Would You Watch Me Lose 40 Pounds?
I’ve got a confession to make.
I am fat.
That’s not P-H-A-T as in “cool”.
That’s F-A-T as in chunky, large, and overweight.
On top of that, I am not physically fit.
It’s no surprise.
As an online entrepreneur who spends a lot of time in front of a computer, I’ve become sedentary.
It’s a fairly common story.
Once upon a time I was both slim AND physically fit.
In fact, you might be surprised to discover that I ran a marathon when I was a teenager. I completed a 26.2 mile run in Montreal in the late seventies.
In college, I stayed fit by doing aerobics.
But then it happened.
I got married. We had children. Life got busy.
And I put on weight.
In 2003, I got sick of being overweight. I peaked out around 215 pounds and thought it was time to do something.
Long story short. I got myself down to 180 pounds. I was feeling good.
And then I went on a Caribbean cruise. That did me in.
Since that time, I have ballooned up to 225 pounds.
Yikes!
I have been on medication for high blood pressure for a number of years.
And I get winded walking up several flights of stairs.
It’s time for a change.
After all, I’ve got the rest of my life ahead of me.
I want to be healthy for my family, for my business and for the work I have yet to do.
The bottom line is I need to lose about 40 pounds to get where I want to be.
And why exactly am I telling you this?
I’m not a fitness expert. I don’t aspire to be.
I’m not a nutrition expert. I like to eat foods that taste good and are bad for me.
But what I am is a regular guy who has the same struggles that many of you do.
My goals as an author and speaker have always been to inspire, to educate and to entertain.
I believe you must first inspire people in order to open their hearts so they can receive what you have to say.
Then you must deliver valuable content that can be put into use by anyone listening or reading.
And it helps if it goes down with a spoonful of sugar. This is especially present when I am on stage as I like to clown around.
Anyhow, as I have been thinking about the next step in my journey and realizing that taking care of myself must play an integral role, I have had an idea.
What if I made my quest for better health a public exercise?
I am considering using the web, video and social media to hold myself accountable to do what I need to do.
By broadcasting regular videos to you, I could accomplish a few things…
1) I would be “putting myself out there.” It’s one thing to make a commitment to myself. It’s another to know that many others are watching to see what happens.
2) My quest could be an inspiration to others with similar needs. That would fulfill the first goal of my professional career.
3) I could use this platform for others to learn alongside me. By interviewing experts and discussing the issues that revolve around better health, I would fulfill my second professional goal to be a source of valuable information. Topics would include everything from cravings for sugar and how to eat out, to setting goals and choosing the right exercise regimen.
4) I could encourage those who follow to help me in supporting a worthwhile cause along the way. That would fulfill my goal to “do good stuff.”
5) Finally, I think it would be entertaining and a lot of fun. How many New York Times Best-selling authors and international speakers do you know that would put themselves out there like this? Yes, it’s scary. But I see so many positive things happening as a result. I am almost feeling compelled to do it.
So there you have it. That’s the gist of what I am considering.
Here’s the question for you.
Would you be interested in watching me go through this process?
Would it be inspirational for you to follow along?
Do you want to talk about the issues surrounding health in today’s world?
Or could you care less what I do?
As I said, I am not trying to portray myself as a health expert of any kind.
I just know I need to make a change.
And I am going to make that change.
The question is do I want to invite everyone into the process.
If I do invite you in, who knows… it may change you as well.
What are your thoughts?
As always, I am eager to hear your comments.
Thousands of people read my blog and emails each day, but only a small percentage actually interact and leave comments.
Would you please take the time to share your thoughts with me today?
This would be a major step for me and I really need to hear from you.
Note: PLEASE do not use comments to pitch me on the latest diet fad or network marketing program. I am not looking for advice at this time, or another business to get into. I will not approve comments with links to MLM programs and such. Thanks for respecting this request.
With that said, let’s hear from you!
Good for you, Joel! The first step is to resolve to take action and then get started.
As you already are well aware, there is a lot of good information about health and fitness on the web, and there’s also a lot of crap.
If you follow people like Dr. Al Sears for fitness advice, Dr Joe Mercola and Dr. Mark Hyman for nutrition advice you’ll be on solid ground.
