Often, when people think of weight loss success stories, they focus on all the hard work they put in working out, going to the gym, eating healthy, etc. All of this is absolutely important to achieving weight loss goals, but this often overlooks, arguably, the most important aspect, the Mind.
Losing weight is as much a mental challenge as it is physical. In fact, one could argue that losing weight starts first in the head. We need to consciously decide first that we might be too heavy to lead a healthy life. Self-reflection is key to starting, planning, and sticking to any weight loss plan.
Approach Weight Loss from an analytical perspective.
One of the most common mistakes people make when trying to lose weight is setting extreme goals and expectations for themselves. This can set you up for a huge let down, if the goals are not actually feasible, which could lead to disappointment and shame, both of which are never good.
By taking the time to actually analyze and understand your weight loss goals, you are able to create a balanced, healthy, and realistic weight loss plan. Taking it one step at time will allow one to ease into their routine and ultimately help them achieve their goals.
Look at the people around you, and ask yourself if this is a supportive environment.
Losing weight can be both a physical and mental challenge. Sometimes the mental part can prove to be even more difficult due to your surroundings. Do your best to remove any negativity around you, that includes friends and family that might not be entirely supportive of your endeavors. Replace the negativity with positive encouragement from those around you and use it as motivation to stick to your goals.
Don’t be scared of what others say or think.
For many of us, the hardest part of losing weight is dealing with the social shame we might feel over our body image. Sure, there may be those who will point and laugh at your physique at first, but don’t let that stop you. You are working out for yourself and your health, and you will never meet your weight loss goals if you let others dictate how you feel and shame you into going back inside. Instead, you can let it go in one ear and out the other or use it as motivation to work even harder.
Find out why you gained so much weight.
Over indulgence isn’t just a problem with drugs and alcohol but with food as well. A lot of times, we may have emotionally or psychological triggers that lead us into overeating to overcome them. If you understand what triggers you to overeat, then you have a better chance of being able to overcome it.
Most importantly, believe in yourself.
It all starts with you. If you don’t have faith in yourself to meet your weight loss goals, then why should anyone else?