Based on experience, I know just how difficult it can be to shed those unwanted pounds. I also know that shedding the pounds isn't the hardest part. In fact, the hardest part of choosing a healthy lifestyle is staying with it. Sometimes, a small rift in our routine will completely throw us out of the loop. At times, we just get tired of continuing without seeing major results. No matter what it is that's stopping you from sticking with your routine, know that there are ways to prevent yourself from quitting.
Check out these five ways to stick with your weight loss routine.
A lot of times, we'll set huge goals for ourselves. For example, you might say, "My goal is to lose 50 pounds." While that's a fine goal to have, it's not a realistic goal--at least not when you're first starting out. Instead of choosing one main goal, set small goals for yourself. For week one, make it a goal to work out for at least 30 minutes everyday. For week two, make it a goal to eat at least 2-4 servings of fruit and vegetables on a daily basis. Start small.
Does the thought of working out make you cringe? Well, then you're going to need to do something about that. Find out what motivates you. Perhaps it's a musician that just gets your blood pumping (for me, it's Eminem and DMX) and ready to workout. Maybe you prefer working out during a certain part of the day. Find out what it is, and use it to your advantage to lose weight.
While it may seem like the right thing to do, weighing yourself every week can actually discourage you. The pounds don't drop like you expect them to, which can really make you feel like you're fighting a losing battle. Instead of weighing yourself weekly, weigh yourself once per month, and measure inches lost every week. That way, you'll see progress.
Having something to look back on to actually visualize your progress will really help you keep it up. In one month, ten pounds down may not seem like a lot when you look in the mirror, but if you compare before and after photographs, you'll see quite a difference. Keep these pictures next to your work-out area for maximum impact.
Check out these five ways to stick with your weight loss routine.
1. Set small goals.
A lot of times, we'll set huge goals for ourselves. For example, you might say, "My goal is to lose 50 pounds." While that's a fine goal to have, it's not a realistic goal--at least not when you're first starting out. Instead of choosing one main goal, set small goals for yourself. For week one, make it a goal to work out for at least 30 minutes everyday. For week two, make it a goal to eat at least 2-4 servings of fruit and vegetables on a daily basis. Start small.
2. Find out what motivates you.
Does the thought of working out make you cringe? Well, then you're going to need to do something about that. Find out what motivates you. Perhaps it's a musician that just gets your blood pumping (for me, it's Eminem and DMX) and ready to workout. Maybe you prefer working out during a certain part of the day. Find out what it is, and use it to your advantage to lose weight.
3. Keep track of inches lost, not pounds.
While it may seem like the right thing to do, weighing yourself every week can actually discourage you. The pounds don't drop like you expect them to, which can really make you feel like you're fighting a losing battle. Instead of weighing yourself weekly, weigh yourself once per month, and measure inches lost every week. That way, you'll see progress.
4. Take photos every month.
Having something to look back on to actually visualize your progress will really help you keep it up. In one month, ten pounds down may not seem like a lot when you look in the mirror, but if you compare before and after photographs, you'll see quite a difference. Keep these pictures next to your work-out area for maximum impact.
5. Create a "vision" board.
On a piece of poster board, write down what you want out of your routine--and I'm not just talking about a leaner body. Write everything. Do you want a new job? Do you want happiness? Do you want a new wardrobe? Whatever it is, write it down. Cut out photographs from magazines. Color it. Decorate it. Hang this vision board in a prominent spot so that you'll see it every morning. This will help motivate you throughout the day, and will start your day off on a positive note.
Remember, when sticking to a weight loss routine, baby steps are required. You can't jump right in and expect to see results immediately. It takes time, as it is not just a diet and exercise routine, it is a lifestyle change. Keep it up, work hard, and you'll soon be where you want to be.
If you are breastfeeding, see Healthy & Safe Ways to Lose Weight While Breastfeeding Without Losing Your Milk.
If you are breastfeeding, see Healthy & Safe Ways to Lose Weight While Breastfeeding Without Losing Your Milk.
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