SparkSpotlight: Jillian (JILLIAN48)

By , SparkPeople Blogger
At SparkPeople, we love helping people accomplish big goals—but we believe it's equally important to celebrate the small successes along the way. Each week in the Spark Spotlight, we'll check in with a featured member about his or her proudest moments, biggest challenges and advice for others on living, thinking and feeling healthier. We hope these quick snapshots will help motivate you to keep moving steadily toward your own goals, week by week.
 
This Week's Spotlight: Jillian (JILLIAN48)
Age: 39
Location: Jacksonville, Florida
 
Small Success of the Week
 
Jillian recently discovered that she could fit into a size XL shirt again. She has held on to the shirt for the past eight years and has barely been able to wear it because it has been too tight and uncomfortable. Now when she puts on the shirt, not only does it fit, but it has room to spare!  
 
What's your overall goal?
 
My overall goal is to feel comfortable and healthy again in my body. I want to have more energy, stamina and I want to be a good role model for my son. He is my biggest inspiration.
 
How is SparkPeople helping you get there?
 
SparkPeople keeps me accountable. Good or bad, my choices are all there for me to review and I know where I need to put in the extra work. Even better is the community of people who are all working toward the same goals and have been in the same situation or have overcome obstacles and can give you advice or cheer you on. Their support makes all the difference!
 
What's your biggest challenge right now?
 
My biggest challenge has always been to accept that change doesn't happen overnight and to know that baby steps bring huge results, but I am impatient and want it now (who doesn't?!). It's hard at times to not be frustrated, but I am learning.
 
What advice do you have for someone who just joined SparkPeople today?
 
Post your struggles and achievements, make friends, track everything and have fun with it. I actually look forward to "Sparking" every day. It's become part of my daily ritual!
 
Want to be the next small success we spotlight? Share your successes on the goal feed or in the comments below, and you might be the next person we contact!