Making sense of slimming

Are you ready to make a change in your life but need to find your weight loss motivation? These four simple rules will help you maintain your desire for change. They will provide a framework for success that will carry you throughout your weight loss journey.

Know the numbers — The first rule for weight loss is to know your numbers.  Step on the scale, but not constantly, and not even daily; once a week is sufficient.

Use a simple tape measure and note the measurements of your upper arms, thighs, hips, waist, and chest. Be as accurate as possible with this. To maintain your weight loss motivation, you’ll want to celebrate even the smallest decrease in size.

Keeping a log — The next rule we’re going to discuss may be the most important one of all. Keep a journal!  Recording your personal numbers as well as the food you eat and the activity your perform will have a huge payoff.

Your journal serves another very important purpose.  It is the perfect spot for you to record your thoughts and feelings throughout your weight loss journey. It will also help keep you on track by helping you see patterns in your behavior and in your choices.

Knowledge is power — The third rule we’re going to discuss is to be a good student! What does that mean? Do your research! In order to lose pounds and maintain that weight loss, you must have an understanding of the USDA Food Pyramid Guidelines. You must also be able to judge recommended portion sizes. So, explore the Internet for suitable websites and read diet-related literature.

When you do your research, you’ll come across many interesting facts that you’ll want to keep. Your journal is the perfect spot for you to have them easily accessible. You’ll be surprised at how much your weight loss motivation is boosted when you read a new perspective on old information.

Envision the future — The final rule that we’re going to share with you now is that you must have a vision. You probably already have a weight loss goal in mind, but your motivation and ultimate success depend on much more than that! You must regularly visualize the process.

This meditation or reflection must be about the details. Your ultimate weight loss goal of losing 50 pounds isn’t a part of this. This is about visualizing the process!  What will you need to do on a daily basis to reach your goal?

So there you have it… four of the rules for sustaining your motivation. By following these simple guidelines, you’ll dramatically increase your chances of experiencing a successful weight loss journey!