Why would you like to lose weight? Is it because you want to look good for a special day? Perhaps you have a family event or class reunion to attend this year; the reasons could be many.
However, rather than losing weight for a single day event, you may have more luck losing weight when you have a permanent reason to lose weight.
Having a particular event to look forward to is a good starting point when you decide to lose weight, but it won't be enough to help you keep the weight off after that day has ended.
Before starting on your weight loss venture, think of a way to motivate yourself to keep the weight loss going. You can't find a better motivation for losing weight than to get healthy and feel energized. This is especially true if you have health concerns that are complicated because of your weight.
Here are some action steps you can take to help you meet your weight loss goals:
1. When you have your permanent reason for wanting to lose weight, you can create a successful plan to get you to your goal. Include in your plan:
Specific, measurable goals that are also reasonable and attainable for you
A time frame
Steps you can take each day to achieve your goals
2. Get a mentor. Your chances of succeeding will be greater if you have the help of a friend or weight loss mentor that will keep you on track.
3. Choose foods that are as close to nature as possible. These will have the best nutrients and the least artificial ingredients.
4. Find a sport or activity you can enjoy that will get you moving. You don't have to spend hours and hours in a gym, unless that's what you choose to do. Another option is to invest a little money in home gym equipment. I would recommend using the TRX Suspension Trainer. It is inexpensive and provides a great workout even if you have limited space where you live.
An increase in the amount or intensity of exercise by as little as twenty minutes a day can do wonders to help you reach your weight loss goals.
5. Set small, attainable goals. While your ultimate goal may be to lose 50 pounds, you won't be able to reach that goal in a short period of time. Set smaller goals such as five or ten pounds in two months.
Experts recommend losing no more than two pounds a week, so it would be feasible to lose at least five pounds in a month.
6. Celebrate when you've reached smaller goals. Just don't celebrate with food. Choose rewards you'll enjoy and that will keep you motivated to achieve your next reward.
Have smaller rewards for smaller amounts of weight and then larger rewards when you've reached a major milestone such as 25 pounds.
7. Be patient. Remember that you didn't gain the weight overnight. You can't be expected to lose it quickly, either. Your best course of action is consistency. Keep on track and the weight will come off and stay off.
Make sure you choose to lose weight for a permanent reason rather than for an upcoming event or any other reason. Follow these tips, stick with it, and enjoy your new, healthy body.
