How to OrganiseYour Weight Loss Goals

If you are trying to lose weight, you have to want to lose weight. No one can make you lose weight. In fact, increased external pressure — often from people close to you — may only make matters worse. Likewise, trying to lose weight to satisfy someone else rarely works either. You must want to make diet and exercise changes to please yourself.

Of course, this doesn't mean you must do everything alone— the people who know you best will likely be happy to provide encouragement.

Getting ready: It takes a lot of energy to change habits, and you want to be sure you're focused on the matter at hand. Timing is crucial, often making the difference between success and failure. Choose a definite start date within the next month. Once decided, don't put off that date for anything.

Setting goals: Successful weight loss requires lifestyle changes, so set process goals — as opposed to outcome goals, such as losing 50 pounds. And make sure your goals are realistic, specific and measurable —Start small. Remember that you're in this for the long haul. You're making lifestyle changes, and these goals are your first steps in that direction. Anything you undertake too intensely or too vigorously will quickly become uncomfortable and you're more likely to give it up.

Planning and envisioning success: Your old habits may be so ingrained that you practice them without thinking. Your new habits need a chance to become as automatic as your old habits. This can be challenging in certain circumstances, but you can help yourself by knowing your triggers and anticipating them, then make a plan to help you stay on track.

Accepting setbacks: Setbacks are a natural part of behavior change. Everyone who successfully makes changes in his or her life has experienced setbacks. When you have a setback, instead of giving up entirely, simply start afresh the next day. Remember that you're planning to change your life and that healthy weight loss comes slow and steady — 1 or 2 pounds a week. Changes won't happen all at once, but the results will be worth it.