I think it’s safe to say that we all know that a large percentage of the population in the developed world struggle with weight loss. In the United States that number is a staggering 73.6%!!!!*
When planning to lose weight, you can easily find weight loss resources on the internet, gym tailored routines, and fitness programs tailored to fit various lifestyles.
The information is out there yet so many don’t ever use it…. Why? Because they aren’t motivated to!
The main reason why people feel demotivated is because there are factors working against them.
This includes the presence of triggers around your environment that make it difficult for you to do what is necessary to lose weight.
This will then require more effort from you to figure out how you can overcome the situation you are in.
What makes matters worse is that taking certain approaches, such as setting unrealistic goals, can further drain your motivation.
Even though starting and sticking to a weight loss program can seem impossible, it can still be done with the right mindset.
Here are a few tips on how you can motivate yourself to lose weight:
Accept You Are Not Motivated Enough
Most people are in denial.
The first step that you can take to be motivated is accepting that you are not motivated.
After coming to terms with this, it will become much easier to take the required steps to move forward.
Find out the cause of your demotivation even if you are enrolled in a fitness program and why you are not excited about your weight loss journey.
Some of the most common causes of demotivation include lack of energy or sleep, information overload and fear of failure.
Hold On To The Reason Why You Want To Lose Weight
It is essential to determine why you want to lose weight.
Maybe you want to feel more comfortable in your clothes, reverse a prediabetes diagnosis, or attract more women/men.
Whatever the goal is, hold on to it. Write it down and post it somewhere where you can see it each and every day.
Comments from your friend on why you should lose weight may not work because people don’t like being told what to do.
However, when the weight loss goal comes from within, you are more likely to stay committed and, in the end, get positive results.
Set Realistic Goals
Nothing kills a weight loss journey faster than having an unrealistic goal (for example expecting to lose 20lbs in 2 weeks)
Weight loss is a marathon, and overnight weight loss programs are not recommended.
Therefore, you should plan to lose the extra pounds slowly.
This method is not only healthier than rapid weight loss procedures, but you are also more likely to maintain your ideal weight rather than quickly putting it back on after a sudden drop.
You can start by setting a goal to lose 1 or 2 pounds in a week or getting a certain body fat percentage by a certain date.
Setting unattainable goals will drain your motivation.
On the other hand, realistic and manageable goals will give you a boost that will help you achieve your goals.
Keep A Weight Loss Journal
Self-monitoring is essential to weight loss motivation.
Researchers have found out that those who track what they eat are more likely to lose weight or maintain their weight loss.
You should write down everything, including your snacks, candy, and all the meals that you consume.
You can either use an offline journal such as a diary or use online methods such as journaling apps or websites.
Both methods are effective in boosting your motivation.
Reward Yourself
You should not beat yourself up during this journey.
Of course, you will have to be disciplined, but you can reward yourself from time to time.
For instance, when you reach a certain goal, you can treat yourself by going to the movies or buying a pair of sneakers.
By rewarding yourself, you will be interested in the weight loss journey by appreciating that your efforts will be rewarded.
The truth is motivation comes and goes. Some days or weeks you’ll be super motivated, others you’ll struggle to get out of bed let alone get to the gym.
Using some or all of these tips can go a long way towards helping you stay on track and achieving your dreams!
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