Weight Loss Tip #140 – Set realistic goals for yourself

‘I’m fed up of being so overweight and unhealthy. I will work hard and lose 10 kgs in two months,’ declared my friend. After years of binge eating on high calorie food items and leading a very sedentary lifestyle, my friend decided it was time to mend his ways and start losing weight to feel better about himself. He further went on to say he would hit the gym every single day and switch to a very low calorie diet to knock off 10 kgs in a few weeks.

While I was happy to see that he finally realized he needs to lead a healthier lifestyle, I warned him that he couldn’t possibly lose 10 kgs in just two months. He argued vehemently that if Bollywood actors and models could pull it off, it isn’t impossible. At the same time, I noticed that after walking for barely one kilometer together, he was out of breath and sweating profusely.

Of course, he didn’t manage to knock off 10 kgs in that time span and he ended up feeling dejected and shortly went back to his old ways. If you’re currently trying to lose weight, be realistic about your limitations. If you haven’t been physically active, tell yourself you will try to lose just one or two kgs each month and persistently work towards achieving that easy target month after month.

By setting achievable targets, you will be more consistent with exercising and dieting and with some patience, your efforts will start paying off in the next five to six months. When it comes to dieting, don’t make any radical changes. Instead, eat in smaller plates and don’t stock foods that tempt you. Other simple tips like having soup before your meal times will also help in keeping any food cravings at bay.

When it comes to exercising, take it easy in the gym. Start with light weight lifting and 40 minutes of cardio exercises and intensify your workouts only under the guidance of a gym trainer after a few weeks or months depending on your progress. If you manage to lose two kgs each month, by the end of five months, you will achieve a much slimmer body and more importantly, you will feel healthier and happy about your amazing progress.

---

 

1. Prev:Weight Loss Tip #141 – Look for an online weight loss buddy to stay motivated
2. Next:Weight loss tip #138: Don’t stock foods that tempt you