This morning as I was getting dressed, I looked in the mirror and realized I was happy with myself.  It has been a few weeks since I have said or thought anything negative about my body (not talking about the greasy hair and 12 year old boy acne here:).  Back in the day I never had anything positive to say about my body and now I might even be getting a little cocky:)

Besides the amazing relationships in my life (you guys included), running and fueling my body the right ways, there is a reason that I am feeling so much happier with myself…… it is because of a habit that I have broke that has made all the difference in the world to me.

I used to weigh myself 1-2 times everyday for many years.

It didn’t matter WHAT the number said or even if I thought I looked great in the mirror, as soon as I stood on the scale I felt like junk.  I let the number define me and determine the type of day I was going to have.  Even though I KNEW that I was ‘fit’ it didn’t matter, the scale changed my whole perspective on myself.

Since I got my treadmill and I have been running outside (we don’t have a scale at home, I always weighed myself at the gym) I haven’t even had the temptation to step on the scale for a few weeks and it feels absolutely amazing.   How dare I let some silly electronic device decide my mood.

I know that people recommend getting on the scale once a week and it can be very beneficial for some people but for ME, I am banning the scale because I found that it brings NEGATIVE thoughts for me so why in the world would I continue to do something that makes me sad or negative about myself.

I feel so much more confident. I have finally come to accept and love my body just the way it is and thank it for allowing me to run, play and hug people (sorry to be cheesy).  The scale tried to take those feelings from me for way too many years.

I am calling this a victory in my book.

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Sorry for the awkward arm pit shot.

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I challenge you to CUT something out in your life that doesn’t make you feel pretty or good enough.  Whether it is cutting out looking at magazines with photo-shopped models, watching E Hollywood, constantly weighing yourself, a relationship that brings you down or an addiction.  Take control today and DECIDE that you don’t need that in your life to bring you down.

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What are your thoughts on the scale?

Does the scale effect your mood?

How often do you weigh yourself?

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150 comments

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YAY victory!

I'm weighing myself right now only because I'm trying to hit a race weight before my 24 hour ultramarathon. Normally I ignore the thing because muscles are the bomb.

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I have purposely not bought a scale since I used to weigh myself all the time in high school (maybe 5x every single day). I gained a lot of weight since then that I maybe wouldn't have otherwise, but I have a healthier relationship with my body now.

I want to know how much I weigh more often now but I still don't trust myself to use it responsibly.

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I'm right there with ya! I used to weigh myself once a day, sometimes more. I haven't weighed myself in a month. And even though I wonder a little, I FEEL so good. I know I'm healthy, and I'm happy with my body and it's performance. So for now, I don't need no stinkin scale!

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I've never owned a scale…probably should, I think I've got some winter poundage on! Ha!

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I did this with textsfromlastnight.com a while back. Not quite the same thing but it was making me feel really terrible about the state of humanity and even making me distrustful of the people in my life. Since I stopped reading it all of that has gone away.

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I love you Janae! You're changing the world one beautiful woman at a time! Such a great post! So important to love ourselves! I used to be obsessed with the scale in college. No good. My roommates hid it from me or took the batteries out. Ha! Now , we don't own a scale…never have. I have been thinking about this issue for a few weeks now and have a post in the mental works about weight and race weight issues for runners, etc. Such a good topic!

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The scale does affect my mood because I don't use one. I won't even get on one at the doctor's office.. who cares?

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Awesome! Love that picture as a celebration!

I weigh myself maybe once every couple of months (more often when I was pregnant just because I was fascinated with all that weight-gain!). I seem to be very steady. I like not owning a scale and I don't go to a gym. The only place I go (maybe once a month or less often) that has a scale is the local Environmental Education Center (!) where there is one as part of an exhibit for kids.. lol.

In the past the scale did have an effect on me. Not a whole lot, but I do need to acknowledge that it was there.

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I hate the scale, because I don't feel like I weigh as much as it says. I'm sick of letting numbers on a scale ruin my day, which is why I started using things like HR to measure my fitness.

I'm going to to try to stop having "bad" foods. It just makes me want them more and then I feel bad about myself for eating them. No good.

Congrats on breaking your scale habit! That's tough.

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Janae! That's amazing! I'm so glad to hear that you LOVE yourself because you ARE awesome. Pit shots are HOT!

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Janaaaaaae!! U are soo soo cute and awesomesauce!!! :)

We dont have a scale either but when i did, it would most def define my day. First time to weigh in ages was when i was preggo. :)

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Janae- this post just opened my eyes and I'm reslly not kidding. I'm only 17 but i've been stepping on the scale every single day (multiple times a day) for as many years as I can remember and today was the lowest it's been in GOD KNOWS HOW LONG. I was happy at first, but then I realized later (ahem after reading this) that what I saw on that scale was only a silly NUMBER. I need to stop weighing myself because I know if it went up .2 pounds or went down .2 pounds it would dictate my day and how I feel about myself. I can't say that my body issues will go away forever, but I am finally realizing that the scale is honestly the enemy (for me) right now and I really need to kick it to the curb. Thank you so much.

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I didn't step on a scale for years and years and years… because I KNEW I was overweight and was definitely NOT fit. Now I have lost 70lbs and am running marathons and feel like a whole new person. I do weigh myself every morning, but I know what is normal for me and if I am up a pound it is not a big deal and doesn't define me or ruin my day (as I know it will be back down in a day or two). I feel proud now when I step on the scale and am still getting used to seeing numbers in the 130's instead of over 200lbs.
Erin
http://seemomrunfar.blogspot.com/

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Thank you thank you thank you for writing this post! I have been pretty down on myself lately because I have gained a few (or ten) lbs over the winter. I don't weigh myself every day now just because I know it will make me feel terrible. And when I do, it does.

