Why is it so difficult to lose weight when you have tried everything
to make it happen? Because like any habit, you slip back into familiar
territory without realizing it or worse, you choose not to take
responsibility for your decadent slips.
Now is the time for a wake-up call to get back on diet track. For
some persons all it takes is a weight scale to see those extra pounds
and that is enough to take a serious second look at their diet plan. For
others it might be that photo, taken at last week’s birthday bash that
finally gets them over the edge to a new diet challenge.
Sticking to a diet plan requires a mind and body connection that
motivates you to stay on track even when you don’t feel like it.
Self-monologue–stating positive self-affirmations is one way of telling
yourself throughout the day how much portions to serve, how often to
eat, and when to exercise–to keep your diet in check. Try these 4
simple steps to move you closer to your goal:
Step 1: Tell Yourself You Are Worth It
Who else is going to tell you every moment of the day that you are
worth it! You have your own personal coach – your conscious
mind—uplifting you to achieve the best for yourself. Replace your old
self-monologue with a new positive self-talk—and when doubt tries to
thwart your efforts, repeat a positive affirmation such as– “I will
achieve my goal, I am determined, and deserving; I refuse to fail.”
Step 2: Setting Realistic Goals
If you intend to reach your goals set the rules then write them
down. Setting goals and working toward reaching them is essential in
creating self-fulfillment. Add words of daily encouragement and
direction by telling yourself you are worth it in different ways,
written within your rules.
Keeping a food diary is a must
if you are to honestly assess the amount of calories you consume.
Remember you need to burn more calories than you put in, therefore
ensure that your exercise is sufficient and lasts a minimum of 30
minutes each workout.
Step 3: Choose An Exercise You Enjoy
Find out which exercise will increase your determination to stay with
your regimen. If Pilates, aerobics, kick-boxing, or elliptical
training is more your style, get into the program. Otherwise continue
reprogramming your conscious mind with self-assurances to stay on your
path to achieving goals, regardless of the exercise. Building lean
muscle mass by toning your body and reducing fat intake will have you
burning calories even while you sleep.
You can do it!
Step 4: Indulge Sensibly in Healthy Snacks
Do not deprive yourself of snacks because you are dieting. In fact,
snacking is an important part of any diet. It keeps your metabolism
revved up and ready to burn. Aim for 2 ½ hours between main meals to have your snacks. Choose snacks sensibly, watch out for portions, and continue your calorie count. Great snack ideas include:
- A handful of your favorite nuts [throw in some raisins for added delight]
- Wedged cheese with fruit or wheat crackers
- Dark chocolate – 2 or 3 squares [not milk chocolate]
- Salad with vinaigrette dressing
Those of us who can give ourselves the extra benefit of
self-assurance and self-motivation— are able to override fears–they
become mentally astute to assume any challenge and make it happen. Don’t
wait on someone or something to motivate you, that time may never come!
You can empower yourself to do whatever you choose. Re-program your
attitude to believing that you can…for if it is to be done, it’s
entirely up to you!
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