If you're trying to lose weight, getting and staying motivated is a vital part of your journey. While everyone is motivated by different things, there are several steps you can take to combat boredom, overcome obstacles and stick to your diet and exercise plan even when you're feeling less than thrilled with the idea of another day on the path to long-term weight loss.
Goal-Setting
Set short-term and long-term goals for weight loss. While this seems like an obvious step, it's one many people neglect -- and doing so can severely impact your motivation. Having an ultimate goal weight is an important part of the goal-setting process but don't neglect the smaller milestones along the way. Reaching small goals, such as losing 5 lbs. or even just not gaining weight for a week, can help you stay motivated. Write your goals down and put them in places you'll see them every day, such as on the refrigerator or in your purse or wallet. Next to each small goal, decide on a small, non-food reward for yourself. Include small indulgences you wouldn't normally buy yourself, such as a pedicure or a new computer game.
Positive Thinking
Challenging negative thoughts can help give you a much-needed motivation boost when you're feeling down. It's easy to beat yourself up when you miss reaching a short-term goal in the time frame you set or when the scale seems stuck. Keep your thoughts positive by focusing on what you have accomplished and continuing to monitor your progress. Instead of focusing on how you're tired or don't want to exercise, work out while watching a favorite television show or tell yourself you're only going to exercise for 10 or 15 minutes -- you'll probably find it easier to keep going once you start, though mulling over the thought of spending 30 or 45 minutes on the treadmill initially may seem too daunting. Keep reminders of the positive effects of your weight-loss program in plain sight to keep your thoughts upbeat. Try taping a picture of you at a lighter weight on your bathroom mirror or purchasing an outfit a couple of sizes smaller to hang on the front of your closet door.
Support
Support from friends, family members and co-workers goes a long way in keeping you motivated. Telling people close to you about your weight-loss plan and goals helps keep you accountable and may encourage you to get your daily workout in when you'd rather be couch surfing. Find an exercise partner, visit online weight-loss message boards and chat rooms or enroll in an exercise class for encouragement when you feel like slacking.
Variation
Adding variation to your diet and exercise routine helps keep you motivated by preventing boredom, which often ultimately leads to falling off the weight-loss wagon. Try new fresh fruits and vegetables weekly or purchase new spices to add flavor to low-calorie dishes. Make a list of different exercise routines and places to workout to give you something new to look forward to when you start feeling like your current routine is too mundane.
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