Even if you're ready for a dramatic life change, maintaining your weight loss motivation can be a challenge. If you follow a number of rules, however, you'll find renewed motivation as you move toward your goals. We'll discuss four of them below.
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.
Keeping a log -- The next rule we're going to discuss may be the most important one of all. Keep a journal! Recording your personal numbers as well as the food you eat and the activity your perform will have a huge payoff.
Use the journal to record interesting weight loss facts that you come across. Record your emotions during the weight loss process. The journal enables you to discover patterns in your behavior and offers encouragement when your motivation wanes.
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.
Your journal is an excellent spot for you to record the information that you learn. To experience continued motivation, you'll want to review this data often, until it becomes second nature.
Envision the future -- The final rule that we're going to share with you now is that you must have a vision. You probably already have a weight loss goal in mind, but your motivation and ultimate success depend on much more than that! You must regularly visualize the process.
Visualize the smallest details. This is not about saying, "I want to lose 20 pounds." This is about visualizing the journey to that goal. What will it take to get there?
Following these four simple rules that we've discussed will help your motivation remain at its peak. The dramatic lifestyle change that you covet will become possible and you'll find that the journey becomes pleasurable as your confidence grows.