Featured before and after story: T’Ericka lost 50 pounds and found her true self. After struggling with weight loss and low self esteem since childhood, she was able to make lifestyle changes that are about more than just losing pounds. Here is what she shared with us about her weight loss journey: “Many people have been asking and inboxing me about my weight loss and the question that stood out to me most was ‘Why I did it and what motivated me to stay on track?’. So, here is my story: Growing up I’ve always been the chunky girl. I LOVED to eat (I still do lol) but then I didnt know how bad it was until I started started getting teased EVERYDAY for my weight. Tt bothered me but I always kept it in. I turned 12 and I was into modeling so my mom took me to a nearby agency, only to hear from the lady that I was very pretty but too big to be a model for her. That crushed me and from that point on I had the lowest self esteem. I ate myself into being unhealthy. I used to ask God to make me skinny (lol) so that people could like me (smh). In school I always wanted to do different things but instead I put myself in the background because I thought everyone would be judging me on my weight. I really disliked who I was!! I always thought the world only welcomed skinny people!! Then I got older and wanted to make changes so I lost weight the fast way. Then I started dating my guy and gained it all back, which put me in my lowest self esteem EVER!! (I tried not to show it but I truly gave up on myself) I didn’t go out much. I didn’t take some opportunities because I was really in a BATTLE with myself! I was unhealthy physically and mentally! However, last year I had enough. I wanted to be at my full potential. I wanted to start a journey that would be a lifestyle change for me. It wasn’t just about losing weight, it was also about gaining who I knew God wanted me to be! I ate better and really started getting my business together. I go to the gym 4-5 times a week for an hour. I do cardio (40 mins) and weight training(20 mins)! I’ve added lots of fruits and green vegetables to my plate and cut out a lot of red meat (I eat red meat occasionally). I rarely go to fast food restaurants because that once was my weakness! Im just really enjoying this lifestyle change. I feel great! I wanted to be the best T’Ericka Tifany-Joy Mullen There was!! I WANTED THIS FOR ME!!! That’s why this 50 pound weight loss means so much to me! It makes me feel accomplished! I feel like I graduated from who I was and walked across the stage to who I always knew I had the potential of being!! I not only burned away some pounds but I burned my past hurts, my low self esteem, etc. I am still a work in progress but I refuse to go back to who I was physically and MENTALLY. This Journey wasn’t just about weight loss it was about gaining me back!! God Bless!
Stephanie says
You have no idea how much I needed to hear this, this morning…Very inspirational! Thank u for sharing Congrats on your graduation to the New You 😀
Mattinique Allen says
I have to say your story really is INCREDIBLE….that’s so important….losing the old view of yourself….Amazing!!!!! Alot of women (myself included lol) deal with having low self esteem because of weight, then doing harsh or quick fad diets to lose only to gain it all back. Thank you for sharing. You are an INCREDIBLE example of how changing your mindset plays a huge role in having a HEALTHY lifestyle. I dont even know you but I love you for sharing your story. (It was just for me lol!!)
Merlene says
T’Ericka you are a great and beautiful granddaughter with and without the weight.
You always had a wonderful personality and a good person. You have done a wonderful job
On your own and with the help of God.
Tonya and Eric Mullen says
Tee you are the most beautiful young lady inside and out any parent would love to have. We are soooo proud of your accomplishment. You are our motivation. Like we always tell you, keep God first and you will always succeed in what you put your mind to do.
Luv Mom and Dad
Eric Mullen (Dad) says
Of course my daughter you have always been a beautiful young lady. I am very proud of your entrepreneurial creativity and endeavor, however I am most proud today of your willingness to be so open and candid about this part of your journey. You have always demonstrated a sincere care and consideration for others and this is only a greater expression of your kind personality. I have always encouraged you concerning your God-given talent and purpose in life. There is greatness within you. This is only the beginning discovery of the great treasure that lies within you. Your mother and I are very proud of the young woman my little girl has grown to become and continues to be. Love you very very much- Dad
mironda Ray says
congrats on your successful life change continue to push towards the goal you would like to reach
Vikki Allen says
Congratulations Tee.I always said my Pastor has some beautiful grandchildren. Although you are much younger than I am you are an inspiration to me.I too deal with low self esteem.To be insired by a young adult is truly a blessing. Keep doing what you do for you don’t know who you aer encouraging. Love Vikki
shaunesa prater says
Thank you for those words of wisdom. I am a young mother who now has 5 kids and I gained so much weight after my 4th child and just kept it then gained 10 more with my last. I always tried to lose weight but found excuses all the time but I thank you because now I know I can do it but I must say I will need help.