Get motivated!
Think about what inspires you
If you want to be successful in your weight-loss journey then you need to use one of the most powerful aids available – motivation. Motivation is a major influence on our behaviour – it’s why we do most of what we do.
Motivation can be internal or external. Losing weight because you are facing a health crisis is an example of motivation that’s external. Deciding to get fit so you can look great on your wedding day is internal motivation. Both types of motivation can be equally powerful and enough to get you up and moving towards a new you.
Keeping the momentum
Motivation is so important because it makes us take action and helps us keep moving towards our goals. The problem is that motivation waxes and wanes. It doesn't stay the same. You might be keen to exercise one week only to find that the following week, you can barely pull your sneakers on.
If you’re finding it difficult to stick to your weight-loss plan, then chances are you've lost your motivation. To move forward again you need to determine why you’re feeling disenchanted.
Be inspired
To find your motivation, start thinking about what inspires you. Motivation is highly personal. The thing that gets you moving, probably won't work for someone else. Also it might take you a while to find yours, while some one else might find theirs instantly.
If it's difficult for you to determine what inspires and motivates you, keep talking and thinking about it. And try answering these two questions...
- What’s the one thing I want most?
- How can I use it to motivate me to lose weight?
Increase your enthusiasm
Weight loss takes time and your motivation has to be powerful enough to get you through to your goal. So make sure it’s something you really, really, want! If you’re sure that you’ve got the perfect motivation but you still need to increase your enthusiasm a bit then...
- Be inspired by other successful members on the forums and talk to them for advice and support. Support is an important part of motivation.
- Read or listen to motivational material. Instead of reading the daily newspaper with breakfast or coffee in the morning, try reading an inspirational book instead.
- Surround yourself with positive people. Avoid negativity and stick with optimistic people who can get you through challenging times.