Every time you resolve to lose weight, the world becomes a minefield of tasty and delicious foods, and people and events that undermine your determination to slim down. Staying motivated to reach your goals becomes a challenge. According to Ohio State University psychology professor, Steven Reiss, different people are motivated in different ways for various reasons. To get motivated and stay inspired, find a weight loss strategy that suits your personality.
The Systematic Approach
If your motto is "plan your work, then work your plan," a systematic approach to weight loss may keep you motivated. One pound of body fat equals 3,500 calories. According to the Bell Institute of Health and Nutrition, to lose one pound weekly you need a 500 calorie daily deficit. Walking two extra miles daily and cutting out your afternoon caramel macchiato will get you there. If you have 10 pounds to lose, get out your calendar and count out 10 weeks. Plan a reward when you reach your goal, like a massage or a new pair of jeans.
The Get-'er-Done Approach
If long-range planning is not your strong suit, and you hate to wait for anything, a quick-and-dirty approach may be your best motivational strategy. While not recommended by most health-care or fitness professionals, a low calorie diet that results in rapid weight loss may be easier than the long, slow burn. If you choose this route, beware that the weight will go back on just as quickly as it came off unless you make some lifestyle changes like improved nutrition and regular exercise. Reward your success with sexy workout clothes and a gym membership.
The Zen Approach
If you are into the mind-body connection and believe in manifesting change through visualization, "be" the weight loss. See yourself as the thin person you aspire to be. Behave as if you have already arrived. Shop for smaller-sized clothing, eat and exercise like a thin person. Affirm your thinness each day as you look in the mirror. Reward yourself with a yoga retreat when you reach your goal.
The Friends and Familly Plan
If you are a people-pleaser and always follow through on your commitments, making yourself accountable to others may keep you motivated to lose weight. Get your friends and family in on your weight loss program. Ask them to keep you accountable for nutrition and exercise. Celebrate with them when you lose a pound and seek their support when you don't. Reward yourself and your entourage by buying everyone a pedicure when you reach your goal.
Look Out for Pot Holes
The pot holes in your weight loss plan are the things that are likely to trip you up. If you know you can't sit in a Mexican restaurant without downing a bowl of chips and a jumbo margarita, don't agree to meet friends there. If you know you eat more when you are tired or stressed, make sure you get enough sleep and avoid stressful people and situations. Anticipating the potholes will help you side-step them and keep you motivated to reach your goals.
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