What is your weight loss goal? Lose 10lbs, 20lbs or more? Many people on a weight loss program have their goal firmly imprinted in their mind; this is something to work towards. If you are one of the many who have their weight loss goal etched in memory, then you will want to read this article. Specifically we will discuss how to properly set a goal, and the steps needed to keep continued focus on the goal.
A goal, by definition, is not a goal unless there is a 'deadline' date next to it. Therefore, 'I want to weigh 120lbs', or I want to lose 50lbs' is not a weight loss goal. If you have worked in a business atmosphere, or gone to school, then you know that every goal (or project) has steps that have to be completed in order to reach the desired goal. A weight loss goal is no different.
'I want to weigh 120lbs' is your main goal, but what steps are you going to take to ultimately reach that goal?
How to Properly Set a Weight Loss Goal:
- Write down why you want to achieve this goal, include your feelings and innermost thoughts. Place this in your nightstand or someplace that is easily accessible to you.
- Get a small white board; place it so that you will see it several times a day.
- Write your main goal at the top of the white board, along with the date that you think is reachable.
- Under your main goal list the steps that need to be met this week to get closer to the main goal. Examples of these steps would be; Exercise 20 minutes 3 days this week, Cook three healthy meals for dinner, Eat breakfast every day. You may have other goals to add, such as 'replace one soda with water every day'. Don't forget to add dates after each entry
- Look at your goals every morning and every evening.
- Note your progress on the white board, for example if you cooked a healthy dinner, write down '1', place a check mark for every day that you ate breakfast and exercised.
- At the end of week one, look at your progress and note your problem areas.
- Now write your goals for week two, paying special attention to the area that you defined as a 'problem area'.
Repeat steps 4 through 8 until you reach your main goal.
Continued Focus on The Weight Loss Goal
Setting up your goals in this fashion keeps you focused, just by looking at your white board on a daily basis. Having steps to a goal written down has the effect of constantly reminding you of what needs to be done, and will bring pangs of guilt if not reached!
Another trick to help keep your focus on the main goal, (especially if you are having a 'this-isn't-worth-it' day) is to go to step 1 and read why you want to reach your weight loss goal.
When you have a week of all steps completed, reward yourself. (Not with food). Buy that blouse or pair of pants that you have been wanting, or treat yourself to a movie. At the bottom of the white board, keep track all of the weeks that earned a star for step completion. This allows you to see your accomplishments on a daily basis.
Instead of beating yourself up because you missed one exercise day, or because you had a candy bar, look at your accomplishments. Congratulate yourself and be proud of what you have achieved.
I wish you success on your weight loss journey.
Kathy Bryant hosts a weight loss site that also has focus on ways to make the dieter feel upbeat and proud of their accomplishments and ways to enjoy eating healthy. Weight loss products are reviewed honestly and good products are promoted. To find out more, visit http://www.fastweightlossbyk.com
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