I’d love to hear about your progress and victories in your quest to find the fit Joel within.
Best of luck in your journey!
Ron Matthews
Go for it Joel! You’re a public figure now, and weight loss is a constant topic of interest, hence the multi-billion dollar weight loss industry in this country.
Um, while you’re at it, could you lose a few pounds for me too?
Thanks!
Joel-
I am in the internet marketing field as well. And I feel your pain. I was in the same boat. I ballooned up to 220lbs. I just completed a round of P90X and dropped over 40lbs and I am in the best shape of my life!
I would love to help you in this process, and have become a “coach” for P90X. Its all free – I am just there to help you through the program and help you with the nutrition end of it. (Trust me – questions DO pop up)
If you are REALLY serious about getting back in shape – I would LOVE to help – I have a very strong passion for helping people get healthy.
Let’s talk! You have my email!
Jayson
To be honest, I have been bouncing at around 200-190 pounds myself and lately I am feeling really bad about it.
My main problem is that I am too lazy to go to the super market and prepare something, so I end up eating junk every day.
I would be really interested to hear what you have in mind.
I was thinking maybe to create a blog of daily or weekly self portraits with weight info to keep me on track.
Joel, for real I want to lose at least 40 pounds too I was at 226 earlier and then I started drinking soup every day, playing soccer twice a week and then I hit 209 after about 2 weeks. Then I went out a couple of beers and BOOM 213.2 as of last night.
I am now vowing to lose at least 40 pounds – I will work with you following your exact model EVERYDAY (trust me no incentive needed), but how do we do this – IM lost will it be Jenny Craig or something like that.
If you can come up with a list of things to do every week I will follow it while you do too.
Way to go! This is the toughest life altering vision I have seen. Go Jo!
Great idea Joel! Becoming healthy and fit is the most important thing you can do for yourself and your family. Now is the best time – it gets more difficult the older you are!
The sedentary lifestyle of so many Americans has contributed greatly to our epidemic of obesity, and I blame a lot of this on the computer as well as fast food.
Well Joel… it happens to the best of us. I too was way too fat for way too long after sitting at a computer for about 13 years… not in one go obviously!
Long and short of it is, that I was diagnosed a Diabetic in May this year which placed a whole new focus on my health.
I know you didn’t want to be pitched the latest diet fad so here’s how I lost 3 stone in 3 months…
Eat less.
Eat the right things.
Do at least 1/2 hour of strong exercise every day… and I mean every day without fail.
Look forward to the vid’s
Good Luck, Cheers, Steve
Do it bro! I’ll follow you as we’re in the same boat…
Ian del Carmen
Go for it! I am trying to lose 40 pounds myself. Men lose different than women, so give some suggestions for women also. Also ideas for older (60)+ people who are trying to get or stay in shape. Thanks and good luck.
I need to lose 30 pounds on my 5’2″ frame. I would love to follow along with you.
Go for it. Better to do it know cuz it just gets harder as you get older. Theres nothing worse than being over weight and trying to do stuff with the kids and family. Plus you need to be the inspiratiion for the family because the old saying holds true. With out you health all the money in the world doesn’t matter. Ok , you could get people to do your work but you get the drift.
Check out transformations web site with Bill Phillips who was from your neck of the woods in Golden,Co. Best of Luck
Joel,
To be honest, you should do this first and foremost for YOU regardless of what others think, although what you said about making yourself accountable is spot on! I think you should do this and hope that it inspires others as you go.
It is important for people in the public eye to take on challenges like this especially when what you teach and motivate people to do encourages them to sit on their backsides all day ; )
Like you, I used to be super fit (skydiving, football, running, cycling etc) but then after I had worked online for around 4 years, I “suddenly” noticed that I had put on 3 stone (20kg or 44lbs) and I felt it. I couldn’t walk downstairs without holding onto the bannisters and running was a no-no…I had pains everywhere.
I signed up for a charity event (Enduro Africa) late 2008 which required 10 days off road moto-x over 1000 miles of rough terrain in South Africa and had a year to get in shape.
I made myself accountable like you suggest and went for it. I lost all the weight in less than 6 months and I am now (2 years later) still doing it and I am fitter than when I was in my “peak” in my 20’s (I am now 43)…I even have a 6 pack…woohoo!