After reading this I am going to officially ban the scale for a while too and just focus on fueling with healthy foods that make me run strong. You are awesome!

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Meh. I hate the scale. Unfortunately it is a necessary evil for me right now because i am doing Weight Watchers.

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The scale always affects my mood. I depend on it way too much. I think I will put it away for a few weeks to see how I feel! Thank you for the inspiration :)

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I am obsessive about my weight. I have lost thirty pounds and I feel like I still have more to loose even though I am 120lbs. I used to weigh myself every chance I could get. If it even went up .1 lbs I would freak out and not eat for the rest of the day. Over the past few months I have limited it to once a week so that way I I can keep on track but not let it control my life.

I am so glad that you are happy now! Scales can be nasty things!

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I think I can honestly say, I just don't care about the scale. Thank the Lord for that, literally. I am, however, negative in other ways. I always think my face gets chubby, lol. I should stop. I WILL stop. Thanks Janae, your rock!

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Janae, you know my story and my struggles so I won't backtrack or recap. But, I decided to finally give up the scale a couple years ago. I went 2 whole years without EVER stepping on a scale. I went from weighing myself about 4 times a day to ZERO. When I went to the doctor I would turn backwards and tell them I didn't want to know my weight. Why? Because I let that stupid number define me.

About a year ago, someone told me I looked like I lost weight so I finally decided to step on the old scale. I was surprised. Not because of the number, but because I was HAPPY with the number. It was still higher than it was in the past but I felt great. (Recently my medical records all went paperless and I can access them online, so I am able to see all of my previous weights. I actually dropped 10lbs unknowingly at the beginning of last year).

I feel great. We should never let a scale dictate our mood or our view of ourselves.

You are beautiful and I am thrilled that you have said good-bye to Mr.Scale.

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I don't usually like to weigh myself, but I'm having to now to see if I'm gaining weight. After I hit my goal, though, no more scale for me! =D

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I HATE the scale. In fact, I hardly ever get on it. Maybe once every couple of months? I don't want to ever become defined by a number that I feel I need to see on that scale. I'm the type of person that could easily "go there" with my past history of weight-loss. I know my triggers, and I know that the scale is one of them. I avoid it at all costs. Instead I just listen to my body and pay attention to how I feel rather than what I think a stupid scale should say! :) Kudos to you on your victory! Bytheway…love your blog! Discovered it a couple weeks ago and I'm hooked!

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I will step on the scale occasionally, but I try not to obsess with it. I can usually tell through my pants whether I've gained or lost weight.

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I just have to say – I LOVE your blog! You are such an inspiration! I hate the scale as well – for YEARS I would count ever pound as it went up and down…I have now cut it out as well aiming to focus more on how I feel knowing I am healthy and a number on a scale does not make me who I am! Congrats on this awesome victory!

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Such a good idea! I actually avoided weighing myself for years up til recently because I knew it would make me obsess. Same thing with looking at calories. I would actually get really upset when I'd happen to catch a glimpse or another calorie conscious girl I was with would announce it.
That method really worked for me when those numbers affected me more. Now, I'll weigh myself maybe once a week and focus on seeing it as a measure of just ONE aspect of fitness. Even if I'm at my higher end, I'll remind myself that I go up and down, and it always does go down even without obsessing and "micromanaging". AND I don't own a scale either, so it's easier to be reasonable about not weighing in too often.

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Girl, I completely agree. Last summer I let the scale define me and the type of day I was having.

Then one day I hung around and waited until the garbage man came and quickly threw it away ninja style and watched the garbage man drive away.

Greatest.Feeling.Ever.

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oh thats a GOOD CHALLENGE! I will need think of something really good. I don't own a scale either. Not sure the last time I weighed. For me, numbers are just numbers. I really don't want that to define me.
You are radiating! No number can create that.
;)\
LC

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oh thats a GOOD CHALLENGE! I will need think of something really good. I don't own a scale either. Not sure the last time I weighed. For me, numbers are just numbers. I really don't want that to define me.
You are radiating! No number can create that.
;)\
LC

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Janae,
I stopped weighing myself almost 3 years ago and it was the best decision I ever made. I'm not defined by a number and this has helped me so much in learning to accept myself and get rid of the majority of my negative thoughts.
I hope it works the same for you!

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I weighed myself this morning-I weigh myself once a week, sometimes twice.

I also do a monthly assesment with a trainer so I can see if my muscle mass is good and vo2 is good.

I am trynna get to race weight, which for my height is 114 pounds-I can't imagine being that small-I'm 123ish right now. I don't obsesses about it, but then I remidn myself of RACE weight when I want a third serving of pudding.

I'm happy you have no more scales dictating your mood! My husband told me i can't weigh myself it it will make me upset anymore, so that helped me stop letting numbers dictate how I feel about myself.

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The scale doesn't do me any good either. I used to weigh myself everyday (or multiple times per day) but it became an unhealthy thing for me, and I would so much rather focus on how I feel. Running also helped me a ton on this – once I began seeing myself as an athlete instead of a workout-to-be-skinny person, a lot of things changed.
Definitely with you on this one! So glad you broke a habit that was negative for you and replaced it with self-love :)

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I weigh myself probably once a week. I've never really had a negative relationship with the scale so it doesn't really play too much into my happiness or body ideal. It IS one of the reasons I get upset with my family members that are actively trying to lose weight. (there are about 8 all together that are motivating each other and using me as a *coach*) Sometimes its really hard to talk one of them out of a slump if they hit a slow week. I always try to point out whatever other successes they are having with their journey because healthy is a lifestyle…not a number.

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The last time I weighed my self was this winter at the doctor… other than that I don't get on the scale. We don't own one and I like it that way. I just go by how my clothes fit.

