Weight Loss Motivation: 4 Rules for Success
Making any kind of lifestyle change requires motivation but weight loss motivation, in particular, can be very challenging. There are a number of rules, however, that can simplify this process and help guarantee success. Let’s look at four of them now.
Keeping track — You must be aware of your personal numbers if you intend to be successful in your weight loss efforts. Knowing your weight is essential but don’t be obsessive over this. Jumping on the scale once is week is more than enough.
It is also important that you know your measurements. Be as precise as possible and record the measurements for your upper arms, hips, chest, waist, and thighs. Repeat this process every 2-4 weeks and compare your results. A loss of even a fraction of an inch is something to celebrate!
Keeping a log — The next rule we’re going to discuss may be the most important one of all. Keep a journal! Recording your personal numbers as well as the food you eat and the activity your perform will have a huge payoff.
This journal is essential to your lifestyle change in many ways. It is the perfect spot for you to keep track of the emotional aspect of weight loss. What are you feeling when you have the urge to overeat? Is there a behavior you could substitute for eating that would satisfy that need?
Researching — The third most important rule for losing weight involves research. You must educate yourself so that you have the tools you need to maintain your results. Learn what foods the USDA Food Pyramid recommends. Train yourself to recognize proper portion sizes. Read articles on weight-related topics.
Your journal is an excellent spot for you to record the information that you learn. To experience continued motivation, you’ll want to review this data often, until it becomes second nature.
Know your outcome — Finally, weight loss motivation requires you to have a vision. You must be able to “see” yourself the way you’d like to be. Spend a little time each day meditating or reflecting on how you would like to reinvent yourself.
Visualize the smallest details. This is not about saying, “I want to lose 20 pounds.” This is about visualizing the journey to that goal. What will it take to get there?
So there you have it… four of the rules for sustaining your motivation. By following these simple guidelines, you’ll dramatically increase your chances of experiencing a successful weight loss journey!
About the Author:
Gail M. Davis writes about your motivation for weight loss and other health topics. Kurt Schmitt has a self help resource on inspiration .