All the time I trained I was still able to eat pizza’s, curry, Chinese food and all my favourites in moderation. I won’t mention any programs but seriously urge you to look into it properly as doing the wrong thing can make things worse (although I know you are an intelligent guy and know that already)!
Anyway, I look forward to watching you progress as I am sure most people would want to see you do this so good luck with it!
Nick
Call it ‘the biggest internet loser’ and weigh in and everything! I’d watch 😛
sean
Joel, I was a little disappointed by your article. Your email sent out Sept 7th stated: “Click below to read the entire article and find out what I am thinking of doing!”. By doing, I naturally assumed you are speaking about your weight issue. However the article above listed nothing of what you will be “doing” instead focused on the problem and if you will include others in your journey. While there are a lot of programs out there, I enjoy reading what works for individuals and how others incorporate changing their life style into something more healthy and inspiring. I will be interested in reading (if you choose to post) your health care choices. All the best, Phil
I applaud your decision Joel. I’m in the same boat (in spades). I’m tipping the scales at a bit over 300 lbs these days. Needless to say I’ll be following your progress closely and listening for whatever tips you have that are working for you.
Continue doing good stuff 🙂
You can do it! I think this is a great idea for you! As someone who works from home too, one of the biggest challenges I find is making fitness a lifestyle and not just a chore. I love fitness and working out but it’s not always easy for me either. But it’s so necessary in our lives. When we leave this earth, we take NOTHING with us so we might as well take care of the “temple” God gave us! I wish the best of luck in your fitness endeavours now and for the future. 🙂
Hi Joel:
What a brave thing to do! As you say, most people wouldn’t advertise that they were going to lose weight. it’s putting it out there and that’s great. I hope you choose something you can adhere to as a life change (diet does have the word die in it). When you slow down and enjoy every bite consciously, it’s amazing that you don’t need to finish your plate and can stop when you’ve had enough. Obviously exercise is part of the bundle and also scary (at least for me).
So I wish you the very best
Sandra
Whether you decide to make your journey public or not, I’m totally proud of you for stepping up to the plate and taking care of your #1 business asset… you and your health.
I would love to hear how your new healthy habits and change in lifestyle impact your business and how your improved health, fitness, and energy allow you to enjoy your business successes even more.
I just saw pictures of Tom Beal’s recent transformation and love to hear how great he feels after making his healthy lifestyle change.
Health and weight gain is a real issue for us Internet Marketers. We put in a lot of butt time, there’s no doubt about that. It’s easy to becoming completely focused on business and put health and fitness on the back burner until your product launch is over or your get a few projects out of the way. Before you know it you are looking at a different person in the mirror.
I became an Internet Entrepreneur in large part for the freedom and happiness. But if I sacrifice my health and gain a significant amount of weight in the process, there is a certain amount of freedom that I am robbing from myself.
I’m really looking forward not only to your personal transformation, but how your lead will impact others in the process. Thanks for becoming a positive role model Joel.
Scott Tousignant
Joel –
I think this is an EXCELLENT thing to do – and I’d like to support you in any way that I can. Making your goals public – or telling others about them – is an important step in success! I have another friend who did this, although he struggled with using the Internet/Social Media successfully. I helped with his (Ultimate Fitness Quest) project and wrote a lot of the nutrition & fitness resources for it, and served on his panel of experts. I don’t know if you’ll remember me but I did a testimonial for you at Loral’s Alumni Event in 2009 – and I have learned a LOT from you through your Elevate DVD’s. I’ve got “Ka-ching” en route from Amazon – and I already have one of the buttons (the one from the Alumni you left behind).
If you’ll contact me I’d be happy to make any/all of those resources available to you as well, and I can help you by providing you with a customized nutrition plan and exercise recommendations. I’d be happy to work with any other experts you might put on your team.
I am well qualified in this area as both a certified Nutrition & Corporate Wellness Coach, and I have a Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology …
Please let me know how/if I can help you – I’d LOVE to be a part of your project and I am certain you can turn your health around – as I did. A few years ago my health, weight, etc. was out of control – and I turned my health and appearance around a few years ago while in my late 40’s …
To get a Nutrition Plan (not anything crazy – this is all based on science and totally safe and doable – not a “diet” but an educational tool to teach you to eat correctly for the results you want for LIFE!)