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I love every post you write and this one was especially awesome! For YEARS I would weigh myself twice a day and feel like shit… After I lost my "baby fat" (umm, at 20) I gave up the habit. Now I weigh myself out of curiosity a few times a year. If the pants fit I feel ok- but it took me a long time to get there.

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I too used to have a scale obsession. It was so bad at point that I would weigh myself on my scale and then immediately weigh myself again on my roommate's scale just to "double check". I now weigh myself about once a week just to keep an eye on things. Congrats on your new found cockiness!!

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I weigh myself daily, but I don't let it define my mood. It can keep me on track for the day, however, and that's why I do it. I don't think I will ever abandon the scale. As a former obese person I need that relationship in my life.

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Your posts always seem to give ideas how to change a negative mindset, so inspiring! I hardly ever weigh myself, but I used to all the time at the gym. I feel so much better when I focus on what my body can do (RUN!) instead of how much it weighs – there's really no point to constantly know my weight.

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I let the scale defined me. So sometimes I just cant get on it, because I let it control my every thought. When I am eating right I will weight myself once or twice a day. But when I am not eating right I try very hard to avoid the scale.

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I do weigh myself a few times a week. It keeps me in check, but I don't think it's the "health solution" for everyone. There are so many factors that can make your weight go up or down a few pounds, which can be really devastating for some people. I'm a numbers kind of girl, though, and seeing data just makes me feel informed. A girls gotta know if she can have two cupcakes or just one ;)

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I am wondering why you did weigh yourself as much as you said you did at the gym? You are VERY skinny. There is no reason for you to go on that scale. You need to gain some muscle mass. It will help with your strength as a marathon runner. If you put on a few pounds of muscle, you will notice how strong you will feel training. It would be a good thing. The fact you go on the scale makes me think you are concerned about your weight…which you should'nt be at all.

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Interesting you just posted this. We must be on the same wave-lengths. I just sent Chelsey (at clean eating Chelsey) my guest post on this EXACT subject today!

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I sooo needed to hear this post today!! Thank you!! Lately, I've been happy with the way I look, but think I need to be a certain weight to race well. It's been driving me insane. Weighing myself 2 times or more a day, I know, crazy. Right before I read your post, there were several things I vowed to myself today. One of them was not to weigh myself for at least a week. Hey, small steps. The scale totally effects my mood. And, lately, even though I like how I look, it's been bad. So, I vow to do things that make me feel good about myself…and the scale isn't involved :)
~Sarah

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You beautiful girl! I'm glad you are happy–you deserve it and you look gorgeous. I think most of us in blog world agree that we would love to look like you!

I weigh myself daily but just to make sure that I am on track and not having something sabotage me that sneaks up on me. So far the scale doesn't define me, and I'm thankful for that.

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Hii new reader. I gave up the scale last year when I was marathon training. My weight was fluctuating a lot from water/swelling/muscle/whatever and it made me really crazy. I was SO happy with my running and my body sooo why was I letting the scale make me mad? I've weighed myself 4-5 times since and my weight is always exactly the same! NUTS! Once you stop looking at the number and start looking in the mirror or noticing how your jeans fit… it's not too hard, and a lot better for my head :)

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You are such a smarty pants for being so young. I took away my full length mirror a couple of years ago because I would just sit and pick myself apart. I have never been so happy. I still weigh myself often. I need to see trends and it helps me to see if I'm dehydrated after a run. But I don't let that number dictate my happiness for the day. You are an amazing woman. We need to talk sometime soon. Love ya!

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Oh and ignore mr. anonymous up there. You are perfect and people don't know what criticism does to a person. Don't worry about someone thinking you're too skinny. I've seen you in real life and you look healthy. A slim, beautiful healthy girl. Not sickly at all. You're gorgeous.

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to add to the last comment. I am very happy to hear you are banning the scale. You have a tun of talent. The scale can hurt you more than benefit you. You go girl!

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Way to go, girl! I am trying to break my "relationship" with the scale because it is not healthy! I have been contemplating throwing it off my balcony and watching it smash into a million little pieces. :)

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I use clothes as a guide to see if I'm gaining/losing weight. Scales are awful!

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I never ever ever get on the scale – in high school I became really obsessive and was only concerned about the number it read – I love not weighing myself!

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Like you, I used to weight myself once if not two or three times a day. And if it didn't say a itty bitty number, I felt like crap.

So now, I don't own a scale. I haven't weighed myself in over 6 months. But I am healthy. I feel it. And I fit in my clothes just the same.

This is my victory, too! Thanks for sharing :D.

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I weigh myself everyday, unless I know I ate particularly bad the day before. It really helps me keep myself in check and make better choices if I'm higher than I should be one day.

I'm glad you don't feel the need to do that anymore, though! I would love to not weigh myself everyday. I've even tried, but once I do that I start gaining weight and don't notice until it's too late.

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GGiiirl I love you! I never ever weigh myself, mostly for the same reason but also because I am more of a person of instinct, and numbers on a scale do not mean as much to me as how things fit, how I look, etc.

You are BEAUTIFUL love!! And its fine armpit shots happen way too much:)

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I used to weigh myself religiously every day, and my mood was totally determined by it! Ironically, I'm quite a bit heavier than I was this time last year but I don't weigh myself nearly as often. I refuse to let it define me!

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No scale for me. I have never been interested in checking myself on a scale. Don't know why, but it has honestly never enticed me. I just go off how I feel and if I am being active, I know life is good.
I am so happy you are realizing your more happy without the scale. I think most woman would say the same!!!

