Keen traveller who shied from sharing holiday photos finally finds confidence after shedding 3st

Olivia, 23, slimmed from a size 16 to a size 10/12 after shedding three stone
-Credit: (Image: Slimming World)


With memories of travels tainted by a negative perception of her body, Olivia Paxton decided to make a change.

From afar, the keen traveller may have appeared to live an idyllic lifestyle exploring the world. But deep down, young Olivia would dread seeing the photos that were captured on her holidays.

Olivia, from Houghton-le-Spring, said: "My weight wasn't just a physical burden due to feeling consistently drained; it weighed heavily on my confidence and overall wellbeing. All of which had a significant impact on my social life and my relationships."

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"For years, I battled with my mind and its perception of my self-image but also the distinct lack of motivation to do anything about it. I'd set myself goals of cutting out chocolate, going on a diet or attending the gym numerous times a month but nothing ever took off", she added.

In January 2024, Olivia decided that she'd had enough of her confidence and wellbeing being impacted by the way she viewed her body. She wanted to be able to wear shorts and feel comfortable while on holiday. So, in a bid for change she joined a local Slimming World group.

Olivia Paxton shed three stone after battling with her self-image
Olivia Paxton shed three stone after battling with her self-image -Credit:Slimming World

Olivia said: "I knew I needed to make a change, I didn't want to continue looking the way I did especially not on holiday. Shorts or revealing clothes were a no go and the thought of sitting in the car for hours driving round Europe made me feel ill as I knew how uncomfortable I was going to be."

Now she's more than happy to share her travel snaps and selfies after shedding 3st and gaining a new confidence. "Losing 3st has completely transformed my life", said Olivia, who has slimmed from a size 16 to a size 10/12.

She added: "Reaching my milestone of losing three stone is nothing short of life changing. Not only do I feel lighter physically, but my energy levels have increased, and my self-esteem has improved dramatically. As someone who was diagnosed with Joint Hypermobility Syndrome from a young age, I experience pain daily however I'd never thought about how excess weight on my joints would exacerbate this - until I lost it!

"Everyday tasks have become easier, and I've gone from barely moving to walking 13 mile in one day. Most importantly, I was able to go on an amazing holiday where we covered 2,500 miles across seven countries and 11 cities in just 2 weeks. I even wore the shorts that had been making me nervous, and guess what? I felt great in them.

"The trip was incredible, filled with lifelong memories shared with my partner Matty, and our two adorable dachshunds Cody and Albi. We explored so much, laughed often, and soaked up every moment together. It was a journey I'll never forget, and I'm so proud that I could fully enjoy it, feeling confident and happy in my own skin."

Since joining Sliiming World, Olivia says she is more "mindful" about the food she eats and choices she makes. Olivia said she still enjoys the things she loves, such as a bar of chocolate after dinner or unwinding with a gin after a long week, and still makes room for a takeaway with friends.

Olivia Paxton shed three stone after battling with her self-image
Olivia Paxton shed three stone after battling with her self-image -Credit:Slimming World

Olivia said: "Instead of mindlessly snacking on biscuits and chocolate throughout the day, I now enjoy two substantial and healthy meals that leave me feeling so much fuller. I've moved away from relying on takeaways for lunch or tea, and by planning my meals two weeks in advance, I can shop smarter and make healthier choices. Spaghetti bolognese and chili pasta bake will always be my favourite go-to meals, but I've learned that not every delicious dish requires hours of cooking.

She added: "Quick and easy meals are always within reach, especially with the Slimming World range in Iceland. I make sure to keep a selection of these on hand for those days when I’m in a rush or need something quick for lunch. It’s comforting to know that I can enjoy healthy, satisfying meals without spending all day in the kitchen as truthfully, it's one of my worst nightmares!"

Olivia Paxton shed three stone after battling with her self-image
Olivia Paxton shed three stone after battling with her self-image -Credit:Slimming World

In January 2024 Olivia joined a Slimming World group in Fencehouses after a leaflet from the local Consultant Louise dropped through her door. Olivia said she wasn't sure what to expect or how successful she would be, but she knew something had to change.

She said: "I remember feeling a bit nervous going along that first day, but I was blown away by the welcome and reassurance I felt from Louise and the members in the group. I left that night ready to give it a go and I had an amazing start, losing 6 pounds in my first week and to be honest I've never really looked back since."

Olivia's transformation has now given her the confidence and passion to embark on a whole new journey as a Slimming World Consultant. Her group runs every Tuesday at 5:30pm or 7:00pm at Newbottle Working Men’s Club (DH4 4EP).

Olivia Paxton shed three stone after battling with her self-image
Olivia Paxton shed three stone after battling with her self-image -Credit:Slimming World

She said: "Slimming World has helped me go from feeling defeated by my weight to becoming a healthier, happier version of myself. I really want to pay that forward and inspire others to take the first step toward their own transformation.

"As a Slimming World consultant, I now have the privilege of helping others embark on their own weight-loss journeys. I know firsthand how daunting it can be to start, having felt sick at the thought of walking through the door, but I also know the incredible rewards that come with sticking to the plan. My personal success is proof that Slimming World works, and I'm passionate about guiding others to achieve the same results."