My wellness journey didn’t start with a dramatic moment in the gym or a perfectly planned routine. It started with a quiet but powerful realization: I was tired of giving up on myself.

At the same time, I was beginning a new job with the City and wanted to make a full 360-degree change in my life, physically, mentally, and emotionally. I didn’t want another restart that faded out after a few weeks. I wanted something sustainable. Something that would last.

Where It All Began

At the start of the year, the first thing I did was schedule a doctor’s appointment. The earliest availability wasn’t until April, so instead of waiting around, I decided to take advantage of the City’s Rock Care employee gym from January through April.

When April arrived, the results were a wake-up call. I was diagnosed with pre-diabetes, high cholesterol, and weighed 197 pounds — a high amount for someone who is 5-foot-2. At 27 years old, I knew I was too young to be facing these health issues, and I was exhausted by the cycle of starting strong, giving up, and starting all over again.

My doctor referred me to the ARC Wellness Program, but the next available appointment wasn’t until October, six months away. Waiting felt like giving up and I had already done enough of that. I knew I had to start immediately.

Before COVID, movement was a huge part of my life. I ran half marathons, biked regularly, and stayed active. During COVID, I lost not only my routine but also my passion for movement. I gained significant weight and began taking antidepressants from 2021-22, which also contributed to that gain. From 2021-24, I slowly lost sight of the version of my former self.

When I stepped into my new role in December 2024, imposter syndrome hit hard, and it affected me psychologically. I shared this with my doctor, and we decided to restart antidepressants. Due to pharmacy issues, I ended up switching medications and that change made a difference. Once my mental health stabilized, I felt a clarity I hadn’t experienced in years.

Another huge motivator was knowing I’m getting married in November 2026. I wanted to feel good, look good, and fully enjoy my wedding day. I wanted to be able to dance all night and celebrate with my new husband without worrying about my health or stamina.

Progress, Not Perfection

When I started, my goal was to lose 80 pounds in one year. I had seen others do it online and assumed I could too.

That mindset quickly changed.

Instead of chasing fast results, I shifted my focus to building habits I could maintain long-term – habits that didn’t require me to quit and restart. So far, I’ve lost 40 pounds, reversed the pre-diabetes, am one point away from a healthy LDL, and while I still have another 40 pounds to lose to reach a healthy weight for my height, I’m proud of how far I’ve come.

For the first time, I’m not rushing the process. I’m excited and genuinely excited to see what this year will bring as I continue my journey for 2026.

Consistency Over Perfection

Some days, motivation is low. On those days, I tell myself, “It’s just 30 minutes.” I go to the gym first thing in the morning before anything else can derail me.

On harder mental health days, I choose kindness over guilt and would reach out to a friend to walk from Old Settlers Park to Summer Moon for coffee, eat a nutritious meal, or simply rest without spiraling into self-criticism.

Meal prepping removes decision fatigue, and I’ve found comfort in having reliable go-to meals. I also discovered that I thrive on challenges such as races, fitness goals, and programs like the 75 Hard challenge (which I’ve attempted three times and hope to finally complete in 2026).

When I slip up by skipping workouts, eating out, or sleeping in, I don’t quit. That has been the biggest difference this time. Whenever I go to restaurants, I look up the menu to ensure my meal fits within my caloric deficit and remind myself that one off day doesn’t undo months of effort.

The real win is that I don’t give up anymore.

Finding Movement I Actually Enjoy

I started with strength training and gradually built up over time. I fell in love with it and wished I had discovered it earlier in my running years. It would have made running easier and more enjoyable.

I’ve also rediscovered my love for running, even though it remains my least favorite and most favorite exercise at the same time. When I need variety, I turn to walking, the elliptical, jump rope, swimming, or Pilates. Pilates challenges muscles I didn’t even know I had and helped improve my flexibility and strength.

The biggest lesson? Movement doesn’t have to be perfect; it just needs to happen.

Nutrition Without Quit Mentality

Nutrition used to be one of my biggest struggles. I had worked with a dietitian before, but discipline was hard to maintain.

This time, I approached it differently. I used ChatGPT to factor in my height, weight, and pre-diabetes diagnosis and learned how to maintain a caloric deficit while prioritizing protein, fiber and hydration. Nothing felt off-limits, and most importantly, I didn’t feel the urge to quit.

I can still enjoy the foods I love, just in a way that supports my goals.

Making It Work with Real Life

Balancing work, workouts, wedding planning, orchestra rehearsals, and personal life isn’t easy, but planning makes it possible.

Every Sunday, I plan meals, workouts and commitments for the week using Google Calendar reminders, a physical planner and a desk calendar. Planning helps me stay consistent even when life gets busy.

Using Our City’s Wellness Resources

Access to local wellness resources has made a huge difference. My favorite spots include Old Settlers Park – specifically the hike and bike trail at Rabb Pavilion – for walking, jogging, running, and using the tennis courts. My fiancé and I also enjoy racquetball date nights at the Clay Madsen Recreation Center.

I also try to participate in City-sponsored wellness programs whenever possible and appreciate coworkers who share wellness tips and encouragement.

For anyone just starting, my advice is simple: start small. Walk for 30 minutes. If the weather isn’t great, stop by the Rock Care employee gym, hop on a machine, and just move. Try different activities until you find one you enjoy and then stick with it.

What This Journey Has Taught Me

Beyond the physical changes, the most rewarding part of this journey is knowing that I don’t quit myself anymore. Even on my hardest days, I show up in some way.

My confidence has grown, my imposter syndrome has faded, my sleep has improved, and my energy is better than it’s been in years.

One Piece of Advice

Be kind to yourself.

This journey is uncomfortable, and you will do things you’re not used to doing. That’s where grace comes in. Whether you’re 28, 55, or 74, it’s never too late to work on yourself.

Time is going to pass anyway. The difference is choosing not to give up and being excited about what comes next.

Claudia Cuellar is a library assistant at the Round Rock Public Library.