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Good for you Janae! Definitely a freeing feeling to get to that point. I rarely weigh myself. Actually only maybe once a month. My weight can fluctuate so much from hour to hour or day to day when in reality my size doesn't really change. Furthermore, I honestly don't care what it says anymore. I used to weigh a lot less than I do now but could barely walk up the stairs, had ZERO muscle tone and my energy level was so low. All just trying to maintain a number on the scale. Garbage and not worth it. Proud of you, girl!

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I actually have not weighed myself since August. I started out as a size 12 (and I knew my weight then), and am now a size 6, and have been for a few months. I at first wasn't weighing myself b/c I kept forgetting to replace the batteries in my scale. But now I've almost been afraid to weigh myself, b/c if I see a number that I'm not happy with, it'll make me more upset. So at this point I have no idea how much I weigh! I just know what size of clothing I can wear.

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THat's so awesome that you found what works for you!!!
I actually do weigh myself everyday. I find that it keeps me accountable (althought not so much lately). :) The times I have stopped, I start eating more and letting my better habits slip because I know I won't have to see it in the morning. :)

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I don't like weighing myself either~! I am at a perfectly healthy weight and body fat % so I try not to weigh more then once a week. I tried counting calories for awhile and that drove me NUTS so I stopped that and am much happier :)

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Anonymous (wish I could reply directly):
First of all, if you read in Janae's archives, you will understand why she weighed herself so much. It may seem logical for you to just say "hey you're in shape, why weigh yourself" but it's a lot more complicated than that.

Second of all, unless you are a professional coach or a trainer, you have no right to tell somebody they "need to gain some muscle mass". She runs marathons in 3 hours – pretty sure she's got some muscle!! And how do you know she doesn't feel strong right now? That's not up to you to say or judge.

This post was meant to be positive! She DOESN'T go on the scale as much/anymore – indicator that she is COMFORTABLE with herself, the whole point of this post.

Please understand the point of the post before you negatively attack somebody. Your comment affected me, so I can imagine it affected Janae as well. If you are genuinely concerned with her well-being (and aren't just judging/criticizing), don't just post it in the comments. Thank you.

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Love the honesty!!! You go!!! I have no idea how much I weigh and I honestly don't even want to know :) The only scale I have access to is the scale in the gym, and it's basically located next to the busiest water fountain in the whole place. NO thanks!

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i go through phases where it matters and where it doesn't. interestingly it only matters when I haven't been eating as healthy..hmm maybe a whole mindset issue

way to go on your own personal victory!!! how i look and feel should always out weight any number

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I LOVE this post. Thank you for being so honest. It makes me think about the things that I do that make me feel bad about myself and how much better I could feel overall if I didn't do those things. You're seriously awesome!

Side note: I completely agree with Genevieve above. i can't believe people would say hurtful things to you. You're the best. I love reading about your life, you really are inspirational.

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I can totally relate. I went through a similar stage where a weighed myself constantly and it determined my day as well. When I got married, B Lee would NOT let a scale enter our home. I still weigh myself from time to time at the gym – but not nearly like I used to. Like you, I needed to cut the negativity! Thank you for your honesty – it's nice to know there are others like me! :)

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Great job Janae!!! I have cut way back on the scale. I'm still trying to shed some weight, but I only weigh myself on the 1st and 15th of the month to make sure I'm staying on track. That way i avoid feeling upset over everyday fluctuations, and I can see if what I'm doing is working or if I need to step up my game to get a little trimmer.

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The scale at my house lies to me – it is always 5-10lbs off…in a good way, until I use the scale at the gym and am shocked by what it has to say!

I seldom use the scale at the gym either – every few weeks or so…? Just to see where I'm at. At this point the number on the scale is really just a number, nothing more. I don't hate the number…yet!

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I am proud of you for overcoming that. It is terribly hard and many people just don't understand, especially when you are already thing. Sometimes what you see just doesn't match reality.

I used to be a habitual weigher as well and it was not good for me. Now I weigh myself about 2-3 times per year at the most (usually doctor's appointments) and that suits me well. I think that a scale can be a great tool for someone who is trying to lose weight. I think that in that case they should weigh themselves no more than once per week. Scales can be very scary for people but now I am happy when my clothes fit well. If they feel a little tight I try to cut back on the sweets a bit. It's much healthier for me that way.

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I know if my scale worked I would be weighing myself and loathing the results every day. I'm glad the battery is dead on it.

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First, big hug. Great post.

I was struggling with the scale while applying for college admission, and wrote all my college app essays about recovering from my "demons". My parents ready them, and were like "whuck?" …

.

Haven't weighed myself since I had my last babe 2 1/2 years ago. It's freeing. My body does AMAZING things. I grew a human. I made food for that human. I run. I love. I am happy. I have long arms for giving big hugs. And, I would give one to you.

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I used to let the scale decide my mood but now I just weigh myself whenever I want. I use my clothes as a scale now to know if I should be having one or two scoops of ice cream :) Good for you for leaving behind the negative thoughts!

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Hi Janae, you always say we are best friends…and I am CONVINCED that we are! I too was controlled by the scale on a daily basis…it impacted my entire day and would also drive me to work our 2 or 3x a day..which led to 2 stress fractures. About 3 weeks ago I broke down to my husband about gaining two pounds (there were tears) and he threw out the scale. I didn't sleep for a couple of nights due to nerves (what would I do if I gained weight? How will I know if I don't have a scale?? I wonder if the garbage men have come???.) I can hapily say that I feel much better now and I am much happier not being influenced by a number.
Anyhooters…I love your blog and think you are stinking hilarious. If I lived in UTAH we would definitely run together.

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The scale used to have control over me but not anymore. I still actually use the scale but the number doesn't bother me — I simply use the scale to weigh myself about once a week but then also during long runs for hydration purposes (however, that would defeat the purpose for you since you have a long run like everyday :P)

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I was weighing myself alot, but then I just kept getting frustrated with the number, so I don't really anymore. Haha. Your posts are so beautiful and inspirational. Thanks for just being you!

