When you’re trying to lose weight and be a healthier version of yourself, the scale can be a real jerk. For so many people the scale fools them into thinking that it’s the be all end all of your weight loss journey.

Recently a friend reached out to me because she was dealing with her scale being a jerk and I remembered a time when I let those numbers dictate my success (or failure) in losing weight. I’ve been trying to lose those last fifteen “baby weight” pounds for more than a decade now and I’ve decided that my love of food and hatered of exercise are a big factor. More on that another time though.

Don’t get me wrong, the scale has a place in the big picture, it’s an important tool, but it’s NOT the big picture…It’s just a little tree.

I weigh myself almost everyday but I’ve learned not to let the numbers get me down.

The numbers the scale shows me everyday are a guide to what’s going on and I use them to help keep me accountable. The morning after I eat like crap, the scale shows me. It helps me to say, “Ok, you had one day of eating like you’re about to be executed, it’s not a good idea to do that again today.”

Another thing to consider when looking at those sometimes depressing numbers, have you started a new workout routine? Muscle weighs more than fat, so as you replace your fat with muscule you might see an uptick on the scale. Also when working out, your muscles hold on to fluid to help repair and grow.

Have a salty meal? Maybe that number on the scale is reflecting some extra water weight that needs to be flushed out.

So if the scale can be a real jerk, how do you know if your weight loss efforts are paying off?

Simple, how do you feel?

Do you have more energy? Do your pants fit a little better? Is your shirt not hugging you where it used to? Look at your face, has it thinned out a little?

Those are the true measure of your efforts, not some number your scale spits out at you. Use if for what it is, one of many ways to keep you accountable to yourself. Look at your numbers over the course of weeks and months, not days.

Just because the scale can be a real jerk doesn’t mean you should let it derail your efforts. You got this!

Disclaimer: I was given a three day trial of Herbalife free of charge for the purpose of this review. Of course, as always, all the opinions are my own.

Before Starting my three day challenge, Kelsey sent me lots of great materials that talked about what I could expect during the challenge, the benefits of Herbalife and a plan to follow for my three days. I made sure I went through everything carefully so I was ready to follow the challenge to the letter. I wanted not only to have the best results possible but have the best information to share with you.

I can do anything for three days so on a Monday I decided it was time to jump in.

The Experience:

My first shake I mixed in a shaker bottle for breakfast. I did not enjoy it that way, it wasn’t smooth enough for my liking. Of course maybe my shaker bottle isn’t as efficient as others so you might have better luck.

After my breakfast shake I felt full, like stuffed full. That was a pleasant surprise because some of shakes I’ve tried have left me wanting more. My breakfast shake held me all the way until lunch. It was funny though, I was feeling full, then like I flipped a switch, I was hungry.

For my lunch shake I made it in the blender with a handful of ice and it was amazing. If you have the ability to make these shakes in the blender, I say go that way.

Late afternoon I had myself a protein rich snack followed a few hours later with a smart dinner full of veggies. I was a little nervous because when bedtime hits is when I find myself wanting a snack. The thought of eating dinner at around five and then not eating again until breakfast was frightening.

I was fine though. I had a small snack from the list of foods Kelsey sent me and I went to bed happy.

Days two and three followed the same format and all went fairly smooth.

I wish they included more of a variety in the trial so I could get an idea what flavors I’d like to buy should I continue on the program.

For me, this three day challenge felt a lot like a cleanse. I was peeing more than usual and I generally drink at least a gallon of water a day anyway, so I’m no stranger to the bathroom. The liquid wasn’t the only thing going through me, if you catch my drift.

What you’ll see in your 3 day challenge kit.

My Coach:

Kelsey was great! She texted daily to check in and see how I was doing. If I let her know that I was struggling, she was ready with a tip or words of encouragement.

I wasn’t taking this challenge alone, Kelsey was there to help me through and make sure I go the most out of it. From before the start through the entire process to the follow up, she was there for whatever I needed. Kelsey is a weight loss rock star!

You can buy this three day challenge online but what you can’t buy is the individualized attention you get from your coach and if you’re going to have a coach, you should make it Kelsey.

The Results:

I dropped 4.4 pounds during my three day challenge. In addition the the weight, I also lost an inch off my waist and hips. I was pleased with these results to say the least.

I found that the three day challenge was an excellent jump start for me and helped bust through the plateau I’ve been sitting on for far too long. At the end of my challenge I was seeing a number on the scale that I haven’t seen in a LONG time and I couldn’t help but smile.

In the weeks since my challenge I’ve continued to lose weight and inches and I can feel my clothes starting to fit better.

What’s Next?:

I’m still sitting on the fence as to whether or not to continue with Herbalife. I’m sure that my coach, Kelsey can come up with a plan for me that would work with my lifestyle, the challenge was a bit too aggressive for me to do for more than a few days at a time. I only want to replace one meal with a shake but during the challenge I replaced two.

The biggest thing holding me back is the expense. Herbalife is an investment and to be honest I’m not sure if I can part with the money at this point when it’s needed so many other places.

Final Thoughts:

If you’re looking to try something new to shed those pounds, I would recommend reaching out to Kelsey and giving Herbalife a try. Made the right way, the shakes are tasty and they do keep you feeling full.

Even if you’re not sure if Herbalife is for you I’d encourage you to learn more about the product and options offered to see if there is something that meets your needs to help you meet your goals.

Kelsey has been kind enough to offer all Mommyland readers $5 off their first order, just mention this blog when you email her to redeem the offer. If you order online, use coupon code MOMMYLAND for your $5 discount.  For more questions, CLICK HERE to email Kelsey.

Disclaimer Part 2: **People who use Herbalife Formula 1, twice a day as part of a healthy lifestyle, can generally expect to lose around half a pound to 1 pound per week**