Helping the Yo-Yo Dieter Find Motivation!
Gail Davis
July 08, 2009
Anyone who has spent any time fretting over the scale knows that dieting is a mental game. Weight loss motivation can be difficult to come by, but if your head is in the right place, no temptation is too strong. If not, well…it can be an exercise in frustration! The very first time you try something new, including a new weight loss regime, you have a significantly better chance of succeeding. After that, we all know the statistics!
There are several steps that the "seasoned dieter" can take to improve the odds of success. First of all, nothing works quite as well as writing down what you eat. Whether it´s called tracking, journaling, or simply keeping a log, the act of recording your food and alcohol consumption makes you aware. Being aware is truly half the battle!
Another step that ensures success is finding a like-minded buddy or support group. Whether you´re dieting together, exercising together, or just commiserating together, the support will keep you on your journey twice as long as someone who takes the journey alone!
Speaking of exercise, including it in your weight loss program is imperative for your continued motivation and success. You can lose weight without exercise, and research shows that the majority of overweight people hate to sweat, but without exercise you won´t feel as well at the end of the day, you won´t lose weight as quickly, you won´t be as toned at the end of your journey, and you won´t keep the weight off as long. So, consider adding some activity to your daily routine. Instead of focusing on the activity, focus on and appreciate your environment or your vision for the new you.
The last important step that we will discuss here to help the yo-yo dieter find motivation is the recommendation to embrace narcissism. Yes, make yourself number one! Spend time in front of the mirror and engage in both criticism and praise. Notice all the details that you´ve ignored for months or even years! Pull out your tape measure and record your measurements in your food journal. Recheck them monthly for changes. Notice all the big and small changes in your face and body as your scale announces your weekly progress. Spend time meditating daily so the vision you have for yourself is front and center at all times. Be your own cheerleader! Practicing these simple but important steps will help ensure that even the most seasoned dieter remains motivated for the journey ahead!
There are several steps that the "seasoned dieter" can take to improve the odds of success. First of all, nothing works quite as well as writing down what you eat. Whether it´s called tracking, journaling, or simply keeping a log, the act of recording your food and alcohol consumption makes you aware. Being aware is truly half the battle!
Another step that ensures success is finding a like-minded buddy or support group. Whether you´re dieting together, exercising together, or just commiserating together, the support will keep you on your journey twice as long as someone who takes the journey alone!
Speaking of exercise, including it in your weight loss program is imperative for your continued motivation and success. You can lose weight without exercise, and research shows that the majority of overweight people hate to sweat, but without exercise you won´t feel as well at the end of the day, you won´t lose weight as quickly, you won´t be as toned at the end of your journey, and you won´t keep the weight off as long. So, consider adding some activity to your daily routine. Instead of focusing on the activity, focus on and appreciate your environment or your vision for the new you.
The last important step that we will discuss here to help the yo-yo dieter find motivation is the recommendation to embrace narcissism. Yes, make yourself number one! Spend time in front of the mirror and engage in both criticism and praise. Notice all the details that you´ve ignored for months or even years! Pull out your tape measure and record your measurements in your food journal. Recheck them monthly for changes. Notice all the big and small changes in your face and body as your scale announces your weekly progress. Spend time meditating daily so the vision you have for yourself is front and center at all times. Be your own cheerleader! Practicing these simple but important steps will help ensure that even the most seasoned dieter remains motivated for the journey ahead!
Print
Email