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I don't think I've stepped on a scale in a year! Thought I might just start doing it out of curiosity every once in a while.

You are so fit and beautiful! It is so strange to me that you would be worried! I'm glad you've overcome that!

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I hate the scale. Not because of the number (well I don't like it anyway), but because my home scale and the doctor's scale never, ever match. And mine at home can be adjusted so you can make the pointer be in the negatives before you step on. Total manipulation right there! I check my weight very occasionally but it really doesn't impact me. If my clothes fit without any tightness, I'm happy. Or if my body looks rockin' hot, I'm happy. Any clothing tightness or tummy flub, I start hitting the gym even more or pounding out some more miles and I'm happy again! I'm glad you've stopped caring how much gravity you have :)

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i learned a long time ago to NEVER weigh. When I am prego, I get freaked out with all that weighing…like the old me…when non prego I never weigh!!!!!!! I will not let a number define me. ec

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Oh my gosh Janae!! My older sister and I have this conversation all the time!! We always say how whatever the scale says sets the mood for the day… It's so annoying but so true!! I love your honesty cause I know that a lot of women feel this way. Your smart to finally love your body cause it's fabulous!! You are the most gorgeous girl and you def should embrace your body!! I am never satisfied either, no matter what the scale says!!
I just love you and what a great post!!
Xoxo jenn :)

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Oh my gosh Janae!! My older sister and I have this conversation all the time!! We always say how whatever the scale says sets the mood for the day… It's so annoying but so true!! I love your honesty cause I know that a lot of women feel this way. Your smart to finally love your body cause it's fabulous!! You are the most gorgeous girl and you def should embrace your body!! I am never satisfied either, no matter what the scale says!!
I just love you and what a great post!!
Xoxo jenn :)

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Unfortunately, I weight myself when I'm feeling low because when I'm feeling fat, I need comfirmation that I probably gained some weight. SAD I know! My hopes by doing that is to keep my body in check, but it only makes the weight creep on faster.

I need to feel good… hopefully by becoming a runner I can do that.

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never owned a scale and i don't really want to because of the reasons you mentioned. i run alot and eat healthy, so getting weighed at the doctor every year is fine by me (and the occasional time where i'm at a friend's house for the weekend or whatever). i think i'd make myself crazy and get into "competition" mentality. weight is more than a number…it's sooo psychological and i don't want to get myself in that mess. way to go cutting it out!

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I weigh myself ALL THE TIME! Yes it bothers me I've got 10 pounds that REFUSE to leave my body.. sigh

Thank you for saying such encouraging words to me, you are an incredible person Janae, I hope I get the pleasure of meeting you someday!

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My thoughts on the scale… I think they are good for once every week/two weeks. Probably more towards two weeks. I think it's important for people to track it somewhat because of illness, etc. They can be helpful in that way; however, i had a battle with the scale throughout high school and it affected my mood greatly. "Only 5 more pounds… 5 more would be better…etc" It really depends on how much you can handle numbers and realize they don't mean much. That's something I can't do… So I stay far, far away from scales. I actually weighed myself for the first time in about 2-3 months last weekend. I was surprised to see I dropped a few pounds. I hated the fact I weighed myself though because I knew it was low and I didn't exactly reject the weight… Which, in turn, is making these past two weeks hell for me. :(

I challenge myself every day to completely overcome my disorder… Considering I am trying to train for a halfy, I know eating well balanced is right. I know, as well, I'm allowed to eat frozen yogurt, girl scout cookies, and peanut butter… But when you eat a box of girlscout cookies in two days, a quart of frozen yogurt the next two days, and 3 jars of peanut butter in ONE week… Then things become a problem.

Sorry for the long comment, but I'm trying to take the challenge, lady! I really am trying!

And I'm glad you've finally overcome your fear. I really, really hope I can get there one day!

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The scale is DUMB! Crazy how numbers can be so controlling! I LOVE this post and so happy that you have come to a place in which you are happy with YOU!!

Katie :)

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Great post :) I hope this post reaches those that need to read this! I try to only weigh myself once a week so I know if I've gained too much, etc. I tend to hover over a certain weight anyway so it's more just a check in. It's doesn't so much alter my mood any more than a "yay" or "ugh!" So I think the scale should be used as a check-in unless you're trying to lose a lot of weight. But once a week maybe twice a week is pretty good. But again, whatever one feels comfortable with!

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Wow – do you read all of these comments??

I used to weigh every day. When I had 80lbs to loose, it was exciting to see what happened seemingly "overnight." Now, I weigh once a month (okay, I will step on there at least once in between!) I have lost over 60lbs and train like a mad woman. I am an athlete now, not an obese 35yr old, mother of 4!

Changing my mind has been hard – and with only a few pounds to go to my goal, things are s.l.o.w. to come off. But, I know that a stupid piece of equipment with a number on it has the power to make or break my day – so I stay away from it!

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I wrote a post about this a while ago – I haven't weighed myself for over 3 months and I feel better than ever. It was a comfort thing for me – even though the number made me go crazy. I even look up when I go to the doctor's office because I don't want to see the number. But, if you want to know the truth, when I went to the doctor last week, I saw them enter in my weight on the computer. Guess what – I haven't gained a pound. Guess I didn't need that silly old scale after all.

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This post is amazing. I absolutely admire your honesty. It is so hard to give things up that have nearly defined us for so long. I am so proud of you girl.

I weigh myself once a week, any why? I have no idea and yes it does effect my mood. I want to give up negativity towards myself. I want to start treating myself better and not always beating myself up.

Thanks for this post. You made my night.

