Stephanie Noche was nominated by her colleague, Rosemary, at VMOC/Pleasanton! Rosemary highlighted Stephanie’s well-being transformation, dedication and how she’s inspired their office with her healthful lifestyle changes.

Stephanie has not only lost about 50 pounds over the past 2 years, but she has formed new habits while changing habits to those that promote well-being! You’ll be inspired by Stephanie’s dedication and sound advice for improving your own well-being.

Read on to learn from Stephanie’s experience: 

Q. Your nomination mentioned you’ve lost 50 pounds over the past few years – congratulations on making such a huge lifestyle change. What tips or recommendations would you share with a colleague looking to make a lifestyle change?

A. Stay consistent and don’t give up. If you feel like giving up or don’t see any results, remember why you’ve started and remember it doesn’t happen overnight. Taking before and after pictures helps, I’m constantly comparing my pictures and it motivates me to keep going. It’s a constant reminder to NEVER go back. Also make sure to do your research on what “diet” or exercises to do because what works for me might not work for you.

Q. How do you stay well while at work?

A. I make sure to meal prep every day and drink LOTS of water, half my body weight in ounces to be exact. I try to stay away from all the “junk food” we have around the office, BUT if I see pizza or ice cream I’ll make an exception!

Q. What are your favorite recipes or sources for healthy living advice??

A. Low carb, high protein with lots of veggies is what I eat on a daily along with my Lean protein shakes from GNC. I LOVE shrimp, I tend to meal prep shrimp since it’s fast and easy to cook!!

Q. Your nomination also mentioned you exercise regularly – what types of activities do you enjoy?

A. I try to go to the gym at least 3-5 days a week. I stopped doing cardio because I’ve hit a plateau  so I started focusing on lifting weights and once I did I started seeing results. Working out my back, legs and glutes are my current favorite type of workouts.

Q. How have you shared your lifestyle change with colleagues?

A. Before starting my journey I was at my heaviest and my blood pressure was HIGH. I was told “Stephanie, you’re a walking stroke.” Hearing that scared me and that was what pushed me to start my healthy lifestyle journey. Seeing my results, I’ve motivated and inspired many of my colleagues to start the journey to a healthier lifestyle.

Q. What brings you joy?

A. My family, friends, food, Disneyland and of course shoes brings me joy, but most importantly…knowing I’ve inspired someone to make a healthier lifestyle brings significant joy to me. 🙂

Stephanie’s experience highlights important aspects of making a lifestyle change: it takes time and dedication, it’s important to connect to your personal “why” and to experiment with the combination of food and physical activity that works for you.  Congratulations on being our Wellness Spotlight Award, Stephanie!