Weight loss goals serve as a motivator for those trying to shed pounds. The goals help you identify the changes needed to get the scale moving downward. Effective weight loss goals go beyond your desired weight or clothing size. Specific, personalized goals that keep the total weight loss process in mind are ideal.
Types of Goals
Different types of weight loss goals give you a well-rounded approach to the process. Include both short and long term goals for your weight loss. Start with your desired end result, which might include your desired weight, clothing size or physical achievements. Create short term goals by breaking down the larger goals into smaller chunks. For example, if your end goal is to reach 140 lbs., set several smaller weight goals along the way. One idea for your first goal is to lose 5 percent of your body weight. If you currently weigh 200 lbs., the 5 percent would equal 10 pounds. The 10 lb. goal seems more attainable than the entire 60 lbs. when you are first starting. Include both weight and process goals. For example, write some of your goals around the amount of exercise you get or the food you eat.
Evaluating Needs
Your current habits affect the type of goals you set for yourself. Look at your own areas of weakness as a starting point for goals. If you drink soda on a regular basis, set a goal to stop drinking it completely. If you rarely exercise, create your goals around a gradual increase in activity level. Think about the things you want to achieve and the habits you need to change in order to succeed at weight loss. Write everything that comes to mind and use those ideas to formulate your concrete weight loss goals.
Break Goals Down
Once you have your goals set, you need to figure out how to get there. A goal of exercising five times a week could be achieved by waking up 30 minutes earlier, writing exercise into your schedule or laying out your exercise clothing the night before. Start initially with exercising three days a week and work up to your final goal o five days a week. Create a timeline for reaching each goal as an additional motivator. The deadline also helps you assess your progress.
Tips
Regularly reviewing your progress toward the weight loss goals keeps you on track. Check in weekly to determine if you are getting closer to your goals. The review keeps you motivated and reminds you of your efforts toward losing weight. If you find the goals are too difficult to reach, adjust them to make the goals more realistic for you personally. Goals that are too difficult to reach leave you frustrated and may cause you to give up your efforts.
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