We cannot deny the
fact that the mind is a powerful thing, but sometimes the mind can
prevent us from reaching our goals. If you tell yourself that losing
weight is unrealistic, then of course your weight loss efforts will
fail. Although there are many things that contribute to weight loss,
a positive attitude is high on the list. Rather than telling yourself
that you cannot lose weight, tell yourself that you will lose weight.
The feelings of failure occurs when people go on crash diets, lose
large amounts of weight, then, in a short span of time, they gain the
weight back. This becomes an unending cycle and, ultimately, they
give up entirely. If you chose a quick fix method, the results will
not last. For best results, you need a lifestyle change that will
make you look better and feel better.
Set
realistic goals
In order to see the
results of your weight loss journey, you must to set goals that you
can achieve. If you set a goal that you are going to lose 20 pounds
in one week, you will feel disappointed and unmotivated at the end of
the week when you are not able to meet the unrealistic goal. Those
who commit to losing five pounds in two weeks and work hard toward
achieving that goal are more likely to reach that goal. People tend
to lose more weight during the initial stages of their diet so
chances are you might even lose more in those two weeks than you
planned, but five pounds in two weeks is a realistic goal. Once you
have achieved your two week goal you will feel so motivated that you
will want to continue to work hard and set new realistic goals.
Get
active the fun way
Today there are so
many options ways to get active that it is hard to pick one. Try a
variety of options; you can choose to hike on the weekend or swim
after work each day. If you are someone who likes to try new things,
find classes in belly dancing, hip hop, Pilates or yoga. Find an
exercise partner like a friend and family member so you can keep each
other motivated. Working out does not have to feel like work; you can
lose weight, tone your body and have fun doing it. You can also make
small changes throughout the day to keep active; walk to the store
instead of drive or take the stairs rather than the elevator. Small
changes can make a big difference.
Eat
foods that are healthy and delicious
Food can be the
major downfall of many dieters; it is hard to think of life without
chocolate, cake, ice cream or potato chips. In order for your diet to
work, it has to be a lifestyle change which means to be thoughtful
with your food choices and portions. You can still have potato chips,
but instead of the oily fried chips, choose the baked chips. A carton
of ice cream can last a few months in the freezer, so you can eat a
proper serving size once or twice a month. As for chocolate, go ahead
and eat it, but portion control is very important. If you want to
treat yourself for reaching your two week goal, have a small piece of
chocolate.
You also need to
incorporate fruits, vegetables and other healthy options into your
diet. Try a delicious vegetable salad instead of a burger or opt for
sunflower seeds, almonds and peanuts if you want a snack between
meals. Drink the required 8 glasses of water each day and remember
that whatever you do, just have fun doing it.