1. A written contract. There's nothing as ironclad as a contract. Decide on your weight loss goals and record them in the form of an agreement. Post this on the refrigerator and the bathroom mirror. Put a copy in your wallet or purse. Keeping an eye on your goal will keep you from giving up.
2. Bring a friend along. Do you know someone willing to workout with you? This workout buddy isn't someone who necessarily needs to lose weight, but someone in your same position would understand how important exercising is for you. Both of you can challenge each other to increase your strength and stamina. A workout buddy lessens the chance that you will miss a workout because you just don't feel like going.
3. Reward yourself. When a monthly weight loss goal is met, reward yourself. The goal can be pounds or inches lost. These treats should not be food related. Choose rewards that pamper your body and your soul. A few ideas are: a day at the spa, hair salon, a manicure, or a pedicure. Splurge on a figure flattering outfit or a new pair of shoes. For the guys, a day at the ball game, or fishing, or a new outfit would do just fine.
4. Plan ahead. It has been said that those who fail to plan, plan to fail. Losing weight is not a spectator sport and it is not for the faint of heart. Preparation is the key to success. As far as meals go, fix lunches the night before and place them in the refrigerator. If you run late the next morning, all you need to do is grab your lunch box and go. Shop with a grocery list and stick to it. (Here's where a menu planning service would definitely help.) Rid your home of all high calorie foods that should be eaten in moderation. If the junk foods are not available in the first place, you will not find them when a late night craving hits.
5. Enlist the help of your family. This could be the most annoying part of the process. The job of your family is to keep you out of trouble. They are your conscience, so to speak. They will ask if you did your daily workout and drank your water. They will remind you to skip the take-out and instead choose a home cooked meal. Your family doesn't have to act like the diet police, but they should gently encourage and motivate you whenever possible.
Weight management is an uphill climb. Having the right tools in place will assure your success this time around. And, remember, you don't have to go it alone.
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