How to Get the Motivation to Lose Weight

Gaining weight seems to happen overnight, but losing it is another matter entirely. If you manage to tap into the motivation to start a diet, it can be hard to keep that same enthusiasm about your weight-loss routine week in and week out. If you are struggling to find a way to keep the needle on the scale moving downward, motivation is key in winning your weight-loss battle.

Things You'll Need

• Journal
• Motivational images

Tips

1. Set realistic goals. Nothing destroys motivation like realizing your goal is unattainable. If you have a significant amount of weight to lose, don't use the final weight you want to reach as your only goal. Instead, set small, achievable goals along the way. You may not be able to lose 25 lbs. this month, but losing 8 is not out of the question. Reaching your mini goals will help you move steadily toward reaching the big one. Be sure to track your goals and progress in a journal so you can see the progress you are making on paper.

2. Think of something you want to be able to do when your weight is off, and use that to tap into your drive. Maybe you want to wear a bikini to the beach or you want to go on an exotic trip. Find pictures of that thing you want to do; clip out some bikini pictures from magazines or find some travel brochures for your destination of choice. Hang these images around your home and keep one in your bag to remind you of what you are working toward.

3. Reward yourself often. The final payoff may be a ways off, but when you accomplish something important in your diet, give yourself a nonfood related treat. If you reach one of your short-term weight-loss goals, reward yourself with a new pair of shoes. If you manage to turn down the cupcakes a co-worker brought into the office, treat yourself to a night at the movies. The positive reinforcement you give yourself will help you stay on track toward your weight-loss goals.