Contact me if I can help – [email protected] 🙂 It would be an honor!
Hi Joel-
My hat is off to you as you have taken the first step, recognizing the problem and setting a goal. Having people help hold you accountable is also going to be important to your success.
I did just that in February of 2008. I set out to go from 265 to 195 by Christmas of 2008. I actually made it by the end of October 2008.
The good news is that although I have gone up and down a bit since, I have maintained my weight goal overall.
I’d like to monitor your progress, so do keep me posted. If you are interested, and only if you are interested, I posted a link to the steps I took. Although the site is ad supported (Hah! Haven’t earned a dime) the site is not selling anything. I’ve just chronicled the steps I took.
Best regards,
Jerry
Wow, Joel, I had the same idea…! In fact, except for your name and the “Best-Selling authors” part, I could have written the same blog post. I lost about 50 pounds 20 years ago and kept it off for a dozen years. But then life changes and busy-ness slowly took their toll and I regained all that weight. It’s not an easy thing to do and I feel that it’s probably going to be harder at this age, as my activity level is not what it used to be. But nothing’s impossible unless you say it is! So I hope you endeavor on your quest, and I’ll consider going along with you. To your success in ALL you do!
Joel
Good Luck and yes I will follow. At 210, I need to lose 30 lbs so let us know what and how you are doing it.
Hi Joel
Why don’t you call up your buddy Dan Nickerson and do the program he was supposed to do. I talked to Dan a couple times and I do not know if he ever finished.
Thanks
Brad
Absolutely! There’s every reason for you to start losing that 40 pounds NOW!
Hi Joel,
Your idea is an interesting one. At first I had thoughts like, that’s honest, brave, refreshing and then, something bigger hit me. You have effectively created your own regime, a world not governed by regular employment, a wealthy lifestyle where you can, in theory, live the dream of doing whatever you want, whenever you want. So, how come it isn’t easier to take an hour here and there for the basic stuff – a run and a walk? I think this is an issue that should bother a lot of us.
I work from home, I write a lot, spend too much time in front of the keyboard and I have more time now than ever. But, I don’t use it wisely. I am not disciplined to make time as, frankly, my day drifts all to easily. That has to be a problem for us ‘internet people’ wouldn’t you say?
So, whereas all the social media of what your doing is, as I’ve said, honest and perhaps brave – I would think that part of the message has to be a warning to all of us who sit on a certain part of our anatomy for too long each day to – get off it! Prevention rather than a very public (in your case) cure?
Just a thought. Good luck to you!
Ben
Support you.
First of all, just start a little steps. Doing exercise, swimming, gym whatever.
Looking forward to seeing your progress.
Good luck.
Go for it Joel!
Whatever you do, DON’T DIET! Eat good stuff and start getting some proper exercise – but make changes that you know you can turn into proper lifestyle changes,, rather than short-term fixes. This is my personal soapbox – I’ve even written a free ebook called “Big Fat Lies” about the inequities of the diet and weight loss industry and how people get conned into wasting time and money on ridiculous diet programs. Good luck and keep us posted!
Mike Barrows
Joel, I’m a certified personal trainer who is trying to learn the ropes of internet marketing. In the past I’ve helped hundreds lose weight and feel better. Yes…you should definitely do it! But, you have to do it, more for you than anyone else, bringing everyone else on the ride is a great way to hold yourself accountable and hopefully inspire others as well. Being a public figure, it’s great that you can inspire and a be role model for others to follow. So, when you put yourself out there and become vulnerable enough to share with those following you…you become real! Wishing you the best and believing you can do it! If I can help you…don’t hesitate to contact me.
Burt
Hey Joel,
I commend you for this and I feel inspired to follow along and start my own challenge but it won’t be public, don’t have the guts 🙁
I know what the sedentary lifestyle of working in front of a computer brings. Since working at home I gained 15 lbs and I aim to loose it in the next two months (tough with the upcoming holidays but I plan on it).
