Given our age and gender differences, fasting maybe easier for me, however I’d like to give my two cents and hope to motivate you.
Ask yourself why you call it a failure. You’re only 42, you could fast the rest of your weight off by the end of December if you wanted, in the grand scheme of things this is a hiccup.
Ask yourself what is really preventing you from hopping back on the bandwagon. Is it the stressor you mentioned?
The great thing about fasting is it’s simplicity. Are you not fasting because you’re stressed about something? Is food a drug for you ? (It is for me)
Two options:
Look a lot a wider eating window than you were on before.
Consider your food choices and think about where those could be letting you down. Comfort foods are often high in sugar, nutritionally empty, highly processed… Replace those with home cooking where possible.
Perhaps look into therapy to address your issues. Give yourself a voice and confront these things. You might be suggested some coping mechanisms.
Our struggles can look small on the surface but can be complex and deep rooted. I hope you can find a way through this that allows you to be happier and healthier, as I know you want to be.
Too many people get side tracked by life and see a decline in their eating behavior. Modern life is simply too stressful, you can alleviate stress by seeking therapy or spending more time walking outside, yoga, or meditation. You should put your mental health above all else. Also, if it helps to look at it in a different light go ahead. Don’t view fasting as a fix or a quick loss. Incorporate it into your routine. Try different methods of fasting or simply view it as a lifestyle. You have every right to be angry at yourself and every right to feel upset, but that won’t accomplish much. Be more consistent. Set up a calendar or track your progress (some people find it easier to stay on a diet if they see the changes.)
Most of all remember that you owe it yourself, your body and health. You deserve to be fit and active because that’s how we are naturally. Find what matters to you and stay with it. Is your health worth the comfort eating? Is it worth your looks?