If you wait to ‘get’ motivated, you will probably be waiting for a long time ahead and you
may be waiting until it is too late. The thing is – you have to ‘create’ motivation! DON’T WAIT!
- Glass of water
Here are some strategies to help you get started: Take out that gorgeous dress [or suit] that you haven’t worn for ages because it is too tight. Hang it up where you can see it. This is a great visual reminder to focus on your goal.
When out food shopping – have a look at the labels. Often, the amount of fat or sugar contained within is enough to make you put that item back. The plan is that by looking at the ingredients, you will be motivated to seek out a healthier alternative.
Choose 3 things that you can address or change, in the short term, that are realistic and achievable. For example: I will go out for a short. brisk walk three times in the next week or I will stick to maximum two slices of wholemeal bread in one day or, I will put more vegetables on my plate.
Short-term goals allow you to feel a daily sense of achievement and the confidence that you can continue to lose weight.
Research has shown that support from other people can keep you motivated to lose weight. So if you can’t make that slimming club meeting, or you don’t like that kind of support - think about other ways of getting the support you need.
One-to-one sessions, with a weight management coach, can be very effective.
It’s worth considering a financial commitment to a number of sessions in advance and putting some dates in the diary for a few weeks ahead. If you have already paid for sessions in advance, your are unlikely to abandon your efforts. Same goes for keep fit, yoga and any other regular commitment that involves paying for.
You could join a group online or in person. It is re-assuring to be with other people who are going through struggles too. This is a great way to pick up tips and get support.
If you weigh yourself at the same time each week, with the same clothes on [preferably first thing in the morning in the
nude] and you see the weight is creeping up – don’t wait – start ‘pulling in the reins’ immediately by being really careful in your choices – don’t kid yourself that you will start tomorrow [or next Monday]. Start today. Go and get a glass of water and straight away.
I am sure you have heard this before, however, it is absolutely true that if you keep track of what you eat during the day, by writing it all down, you will feel less likely to eat something that is going to hinder your efforts. This is especially effective, of course, if someone is going to have a good look at your diary and make observations.
Finally, be patient. You are not perfect and you will have good days and bad days. Don’t have unrealistic expectations of yourself or expect to slim down quickly.
Focus on what really matters to you. By repeating “I really want to slim down, more than I wantto eat that chocolate brownie – slimming down is more important” you will eventually adopt this mindset automatically.
I hope you have found these ideas useful – I welcome your comments or feedback.
If you would like a one-to-one consultation, you are welcome to get in touch!