Anyway I think that you SHOULD make it public as you will definitely inspire more than just a few to improve their lifestyles as well.
– Crystal
Hi Joel,
Now that’s an honest post. It’s a great idea to put yourself out there
and make the commitment. You will see it will change your life and
in fact I think when you wrote the post you already felt so much better.
Further it’s just simple if you ask me; vary up your meals
every day, lots of nice salades and a glass of wine once or twice per week.
Don’t do anything strange or heavy programs..
I once saw an interview with the great Mick Jagger. He eats light, lots
of water and did some exercises for 15 minutes. Each day. Never, never
skip a day. That’s the secret.
Make it simple for yourself in that way you’re good to go..
Good luck!
Stefan
Joel, there’s only several million of us in the same predicament. Of course it would be inspirational to watch and learn with you as you get healthier! I am one week into the same decision and down 6.5 lb with the first thing that’s actually worked well for me after trying just about everything else.
I agree that having a public audience would probably help you stick with it AND let us everyone else see that it’s not a straight path. There’s going to be bad days, setbacks, plateaus etc. That’s how it works.
Good for you for taking the bull by the horns, cuz your family and friends want to have you around for a long time to come, Lord willing.
Becki
Hi Joel,
I definitely think you should make this public. Once you do, there’s no turning back!
I am not sure the condition your wife is in, or how she’s planning to support your goal, but as a woman, I would love it if she was part of this too. It’s going to make you stronger as a couple and assure family members won’t sabotage your efforts (oh yeah, include the kids too).
Whatever you decide. I know you can do it, and I support you,
Biggi
Joel
I think it is a great idea. There is already all the information ever needed in order to lose weight and maintain a healthy fit lifestyle.
The missing ingredient for most people is motivation, momentum and ACCOUNTABILITY!
Once you start you will have no choice but to keep everybody updated and thus we will be feeding you inspiration.
Best wishes!
Hi Joel,
I’m a guy who is in the same boat as you. I’d like to drop 40 pounds for the sake of myself and my family. Any pointers or tips that you may discover along the way would be helpful to hear. I would encourage you to give this a try and keep me posted along the way.
Thanks,
Jim
Joel,
I like this.
I am in need of doing something myself. I fall into the category of, “I’ll start Monday” or “when I get back from this trip, then I will start.”
As a professional firefighter, I already have enough risk to deal with. Did you know that the #1 cause of firefighter deaths, on the fire ground, is from heart attacks? We put tons of stress on our hearts when you go from sleeping to going into a fire, but being unfit does play a role.
I have a young family that I simply cannot imagine not being around for them.
I saw a report on the news that said people who enroll in weight loss programs that are “online” are more successful. The aspect of accountability and teamwork all pull together with your group of online work out buddies and people feel almost obligated to not let the team down.
My suggestion is a forum or website with the Joel Comm Fitness Challenge Team, or whoever. Weekly progress reports, pictures, tips, help, encouragement, teamwork.
Together, the group will achieve its goals.
Far as wide open or limited number, thats your call. If you do it, I want to be the first to sign up!
Your right it has happened to me also, doing ten thousand steps a day now that’s about thirty steps a minute or 110 minutes of movement and drinking water every time I feel hungry. And eating sensible smaller potions.
Taking all of the fun out of life like, food, slouching, watching TV, drinking beer, resting etc.
Watch you……..mmmmm, Lets not take this to far, probaby enjoy listening to you suffering, grunt, groan. I was thinking of using those dark eye covers you see these actresses put over their eyes to go to sleep.
I’m hating every delightful moment of it, even walking in the rain.
I do a straight 30 minutes in the morning and do six twelve minutes walks on the 48th minute of every for six hours so I’m not stting to long.
How exciting! They say that we all need a witness to our lives, and this is just a bold and rather inspirational way to conquer a GOAL. Joel, I think this serves as great motivation, not only for you, but for all of us who are now witnesses to this challenge!
Most of us work extremely hard in one or two areas of our lives, but tend to put little effort in the health and fitness area. Why? Because it’s hard. It’s hard to be in shape. It’s hard to live a balanced life. Yet, sooner or later we realize that we must put more effort in this area if we want to continue improving on other areas. If we don’t have good health or we just don’t feel good about ourselves, we will not be inspired to work hard at achieving a great life!
