Motivation Tips to Lose Weight

Everyone needs a boost in motivation at times when it comes to losing weight and keeping it off. Weight loss can boost energy and increase self confidence but it can be difficult to maintain the necessary level of motivation to accomplish your goals. Employing certain strategies can help give you the motivation you need to succeed.

Make A List

Making a list of your goals can help you succeed in losing weight. List everything you would like to accomplish on a sheet of paper. Hang it somewhere you will look each day. Be realistic when setting your goals; if you would like to lose 50 lbs., start by attempting to lose 8 to 10 lbs. in the first month. Your list could include how much weight you want to lose each month, fitness goals and what size clothes you would like to wear. Each small success will motivate you to stay the course and continue. Cross off each goal as you meet it and in time all of your goals will be met. Make a new list with a different set of goals once you have completed your list.

Keep A Journal

Keep a journal and write down everything you eat each day. Keeping a list of the foods you eat will make you more aware of where your calories are coming from and the areas you are making mistakes. Writing down everything you eat will also discourage you from eating small handfuls of chips or candy. Online journals are available for those who wish to keep a record of their daily food intake on the computer. One free online journal is www.fitday.com and it allows you to list your food and it calculates your calories, fat and carbohydrates each day on a convenient pie chart. You can also list your exercise and other activities for an accurate fitness assessment. Fitday.com also has a journal where you can keep track of how you are feeling each day and record your weight.

Change It Up

If you are having difficulty maintaining your weight-loss motivation, consider changing your goals for a period of one to three months. Redirect your focus to boost your confidence level. If you have been struggling to lose a few pounds for quite some time, switch it up and focus on your level of fitness. You could revise your goals to include gaining lean muscle mass or being able to run three miles.Try not to focus on losing weight, but on your new fitness-oriented goals. Adding lean muscle will help you reach your weight loss goals because gains in muscle gives your metabolism a much needed boost. As your fitness level increases, the weight will probably come off as long as your diet is on track. Changing it up can boost your confidence and help you reach goals you never thought you could reach.