Weight loss can be a daunting feat. Trust me, I know. I used to be a yo-yo dieter on the never-ending hamster wheel, until one day something clicked. I changed my thought process and implemented these 5 simple habits. That was 23 years and 60 lbs. ago. I’ve managed to keep the weight off, and want to share the secret of my weight loss with you. Ladies and gentlemen, I present you five simple habits that can help you lose weight.
Educate Yourself
Pay close attention. Before starting your weight loss journey, educate yourself on nutrition and how to read labels. This will empower you to make informed choices about the foods you consume. Understanding the nutritional value of different foods enables you to build a well-balanced, calorie-controlled diet that supports your weight loss goals. Moreover, nutrition knowledge helps debunk myths, challenge fad diets, and cultivate a sustainable and healthy relationship with food, promoting long-term success in your weight loss journey.
Tip: Choose the right diet plan for you (cutting calories or carbs, paleo, etc.). Combined with your nutritional education, the weight will start to fall off!
Shop Smart
Grocery shopping can be a real challenge when it comes to losing weight, which is why making smart choices can make all the difference. Rule #1, NEVER ENTER A SUPERMARKET HUNGRY. It leads to you throwing things in the cart out of impulse and hunger. Opt for fresh, whole foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to fuel your body with nutritious goodness. Avoid the temptation of unhealthy snacks and sugary drinks by having a well-planned shopping list and sticking to it. Don’t forget to read food labels and be mindful of portion sizes to make informed choices that support your weight loss goals.
Tip: Learn where the junk food aisle is and don’t even look that way. Close your eyes when walking by it if you have to. The same goes for the candy at the checkout stand.
Surround Yourself with Like-Minded People
Surrounding yourself with like-minded people when trying to lose weight can provide a supportive and motivating environment. They understand the challenges and goals associated with weight loss, allowing for shared experiences, tips, encouragement, and accountability. Additionally, being in the company of individuals who prioritize health and wellness can inspire positive habits and reinforce a healthy lifestyle as a collective pursuit.
Tip: Think about your current relationships and analyze if they are helping you with your weight loss goals, or leading you down the path of temptation.
Start Moving
To lose one pound, you need to be in a caloric deficit of approximately 3,500 calories. This means consuming fewer calories than your body burns. This is why moving your body is a game changer. It amps up your calorie burn helping you to reach that caloric deficit. It also revs up your metabolism and gives you endorphins.
But with so many different types of exercise, how do you choose which is best for you? You’ve got the gym with the treadmill and all the machines, and then there’s simply getting up and walking. It’s 80% as beneficial as running and easier on the joints. For those who aren’t fans of the gym, treadmill, or running/walking outside, there are also hundreds of FREE workouts you can do from the comfort of your own home.
Tip: If you’re going to start at the gym, or walking/running on a treadmill/outside, make sure you have a good workout playlist. Trust me, it helps!
Set Goals
Setting goals is a simple habit that can help you lose weight. Goals provide a clear direction and motivate you to stay on track. Setting goals allows you to establish specific, measurable targets, such as losing a certain amount of weight or inches, which helps track progress and celebrate milestones. Additionally, setting goals helps create a sense of accountability, allowing you to make intentional choices and develop healthier habits that contribute to long-term success.
Tip: Make sure that you also reward yourself for achieving these goals. Maybe treat yourself to a shopping spree, spa day, or even an extra helping of dessert!
It might seem like a lot to keep track of all at once, but using a tool like a weight loss journal can help you stay focused and on track as you work towards your weight loss goals.
