Staying motivated to lose weight is difficult for those of us who struggle with our diet and weight loss. Seems like everyone gets motivated to lose a little weight when January rolls around every year, but the desire to continue past Valentine’s Day turns into a bit of a struggle.
So, here are a few suggestions for staying motivated to lose weight:
Change Up Your Routine
I don’t have a regular routine besides my occasional walking for 30+ minutes a couple times a week. I am looking at staying motivated to lose weight and tone up at the same time. A good place to start is with a good walking routine that may be a little out of the ordinary. Adding some agility drills and some strengthening exercises to your routine break the monotony and help you get in shape quicker.
Work Out With Friends
Encourage someone today and it will not only boost their spirit, but it will boost yours. If you can pass on a compliment to someone about their weight loss efforts your demeanor will change to a more positive state. Just try it and see; it really works.
Exercising with a friend or a group of people can fire up that competitive spirit within, even if you just go to the public park. Human nature teaches us to “fit in” somewhat, so use it in a positive way. Create your own group of regulars you see at the public park, and make some new friends for staying motivated to lose weight. Your almost guaranteed one or two of them will be available. Exercise caution of course.
Keep Your Old Jeans Handy
Do not go out and buy new jeans if you gain a few pounds. Let those favorite jeans be part of the encouragement you need for staying motivated. Try them on to gauge your weight loss and toning efforts. After your efforts begin to pay off, you may need to size down instead of up!
Staying Motivated To Lose Weight With Appropriate Diet
Nothing can drain your enthusiasm like gaining weight from what you thought was an appropriate combination diet. Make sure you stay away from white flour and wheat gluten to give yourself a little push. These can raise your blood sugar and insulin levels. There are some sprouted whole grain products available that really treat the body well. Better carbohydrates, more complex, like fruits and vegetables are also better choices. Limit red meats, and add more fish and poultry.
Most Importantly, Eat More Often
You will keep your metabolism up by eating less, more often. Do not get so hungry before you refuel. If you try to wait too long before you eat, the body goes into starvation mode and holds on to the fat you are hoping to burn. Eat more often so the metabolism boosts the body and more readily burns those unwanted calories.
Treat Yourself Occasionally
Treat yourself with a trip to the spa when you reach a milestone. Enjoy a “cheat eat” day, as I call it, on the weekend, or just reward yourself with something new from the mall.
“Staying motivated to lose weight is bound to be easier once
you see the inevitable results from following this plan.”
If jumping on the scales everyday is discouraging, use the “favorite jeans” approach. Change up your boring routine and make some new friends. Smile more often, and stay motivated.