When beginning a weight loss journey, many questions arise regarding how to approach a new and healthier lifestyle. You might start out countlessly researching advice, tips, or tricks on how to achieve your ideal figure. You might find yourself trying different “diets” or methods to reach your goal as soon as possible. Or, you might shudder at the mere thought of restricting yourself and ditching your favorite comfort foods for healthier “fixes.” And if you don’t see the immediate results you desire, giving up may seem like an easier option.
The truth is, there are many upsides of progress than just watching the number on the scale tick down. Having more energy, a happier mood, and slashing pesky junk-food cravings also are regarded as breakthroughs to a healthier and stronger you. But when thinking about all of the different factors that go into weight loss and making a lifestyle change, overwhelming yourself and getting sidetracked seems effortless. