Weight loss: More motivation tips

Did you know that most dieters expect to lose as much as four times more than they realistically can, within a six-month period?

That means that while you’re reading this, you’re hoping to drop a lot more weight that your body is capable of. That’s not ideal, considering you’ve given yourself six months to fit into your matric farewell dress again at your high-school reunion. Does this sound familiar?

That is probably because you’ve been in this position too, just like I have, but getting over unrealistic weight-loss expectations and staying motivated is possible.

Pick your goals

I’ve spoken about this so often and will again ... pick your goals and stick to them. Think of something realistic for your goals, like losing 10 kilograms in six months. This will be attainable, sustainable and you won't have to live off lettuce and water to achieve it.

This isn’t the end of that goal though, add to it to give it more validity by having something extra added. Try to bulk up your weight-loss goals with an additional goal that isn’t scale focused, like fitting into your matric farewell dress within a year.

Perfect your plan

Instead of diving into the next big diet fad, create your own, that fits into your lifestyle. You only need to cut out 150 calories a day to lose 7.5 kilograms in a year, which is basically a slice of pizza and then some.

You know what you like to eat, you know how you can eat and what your budget is capable of, so be your own eating plan designer.

You only need to cut out 150 calories a day to lose 7.5 kilograms in a year, which is basically a slice of pizza and then some

Make a list of daily meals, snacks and try to drink at least eight glasses of water a day. You’ll be surprised how quickly healthy habits bring results.

See the new you

Visualisation is a powerful tool and when put into practice, we can achieve incredible things. A mental dress rehearsal prepares you to recognise and accept that your goals are successful.

Close your eyes, breathe deeply and picture a healthier, slimmer version of yourself. Take note of how you feel, how much confidence you have and how great it is to reach your goal.

Now go out and make those visions a reality!

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