Losing weight definitely can feel impossible at times. You start off feeling extremely pumped about your weight loss goals, but after a few weeks, this excitement wears off. Once this happens, the tendency is to quit. How are people able to keep the weight off? How do these people lose weight so successfully? What is the trick?
Your first major step towards weight loss is to know what success looks like. Specifically, what are your goals, and how will you know you have reached them? What results would you like to see from your weight loss? Do you want to drop a size or two? Is there a certain number you would like to see when you step onto a scale? Is a healthy body your goal?
Make sure to track your weight loss progress weekly. Use a diary or log to track your weight loss progress each week. In another section of the same book, keep a journal of the food that you are eating. By jotting down your food intake on a daily basis, you are more likely to stick with the program because you are holding yourself responsible. You won’t want it as much once you have written it down and you see it in black and white.
Do not let yourself get too hungry, or you may find yourself choosing unhealthy food. To avoid this problem, make sure you bring healthy and satisfying food with you wherever you may go, just in case. Instead of eating at a diner or restaurant, you can eat healthier by bringing your lunch to school or work. When you bring your lunch, you have complete control over your calorie consumption. Additionally, you will avoid the temptations you might face in a restaurant. Given that this option generally costs far less than eating out, it may be that you notice the benefits in your wallet as well as on your scale.
The secret to successful, lasting weight loss is a combination of nutritious eating habits coupled with a good exercise program. You must exercise a minimum of three days each week, but more is even better! If you cannot commit to exercising, then pick an activity that you can stick with for the long term. Try to get your friends involved by asking them to walk with you. Short hikes on a nature trail or even just a walk through the neighborhood park can satisfy your thirst for the great outdoors and get you some exercise! Try going to a dance class to learn new ways to work out.
Get rid of junk food from anywhere you spend a significant amount of time, including work. The simple fact is you cannot eat something that is not there. Make the places where you typically spend time healthy food zones. It is good to keep healthy foods like fresh fruit, bite-size vegetables, and a package of your favorite seeds or nuts on hand for when you need to snack.
Make use of your friends’ help. Having many supportive people around will motivate you to keep going when you feel like quitting. Make sure there are people that you can talk to when you’re worn out or having a hard time. These people will assist you in the weight loss process.