Joel,this goes for you and everyone reading your blog… you may have as many witnesses to your life as you wish, but the most important witness is YOURSELF!
GOOD FOR YOU, Joel!
When you achieve the weight and level of fitness you desire (remember those days when you could run a marathon!), every part of your life will feel better–even if marathon running is no longer a goal.
About five years ago my wife decided she had to lose weight. I agreed to go along with her (though I only needed to lose about 1/3 as much), and since I do almost all the cooking in the family (I work at home, and she worked long hours in a lab), I learned and re-learned a lot about making really delicious meals that also went along with the exercise and activities that helped get us to lower weights. She lost 35 lbs, I lost 10, and we’ve kept it level for over 3 years now–and EVERY DAY I’m so glad we did it.
I predict that you’ll be glad too! BEST OF LUCK!
Just about 4 days ago my wife pointed at me and said “You are not taking good care of my body” ouch. So today I went walking/jogging.
Let’s see you do it!
Joel,
Have you thought about putting a treadmill under your desk an slowly walking throughout the day?
Joe,
I’m in the same boat- my story is very similar to yours.I was lean and fit and after the marriage and sedentary way of life I put on 30 kg!! In 2001 I lost 36 and it was very motivational for bunch of my friends , too. But, Mr Yo- Yo didn’t miss me- I did it again (balooned up to 75 kg). I’m with you and yes, it would be very inspirational for me to follow along!Let’s do it!
Warmest regards,
Nitta
Gutsy move, Joel.
You go guy!
To your health!
I’d be interested watching you go through the process. I need to go through it myself.
Kudos to you!
Taking care of your health is not only an investment in yourself, it’s an investment in your future and in your family’s future. And the great part is, you already know you’re going to look fantastic and feel better than you ever have in your life! It’s also a great example to set for your kids. Think of the impact you will make touching not only the lives of those who follow your blog posts but your family as well. HUGE!
I just got back from a week-long fitness retreat in Colorado and I know about all the opportunities that you have to stay fit and active outdoors. No gym required!
So proud of your intention and I’m looking forward to hearing about your successes! Way to go, Joel! Let me know if I can help you.
Angie Jones
Relatability.
Hey Joel,
I like your idea.
To use snippets from your post.
=> I believe you must first inspire people in order to open their hearts so they can receive what you have to say.
I was working on my first blog post and my girlfriend commented that I was an engineer – someone “like them” not a Tony Robbins etc and hence they could relate and be inspired by my story. I don’t have a weight issue and can pretty well eat what I want with minimal exercise but any challenge is cross contextual and so as I wrestle with my challenges so to can I relate to you with yours.
=> Then you must deliver valuable content that can be put into use by anyone listening or reading.
Well, you know more about this than I do.
=> And it helps if it goes down with a spoonful of sugar. This is especially present when I am on stage as I like to clown around.
You do and you “sold” me. I met you at Wealth Master 09 in Newport Beach and bought your product because I believed and trusted you.
But…
I want the ugly stuff as well. The you know what, I really screwed this week up… If you had a really crap day / week be honest, blunt and real. And then your victories from that place as well.
Relatability.
Lastly have you got a lever strong enough to hold you account? I.e. I don’t know if they allow wifi when you’re on life support…
Thank you for who you are and what you have taught me.
Paul.
Way to go! This is the toughest life altering vision I have seen. Go Jo!
Joel,
Go ahead, do it!! If people tell you that they don’t care whether you share your experience or not (which by the way I think they will care), that shouldn’t matter to you. You should only care about your health, because you owe it to yourself and to your family. Then again, when you do something good, people will follow and will get inspired. So, do it!! You will see great things come out of it.
Go for 180!!
Ciao,
Jorge R.
Joel
I need to lose more than you … when are you starting ? Would love to follow along and lose 40 lbs … “Misery Loves Company”
Let me Know
Robert
Great idea Joel… I have thought the same thing about sharing via blogs etc.
Also – this is Healthy Aging month – so your timing is perfect.
I am creating an event around this in Northern Colorado – likewise to help others etc so please contact me if you would like to participate.
Thanks
Jay Jacoby