Losing Weight After Baby: Need a Constant Source of Motivation?

Do you struggle with weight loss? Some days, you feel gung-ho. You’re ready to eat salad and chicken all day long, forsaking desserts for good. Other days, you feel completely hopeless. You think, “why bother?” as you reach to open a bag of cookies.

When fighting a war against unhealthy habits, you will win and lose some battles. The key is keeping in touch with the “why” behind your weight loss so you can win over the long haul. Why do you want to lose your pregnancy pounds? To be attractive? Healthier? For your husband or your kids’ sake? When you’re in touch with your values, the decisions become clear. You’re driven by something higher than your taste buds.

Sometimes you have to consider what you don’t want to realize what you do want:

1. Don’t become a statistic. The proportion of Americans who are overweight or obese has been rising for the past 25 years. Don’t be part of the nearly two-thirds of women in the United States who are overweight, or the one-third who are obese. Being part of this crowd means you’re high risk for heart disease, cancer, diabetes and other major health problems. And the most sobering thing is that your children will follow you.

2. Don’t be a victim. Maybe you come from a family that has struggled with being overweight for generations. Or you find yourself depressed and unable to make wise decisions. Don’t give in to the victim mentality. You can do something positive to turn your situation around. You are not stuck with a particular destiny unless you surrender your will.

3. Don’t wait for a feeling. Most days, you won’t “feel” motivated. Sustainable motivation doesn’t begin with a feeling. It begins with a decision you make with your mind.

Chances are you don’t want to be a statistic, a victim or a procrastinator. Now is the time to make some decisions that will change the course of your life and your children’s. When you need motivation, just look at your precious baby. What kind of health do you want for him or her? Let healthy eating and exercise begin with you!

Today’s Action Step: What is your personal motivation for losing weight after baby?