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The scale really is tough! I am using it right now to make sure I don't gain weight (trying to lose), but even when I'm having a good day it brings me down if I gain. I'm trying to limit myself to once a week, but its so hard! Good for you for keeping away! You are perfect the way you are :)

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I LOVE this post!

I too had to stop weighing myself for a period of time because it was just getting to be an unhealthy obsession. I like to hop on every now and then but I have found that it just leads to me being unhappy. And over what?! I'm healthy and happy and that's all that matters!

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I don't weigh myself that often. I don't own a scale and only really check it when I go to my parents house and it's usually the same weight.
If I happen to go over a certain number that I've dubbed the 'danger zone' then I'll start doing more and it gets right back down.

It doesn't effect my mood at all. I'm to the point where I see it and think, same as always, or ok time to do some extra stuff during the day.

I'm very happy with my weight and have been able to maintain it for 12 years since high school. Praise God!

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Good for you for not giving into the emotional factor of the scale! I very rarely weigh myself. The doctor weighs me once a year, but we don't have a scale. That number isn't important to me in the least. I care about my energy levels and making healthy decisions through fitness and healthy nutrition.

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I used to struggle with eating issues and I always thought how much I weighed mattered so much and defined who I was! It took me a long time to break that mentality, but taking away the scale was definitely a good choice and I did that for quite awhile. Now I do weigh myself 1-2 times a week but its more for training purposes and making sure that I'm putting back in what I'm burning off. Its nice to hear other people have some of the same thoughts!

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You have such a mature perspective on the scale after you had relied on it for years. I still weigh myself several times a week–but I'm trying to figure out nutrition/training/race weight and still, that silly # impacts my mood! I love this challenge you put your readers to–I need to think about this and will post about what I am cutting!!

You are such a beautiful person INSIDE and out.

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What an inspiring post. you are amazing.

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I need to stop thinking bad things about myself. If I'm not comfortable in an outfit then I need to change, not berate myself! I think that is going to be one of my goals for March. Thanks for this post!
-KT80, http://www.traininglikeagirl.blogspot.com

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Good for you!! :) I dislike the scale for the same reasons you do. My Mom didn't allow us to have a scale in the house growing up because she wanted us to focus on eating healthy and getting exercise, not a number. My bf has a scale, but I never let myself use it because I fear that the number would become more important than a healthy diet and exercise.

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the scale can really be evil. i quit weighing myself about 2 years ago regularly, and for a long time, i would only do it like every 3-4 months. it didnt vary drastically, but still brought back amazing or horrendous feelings. i consciously make and effort not to weigh myself much at all; maybe once/month or so. still affects my days, even though my clothes all fit the same, but body does the same, etc.

thank you for this post : ) numbers dont define us!

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I love where you are at! I totally don't use the scale anymore. It did me NO good. It did not help me to even check once a week or once a month. It was not beneficial for me at all. And it sounds like it was not for you either. HOORAY for feeling good in your skin!!

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I've written about this, too! I DO NOT WEIGH MYSELF!! If the # was what I wanted, I'd be afraid to eat in case I'd "get heavier." And if the number was higher than what I wanted, I wouldn't eat because I was so mad at myself for being fat… I let the scale rule my life and it sucked. GOOD FOR YOU!!!

On a side note, the girls at work are ALL doing a weight loss competition and weighing themselves AT THE OFFICE once a week. This totally freaks me out and I don't even want to overhear them talking about it. UGH.

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So glad you're happy!!

I never really cared for the scale. I always see them as being wrong. Every scale seems to give you a different number and I just didn't want to have any of it.

You are one amazing and gorgeous gal! Always an inspirational piece that I would hang above my mantle!

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I go on the scale because my doctor makes me.
Since I lost over 70 lbs she is checking my weight and I HATE it. I get a lecture almost every time. So I avoid the scale at the gym now. when I was in High school i had issues and I would weigh myself 3-4 times a day. then after my kids I got heavier and I would avoid the reality and not want to know how much I weigh. Now it is like that but because I know the number is too low instead of too high..but it is JUST a number now to me. I know I am in better shape and that is what matters to me

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Love your pit.

I don't own a scale. Haven't had a scale in my living space since I lived at home with my parents in high school. oh man, 10 years ago…

But when I have a gym membership, I do pop on the scale occasionally out of curiosity, but not more than once a week. I have used the scale before and after a long treadmill run to determine how much I was sweating out/drinking to plan appropriate water intake for my half marathon.

The number doesn't affect my mood. I would say I paid more attention to the number on the scale before I started running, before I started eating better- when I was casually going to the gym for the elliptical machine. Once I began running longer distances, I stopped caring about weight, probably because I was focusing on other numbers- like distance and pace!

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Yes!! I'm your 100th comment! That has to be a record… well I think it's amazing to get that many comments… it's probably normal for you :)

You are amazeballs… seriously, my idol. You are such an amazing person and inspiration. Thank you for being you and being so honest!

Sending lots of hugs your way <3

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Oh my gosh!!! Thank you SO much for the blog comment–you totally made my day (slash week!!:)!!! I am in love with your blog and it is part of what inspired me to start my own–so thank you!!

It makes me so sad to hear that a beautiful, healthy woman such as yourself has struggled with such negative thoughts. But I love your honesty–it really does prove that, as sad as it is, pretty much ALL of us struggle with loving our bodies and the way we look all the time:/.

