4 Rules for Maintaining Your Weight Loss Motivation

Making any kind of lifestyle change requires motivation but weight loss motivation, in particular, can be very challenging. There are a number of rules, however, that can simplify this process and help guarantee success. Let’s look at four of them now.

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.

Take your measurements. Measure your chest, waist, hips, thighs, and upper arms and be precise when reading the tape measure. Do this every two weeks and compare your results. A decrease of even a quarter of an inch can make a huge difference in your ability to gauge your success.

Keep a journal — The next rule for weight loss motivation, and perhaps the most important one, is to keep a journal. Record your weight, your measurements, when and what you eat, and your daily activity.

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.

Start recording interesting weight loss, exercise, and dieting facts in your journal to keep them accessible. Reading a new twist on something you already know can be very motivating.

Know your outcome — Finally, weight loss motivation requires you to have a vision. You must be able to “see” yourself the way you’d like to be. Spend a little time each day meditating or reflecting on how you would like to reinvent yourself.

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?

If you follow these four simple rules your motivation will remain high throughout your journey. You will have a system in place to fall back on when you feel weak. You will notice and celebrate your small successes and understand that they accumulate into a huge payoff!