Convenience foods and a hectic lifestyle can make your skin appear dull and lifeless. Similarly, crash diets and repeated attempts to lose weight can leave your motivation sagging. Give your attitude a makeover by expelling negative self-talk, opening yourself up to change and visualizing the new you. An article published online by "Shape" magazine suggests as an example hanging up a piece of clothing you wish to wear when you reach your goal weight.
Step 1
Throw out a self-deprecating inner monologue. When you speak disparagingly about your current weight, you are more likely to overeat and less likely to exercise. So, adopt a "fake it till you make it" mindset to boost your motivation before you see a single change on the scale.
When you look in the mirror, tell yourself something positive and true about your appearance, such as, "Wow, you have gorgeous eyes." Also, tell yourself something that you want to become true, such as, "Look at that toned stomach. You look great!" The technique may sound silly, but according to a July 2010 article published on the Scientific American website, positive beliefs may change behavior and yield greater results.
Step 2
Envision yourself at your goal weight. How will your life change? What will you do differently when you are thinner? Will you have more confidence to pursue additional goals?
Visualizing a slimmer version of your body has enormous motivation potential. Why? As the new vision of a healthier, more active and thinner you replaces your current perception, you'll be more inclined to make healthier choices.
Step 3
Set a realistic time frame for losing weight. Sometimes even the most intense motivation washes away after the scale reveals lackluster results. Plan to lose one to two pounds a week with diet and exercise.
If you are significantly overweight, you might see faster results if you make drastic changes, such as eliminating soda or fast food consumption, but plan for a slower, steadier path to weight loss.
Step 4
Find ways to reward yourself with things other than food, such as new workout clothing, time spent with a friend, a round of golf or something else you enjoy. Dieting and weight loss involve significant life changes that can deplete your resolve. Treating yourself to something other than food nurtures yourself and shores up waning motivation.
Step 5
Consider the potential negative outcomes of losing weight. Some people--women especially--worry about the sexual attention they might receive if they were not overweight. Other concerns include the fear of not being able to enjoy eating, the problem of needing a new wardrobe and that friends may be jealous of weight loss success. Identify these concerns and address each one individually to remove these nasty motivation saboteurs.
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