When I look at these two pictures, I see so much more than 50 pounds lost. There is a tremendous gain in my self confidence, as evidenced by my body language.
On the left, I'm making myself smaller by crossing my legs and arms (look at the hand wringing! I was so uncomfortable getting that picture taken) and pulling my head into my neck. On the right, I automatically step into a "power pose" stance for my casual selfie, with my crazy post-barre hair and all.
So many things in my life have gotten better as I've improved my health and lost an 8 year-old worth of weight. Of course exercise is easier and more fun when I'm not wheezing and can actually bend my body. I love the way I feel when I eat good, whole foods. But the confidence has got to be the best thing I've gained for myself.