Support for Weight Loss Success
If you've tried to lose weight in the past and gave up before reaching your goal, don't completely throw in the towel. Many people who try to lose weight and initially fail don't have the kind of support they need from friends, co-workers, and loved ones. Compliments are very beneficial, but it takes a lot of encouragement and continual support to achieve weight-loss success, and if those around you are willing to become actively involved in helping you reach your goal, you're more likely to actually reach it.
Setting Your Goal
When setting a weight-loss goal, don't make the mistake of trying to lose an unreasonable amount of weight in an unrealistic amount of time. Set a sensible goal to lose one or two pounds per week. If you lose a pound or two more in the process, that's fantastic, but if you strive to lose any more than a pound or two a week you're setting yourself up for failure.
Weight and height charts are very helpful, but each individual is different, and the weight-loss plan you follow and your goal should depend largely upon your health and any existing medical conditions. Consult your physician regarding the amount of weight you should lose before beginning your weight-loss program. Your physician will offer advice regarding the amount of weight you should lose as well as the best weight-loss plan for your individual dietary needs.
Making a Chart
When beginning your weight-loss plan, create a chart that will help you keep track of the weight you've lost. Design a grid that contains one square for every pound you want to lose. Post the chart on your refrigerator or another visible location, and you'll be able to easily see your progress as well as how far you have to go. Losing weight won't seem nearly as difficult when you can envision reaching your objective, and a weight-loss chart will bring your goal into perspective.
Each time you lose a pound, place a sticker of your choice on the appropriate square on your weight-loss chart. Choose stars, smiley faces, flowers, hearts, or any other motivating symbols. Being able to add a sticker to a square is an outstanding accomplishment, and you'll gain confidence and the drive to lose more weight every time you add one to your chart.
Supporting Sponsors
Some people find it extremely beneficial to enlist the help of family, co-workers, and friends when beginning a weight-loss plan. For added support and a greater chance of success, ask those you know to sponsor you in your weight-loss endeavor. Those you know who want to help you succeed will appreciate being included and will be happy to lend the motivating support you need.
After deciding the total amount of weight you want to lose, ask supporters to each choose a number as well as an incentive. For example, if you want to lose fifty pounds, have supporters chose a number between one and fifty. At the same time, ask supporters to come up with a helpful incentive that will compel you to reach that goal. The incentive could be as simple as a day away or as generous as a new outfit. Each time you reach a milestone, the sponsor for that milestone will fulfill their promise. You'll benefit in more ways than one, and your sponsors will have the satisfaction of knowing their support led to your ultimate success.