By the beginning of the year, many of us will have made a New Year’s resolution to lose some weight. In fact, in many cases it will be a bit like “Groundhog Day”: another year, another diet.
The truth is that having a weight loss goal is fine, but the steps you will take to achieve it are much more important. I recommend that you plan the actions you will take and write them down: plan for success.
Now what kind of things should be in your plan, well the following list will give you some clues:
1. A balanced meal schedule
It is important that, if possible, you eat at the same time during the day and never skip a meal. Sustained weight loss will not be achieved by starving yourself.
2. A medically sound exercise program.
Discuss a sensible exercise routine with your medical team if you don’t already have one. This advice is key, you don’t want to damage your health, just improve it.
3. A social journal that reduces the amount of alcohol you drink
If you always drink alcohol when you go to the bar, go less often. Alcohol increases weight and often breaks your willpower, leading to snacking. Sorry, but you really need to cut back!
4. Regular motivational support
It’s hard to commit to a weight loss program, so make your partner or a good friend your biggest supporter. Sit them down and tell them your target weight and explain the program you will follow. Explain your role, which always has to be one of positive support, no matter how well or poorly you are sticking to your plan.
Now and only now are you ready to start tackling that excess weight. So start when your plan is in place and you’re getting the encouragement you need to succeed.
Stick to the plan and take the opportunity next New Year to make another set of resolutions!