How to Lose Weight

This article explains the things I've learned in my quest to lose weight. I've used the tips below to lose over 80 pounds to date, and believe me, if I can do it, anyone can do it.

There are five keys to losing weight.

1. Motivation
   
   


2. Calorie Goals
   
   


3. Food
   
   


4. Exercise
   
   


5. Positive Thinking
   
   

Motivation

Motivation is the first and often hardest step. It doesn't mean telling yourself "I'm so fat! I've got to lose weight!" It means telling yourself "I am seriously going to do this." It means cultivating a supply of energy you can draw upon when you don't feel like getting up to work out, or when turning down a piece of cake, or to maintain a positive frame of mind.

Where do you find motivation? It comes from wanting change, but feeds on success. Think of motivation as a plant you tend, helping it grow slowly but surely. Use your desire for change to get started. Make small changes in your behavior. Drink three fewer sodas a day, or take the stairs instead of the elevator. These changes need to be small things you can actually accomplish. Don't set big goals to start! Know that bigger goals are coming, but for now, you are feeding your tender plant with tiny amounts of food and water, to get it started.

These small changes do actually make a difference. Be watching out for improvement! When you see it, latch onto it and celebrate! You've gotten over the biggest hurdle; you've discovered that change brings results. You have success, and the small changes didn't kill you.

Next, set your goals a little higher. It will be a little harder to make these changes, but when you feel you are slipping, remind yourself about your prior successes. These are proof that you can do it. Making lifestyle changes is extremely hard, but you are succeeding, one step at a time! Keep these successes fresh in your mind, because they give you the motivation you need.

Calorie Goals