Little Bariatric Wins

The other day, I walked past the office candy jar. I saw my favorite one sitting right at the top, taunting me, like it always does. But this time, I didn’t take it. I smiled, kept walking, and went back to my desk. It was such a small moment that no one else would’ve noticed… but to me, it was huge.

Because after bariatric surgery, these tiny, seemingly insignificant decisions? They’re the real victories.

When I think back to life before surgery, moments like that candy jar weren’t even moments, they were automatic. I’d grab a piece without thinking. Sometimes two. I didn’t stop to consider whether I was actually hungry or just bored, emotional, or stressed.

Now, each small decision I make feels like a powerful shift in direction. It's not about never having candy again, it’s about knowing I don’t need it just because it's there. It’s choosing what aligns with my goals and how I want to feel.

That choice? That’s freedom.

Here’s what I’ve learned: big transformation isn’t built on giant, dramatic moments. It’s built on the accumulation of small wins over time.

• Saying no to the candy jar.

• Drinking water w/ electrolytes when I want soda.

• Putting the fork down between bites.

• Logging my meals before I eat them.

• Taking a walk even when I don’t feel like it.

These moments don’t get applause. No one throws a party. But they matter because they’re evidence that my mindset is changing. And once your mindset shifts, your whole life starts to follow.

It’s easy to only celebrate the “big” milestones like reaching your goal weight, hitting a fitness PR, or fitting into a certain size. But what about the quiet victories? The behind-the-scenes discipline? The times we choose ourselves over old habits?

Those are the wins that build confidence, consistency, and character.

And when you string together enough small wins, they become your new normal.

The next time you walk past the candy jar, say no to seconds, or lace up your shoes for a walk instead of scrolling your phone, celebrate that. Because that is what change looks like. It’s not flashy, but it’s powerful.

So here’s to the small wins, the ones that stack up and change everything.

You’re doing better than you think.

Love you,

B