I do hate that I can be having a great day/feeling pretty hot but then be surprised by a number on the scale and it can change my whole mood/view. And the negative thoughts/mood only makes me less likely to want to eat healthy/work out. Instead, it's loving myself and feeling good and healthy that makes me want to fulfill my inner athlete!:)

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umm… first of all… loved seeing you today. I was having a seriously crappy day and I almost cried when I saw you. lol. what a baby i am! anywho-you seriously brightened my day!

and LOVED this post. I have a love-hate relationship with my scale. I am jealous of your awesome-sauce elite-runner body. I have always struggled with my weight. and the scale totally effects my mood. and i weigh myself daily. if I don't weigh daily, I tend to get out of control with my eating. I hope to one day be able to get rid of the scale, or at least not let it control my mood as much.

love ya chick! can't wait for our next fro-yo date. :)

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umm… first of all… loved seeing you today. I was having a seriously crappy day and I almost cried when I saw you. lol. what a baby i am! anywho-you seriously brightened my day!

and LOVED this post. I have a love-hate relationship with my scale. I am jealous of your awesome-sauce elite-runner body. I have always struggled with my weight. and the scale totally effects my mood. and i weigh myself daily. if I don't weigh daily, I tend to get out of control with my eating. I hope to one day be able to get rid of the scale, or at least not let it control my mood as much.

love ya chick! can't wait for our next fro-yo date. :)

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Were you in my head today? I weighed myself for the first time in months and was NOT HAPPY with what I saw. According to the scale I am my heaviest I have ever been. Apparently there is a reason I didn't weigh myself for a long time…

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First of all, you're adorable!! I usually weigh myself a few times a week for maintenance but I don't let it define my mood! I totally get how it could get out of control, so it's amazing that you're not letting it define you! :)

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Thanks for the reminder to love ourselves. It can never be said enough!! You are beautiful!!!

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i kicked the scale this summer and haven't stepped on one since. it does me no good and just leaves me feeling foul so why bother? i hate the damned thing and really wish they would just have words instead, like the special k commercial, "you are strong" "You are wonderful" ya know? now that would be an awesome scale.

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The scale is nice to have a general idea of what you weigh, but overall, I don't like it. I think it's better to look at your body and how you're feeling\looking instead of relying on numbers that can be deceiving (like, um…retaining water, anyone??)!

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I love that you quit the scale! I've never owned one and I've had all the same issues… I can't imagine how bad it would have been with numbers to "worry" about! Good for you Janae! Inspirational as always!!

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YAY! that is victory!! i was never one to focus on the scale.. but i still struggle with not liking my body AT ALL.. i dont care about weight its more how i feel. and at th emoment i dont feel so great- but it is true that fueling right and exercising sure helps!

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LOVE THIS POST! You're my hero.

The scale = horrible monster…I was the same way.

I haven't gotten on a scale in MONTHS! Since I started doing P90X I've realized that I feel better…Stronger…And, frankly, I don't CARE what that scale says anymore because I'd rather have a higher number and be strong, than a lower number and be weak, angry, full of self loathing, and HUNGRY!

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You're so great. And so honest. I love it.

I definitely do not weigh myself anymore. To me, there is no point!! If my clothes fit, I'm doing good. If they start getting tight, it's time to start evaluating WHY that is happening. That stupid number on the scale means nothing… and I'm glad we've both figured that out!

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SO PROUD OF YOU GIRLIE!!

I honestly could tell you that I had an obsession with the scale (2-3x) a day. Everything changed when I discovered my husband,kids and running. I discovered what was REALLY important. I weigh myself 1x a week and I also have a pair of jeans that are my indicator jeans that tell me if I had too many ice cream cones for the week!! :)

Great post and your honesty is very appreciated!!

xo :)

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you're so cute :) YAY! I've def tried not to get on the scale either and NOT knowing makes me feel better! love your honesty!

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The only time I weigh myself is when I'm at my parents' house (maybe every few months) when my mom says, "You look so skinny! How much do you weigh now?" Weight is just a number and I run a lot of take care of myself…no need for a scale.

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I used to weigh myself daily but now I don't! I don't even think about it. I can usually tell if I've gone off track a bit but I just like how running makes me feel strong.

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I don't own a scale but I found that anytime I was in someone else's house and there was a scale that was in their bathroom, I felt the need to get on it, not sure why because I don't count calories or anything I think it's pure curiosity. I used to be super skinny in high school and right after and it was difficult for me to gain weight then 5 years ago I turned 25 and I gained 15 pounds in about 8 months (while in a relationship I might add) it was devastating for me to gain so much weight but I'm at a healthy weight now, but I am always looking to tone my stomach, legs, arms, etc…. But I don't know how much I weigh unless I search out a scale because I don't have one at home.

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forget the scale, that armpit shot is pretty sweet!

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definately a victory!!!!!

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I had the same problem with the scale for a long time. I'd be on the stupid thing easily 2-4 times a day. When I got out on my own, I had a no scale rule for myself. I was very hesitant when we finally broke down and got one of those body fat computerized ones a year or so again. I was worried I would go back to my old ways. For a while I would get on every day. Then I realized nothing was really changing so there was no point, and now I rarely get on at all. VICTORY!!

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I have the same feeling about the scale. Congratulations! Your story is so inspiring.

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Janae, you are amazing. An inspiration to the blogosphere and the world outside the internet too. Not only are you a terrific (and prolific) blogger and a super speedy runner, you are the sweetest person with such an excellently healthy outlook on life. We're all so lucky to be your friends. I know my life is better for reading your blog. :)

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Congratulations Janae!! You should be so proud of yourself.. victory!

Growing up, we never had a scale because my mom said it would cause problems. I still don't have a scale but the odd time i'll weight myself when i go to the gym.

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How very funny that I am reading this today because I just, this very morning, flipped off my bathroom scale when it gave me a number higher than what I was hoping for. lol True story.

