It’s easy to start losing weight, but what keeps many people from continuing their progress is staying motivated. It’s great that you were able to lose some weight, but if you don’t find ways to keep the weight off permanently, it won’t be of much benefit to you in the long run. Make sure that you follow these tips to help you stay motivated and achieve your ideal weight in the long term.
1. Plan your weight loss.
Have a set goal in mind when you start losing weight. For example, if you’re a big girl, it’s best to plan on losing 20 to 30 pounds before the wedding. Once you have accomplished that goal, it will be easier to keep going and increase your goals as time goes on.
2. Become an expert.
It’s not enough to just lose weight, you also have to be an expert at what you like to do, otherwise it will be hard to stay motivated. You may need to find other things that interest you besides food and exercise.
3. Change your environment.
When you first start losing weight, it’s best that you do so in a healthy environment rather than at a bar or restaurant with unhealthy food and drinks available. Try changing up your surroundings so that you will change your habits too.
4. Stay focused.
It’s easy to feel like you won’t be able to lose weight after a certain point, so focus on the fact that there is still more progress to be made. It’s common for people who have lost a lot of weight to become discouraged, but you should always stay focused on reaching your goals.
5. Don’t give up too soon.
Don’t get discouraged when you have a weight loss plateau or when it takes a while to lose weight. Once you figure out the right combination of foods and exercises that make you lose the most, it’s easier to stay motivated than if you are constantly trying new things; stick with it until you reach your goal.
6. Don’t compare yourself to other people.
If someone else is losing weight faster than you, don’t stop working out or eating healthy just because they are around. Everyone’s body is different, so what works for one person may not work for you.
7. Create a support group.
If you’re working toward a weight loss goal, it can be helpful to have support from others who know the experience you’re going through. It may also be beneficial if your support network includes people who are on similar health journeys as you.