a roast.
Day 3 is typically my waiver day on Slimming World
You are so good on days one and two that all the weight should have fallen off by now. But alas, no, it’s still onwards and upwards. I have been thinking about my goal for this week. I want to lose 4 pounds. When I first started Slimming World, I lost 5 pounds, but I don’t think it will be as good this time.
Nevertheless, this is going to be my target. My first target that I will concentrate on is 10 pounds. Ideally I want to lose three stone, then I can call it a day. I don’t want to spend my life trying to lose weight. I want to spend my days at target. A very different proposition. However, at my age, I don’t think I have three stone on me to lose. I don’t want to end up look haggard and gaunt. My first goal is the that pesky 10 pounds in six weeks.
My home wouldn’t be complete without a dog, and my little Molly is fantastic. A small terrier that gives you all the love you need. Today is her walk. That means she selects the route when we go out, and I follow her. Today, she went to the allotments to quickly wander around before heading back uphill via a local field. She loved it.
One of the other plans I am undertaking during the next 6 weeks is to turn my bedroom into a haven of tranquillity. So, today, I also spent two hours decluttering and tidying. I have one quick question: how can someone have so many odd socks. How does that happen? Is there some sock monster that only likes odd socks? Ridiculous.
Binning old Clothes
I have an issue throwing away some of my older and larger clothes. I keep telling myself that I may need the again. Alternatively, I might take them in and redesign them. I’m not sure I have the skill, but I hope this decluttering will make me ditch some clothes that no longer work for me. I am pretty proud of myself today. I selected a pair of trousers, a top and a cardigan for work. After looking at the outfit in the mirror, I looked like a drowned rat. The clothes swamped me. Instead of ignoring the look, I changed to better-fitting clothes and looked much better.
This may sound like a silly remark to make, but most of us who are on diets have massive body issues. I have one. I don’t know where it came from or when it will go. Its there and has been there most of my life. I expect it will always be there. It rears its head occasionally, like today, but other times, it is well under control, and I manage it.
To be clear, I don’t see myself as two sizes larger than I am. I don’t think of myself as obese anymore. I look in the mirror and imagine how I want to look. My tummy needs to be flatter and I would like smaller breasts and a waist. That’s it. I’m getting there, and once I reach my ideal weight, I will find something else to focus on.
I am still passionate about my weight loss plan. Day three is under my belt, and I look forward to day four.
Fear not. The banana issue will be shared later in this blog.