BUT I'm not obsessing over it. However, it did give me the extra little boost in will power to just say no to the homemade cinnamon rolls that a coworker brought in to work this morning…

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– Its not about the weight or BMI (which is a totally fraud concept, set my insurance companies to claim "people are out of shape"), its about body fat percentage

– I weigh myself everymorning as soon as I wake up

– The scale doesnt really effect my mood, but it effects how I eat that day

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The battery ran out on my scale at home months ago so I haven't weighed myself in a while except at the gym and that scale is older than dirt! It feels good not to really know my weight and just feel good with where I am at with my fitness!

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i just read this post and wanted to say congrats to you on all your accomplishments…especially the scale victory! :) it's awful to have to weigh everyday and look for a magic number!

that being said, i weigh once a week and i have a pair of jeans that never lie…so if my muffin top is starting to look more "muffiny" then i eat some salad instead of bread or noodles.!!! ha!

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Im with you.. I stopped weighing myself frequently awhile ago.. And i liked what you said on your last post about focusing on being an athlete rather than working out to be skinny.. Thats exactly where im at.. Its all about moving weight, being fast and getting better for me now.. not if i have a six pack.. and i actually look better than i ever have and love what i see!

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Yay, that's awesome! It's a good thing to feel good about yourself.

I've never been one to weigh myself…not to say that I haven't before, but if you feel good, who cares what you weigh!

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When I'm running full mileage, I typically weigh myself a few times each week to make sure I'm eating enough! Hydration is easy to measure by the color of pee, so as long as I'm hydrated I try to make sure I'm not losing weight. Every once in a while I notice I'm slipping and then it is time to call in the extra bowl of ice cream!

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1. I refuse to weight myself-even at the doctor.
2. Can we ban clocks too?

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Great post! I hardly ever weigh myself. It's amazing how you just know when you are feeling good and not. I'm taking your advice from another post and going to try to cut out the caffeine. And all this aspartame stuff! I love my one cup of coffee in the am, but I'm just not feeling it lately. Feeling blah! Hoping this will help. You mentioned it made you feel better too!

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The scale is definitely a useful tool for some people gaining and losing weight who need to see if they're overall going in the right direction but it's SO easyt o become obsessed with.

and even using it as a tool (I'm trying to gain a few pounds for health reasons) can be problematic… I had a weigh-in this morning and I gained more than I thought I had and it kind of ruined my morning. :/ trying to turn it around and remind myself that i'm just getting healthier! it's hard though. great post :)
<3
n

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I couldn't relate better to this post. In high school when I was swimming I would weigh myself between 3 and 6 times a day. I wish I could say that that number is an exaggeration but it is not sadly. My life revolved around the scale & negatively beating myself up. Since taking up running I have taken how I look/feel into consideration rather than a number. It was not a healthy lifestyle and I wasted too much time worrying about that darn scale. Great post!

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Dearest Janae- girl, thanks a million for posting this! I appreciate your honesty and ability to share the more personal side of yourself. You made me really look at my scale yesterday and think that I , too, do not need it ever again. I always feel crummy afterwards, and who needs that!? Not me!!! I also think there should be days when we ban a mirror- if only we had to look at our face and realize how beautiful we are from the inside> out. No need to see my hips or legs, because I am just thankful enough that I have the ability to run each day, and to feel that is seriously the best feeling ever. I LOVE your blog- keep it coming!

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I love this post and I love you!! Thanks for sharing your heart!

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I weigh once a week on Mondays.

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I've recently kicked the 1-2 times a day habit as well. It's been so liberating! Well done.

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I recently broke up with my scale (or am in the process of breaking up with my scale) and it feels great. Similar to you, it didn't really matter what number the scale told me, it made me miserable and since I was weighing myself multiple times a day, I spent a lot of time unhappy.

So thanks for re-inspiring me to keep up this up. It is always wonderful to see others making healthy changes in their lives.

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ThankyouThankyouThankyou….

Scales? Not for me. They are for Doctors.
We know…we know that we know that we know our bodies…we know when we feel good..or puffy…or sluggish…why depend on a number?

Even a morbidley obese person should leave the scale up to concerned professionals monitoring their health or if they don't have that once a week weigh ins.

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I probably weigh myself every other day. But it works for me. I think it makes me stress about my weight less. If I didn't have the scale there to tell me I'm not gaining weight, I might overcompensate for eating a roll of Thin Mints. Stuff like that.

Can I cut out work? I think it brings me down.

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I just found your blog a few days ago and LOVE it!!! I can’t stop reading. I was wondering what kind of treadmill you have and do you like it? My husband and I are looking to buy one and I don’t really know anything about them.

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I know that you made this post years ago but I just stumbled across it as I was reading some of your “favorites.” Last year, I lost a lot of weight it all started with a weight loss competition. I got to my healthy range and became a little obsessed with making sure I stayed there. I was weighing myself everyday for a while. (okay many times a day). Then I decided to have “No Weigh May.” (I like to make mantras that rhyme…I’m weird). I haven’t weighed myself since April and it has been great…so now I’m extending it into June. I’m so glad I stumbled across this blog today because last night when I was cleaning my bathroom the scale was tempting me but I did not give in!

Now, I am in MUCH better shape and from all this I discovered I LOVE running. I have done many 5k’s, I’m signed up for my first 10K in a couple weeks and even my first half-marathon in the fall! I decided to stop focusing on my weight and focus on my fitness goals and all the progress I’ve seen there.

Thanks again for your post!

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I, too, just found your blog recently. I’m a runner too. I did my first half marathon in February and am signed up for my second one in December. I also love to cook and eat yummy foods. I’ve always been obsessed with the scale. I feel exactly like you….. I let it determine my mood. I used to weigh multiple times a day.
I started off saying I wasn’t going to weigh for a few days. It has turned into a week, and I’ve never felt better. I’d been struggling with the decision to do tis and read this post a few weeks ago when I found your blog.
Now…..where to put the scale. It’s under my bed and out of my bathroom now so I don’t get tempted!

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