Weight Loss: Tips to Successfully Lose Weight and Keep it Off
Losing weight and keeping it off can feel like an impossible goal, especially when it’s easier to gain weight than to lose it. If you’re struggling with trying to maintain your weight loss, you may be making some of these common mistakes that are sabotaging your efforts and keeping the pounds from falling off. In this article, we’ll look at some of the most common mistakes people make when trying to maintain their weight loss and how to fix them so that you can achieve long-term results.
Step 1 - Write down your reasons for wanting to lose weight
I decided to write this list because I want people who are looking for a weight loss solution but don't know where to start. It's hard enough just to get motivated in the first place, so here is my list of reasons why you should make the change too!
1) You'll have more energy.
2) You'll have a better mood.
3) You'll feel more confident in your clothes.
4) You'll be able to keep up with your kids without feeling tired all the time.
5) Your clothes will fit better and you'll look good in them!
Step 2 - Create a schedule
1. Set goals for yourself that you want to achieve in the weight loss process. For example, set a goal of losing five pounds in one month, or gaining 10 pounds of muscle mass over two months. Write these goals down so that you can refer back to them as you progress through the process.
2. Make a meal plan for yourself with healthy meals that are appropriate for your diet needs, based on what your goals are (this will vary depending on your specific needs). This should be done every week, or at least once a month if you're not getting much variety in your diet plans.
Step 3 - Get rid of temptations
One of the most important steps in weight loss is removing any temptations from your home. This will make it easier for you to stick to your diet and exercise routine. Some things you should get rid of are unhealthy food, alcohol, junk food, unhealthy desserts, soda pop, etc. Things like fruits and vegetables can stay because they are healthy alternatives that will help with weight loss.
Step 4 - Eat breakfast every day
One of the most important factors in weight loss is diet. Include fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, low-fat dairy products, and good fats like olive oil or avocados; avoid processed foods or food high in sugar, salt, or fat. Breakfast is an especially important meal for maintaining weight loss because breakfast eaters are less likely to overeat later in the day. A healthy breakfast contains protein to keep you feeling full longer plus a complex carbohydrate from whole-grain cereal, fruit, or low-fat dairy product.
Step 5 - Write down everything you eat
A typical day for me is oatmeal in the morning, a snack of almonds at 10 AM, and an apple at noon. I also drink a smoothie made with spinach, kale, cucumber, banana, apple juice, avocado oil, and almond milk every day. For dinner, I have fish or chicken with green vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower. And as far as snacks go I eat nuts or fruit throughout the day.
I've found that I can't lose weight unless I watch my caloric intake - if you're eating more calories than you need your body stores them as fat.
Step 6 - Don't skip workouts
One of the most common mistakes people make when they're trying to lose weight is skipping workouts. This can be detrimental because exercise not only helps you lose weight but it also boosts your immune system, reduces stress, and improves your mood.
With that said, it's essential that you find an activity that suits you best. For some people, this may be as easy as walking around their neighborhood for thirty minutes a day while others might prefer a rigorous workout like boxing or running. No matter what type of workout routine you choose, don't overdo it in the beginning so that you won't burn out quickly. Instead, gradually increase your intensity and frequency until you find the perfect balance for yourself.
Step 7 - Take pictures!
Posting pictures of yourself on social media can be a great way to keep yourself motivated. If you're worried about people making negative comments or judging you, just remember that those people will always exist. You can't let them stop you from achieving your goals. You'll also get support and encouragement from others who are looking for ways to lose weight, too.
Step 8 - Surround yourself with positive people
An important part of losing weight is surrounding yourself with people who are supportive, encouraging, and motivating. The energy of those around you can greatly impact your own levels of motivation. For example, if you're constantly surrounded by friends who make fun of the healthy choices you make or put pressure on you to eat unhealthy food, then that's going to discourage you from sticking with your plan. And when you feel discouraged about losing weight, then it becomes that much harder for you to get started and stick with a diet or exercise program.
Step 9 - Do what works for you.
If you've ever tried dieting before, then you know that there are a lot of different ways of losing weight. I'm not going to say that one method is better than the other or that you must pick one in particular. The best thing you can do is find what works for you, whether it's making your own healthy meals at home, signing up for a gym membership, or hiring a personal trainer. What matters is finding something that will be sustainable for the long-term and keeping at it.
