To achieve anything new takes a certain amount of planning, with specific targets to measure progress. This applies to everything – including a weight loss regime. Barack Obama didn’t become the President of the USA without goal planning.
The most successful people on any diet programme are those who set themselves realistic, achievable goals to get them from A to B. Spending a little time planning these goals will pay dividends down the road. To have a chance of reaching your goals, they should always be S.M.A.R.T. – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Targeted.
To really get involved at an emotional level with the successful completion of your weight loss regime, compose a contract for yourself using the following headings: Defining the new ‘you’ is the first criteria. Write down a list of exactly what you want from losing weight. Have a clear-cut picture of who you will be and the lifestyle you’ll enjoy when the excess weight has gone.
Desire – explore your emotions for this one and dig deep to discover why your weight is important. Identify whether it’s to build better relationships with the opposite sex, enjoy better health, feel more in control etc.
Moving on now to Dedication: Set aside ‘official’ working-out times to help you commit to them. This prevents you from thinking about other things that you could be doing.
It helps to establish a routine, which in turn helps you to remain committed. Once your timetable has become established, you’ll take pride in your dedication. You’ll exercise all the better for it.
The purpose of a contract is to have written evidence of your Determination. It helps having a physical document that is there for all to see. Finally, a Disciplined individual will have the strength to cope with set-backs. Obviously there will be knocks along the way, but a well planned regime will bring structure to your weight loss efforts.
Read your contract every day, and add positive new jottings and pictures to it that will help you when the going gets tough. This will help you to see your goal through. Plan your work, and then work your plan with commitment. Ensure your weight loss success with the right goals and plans.
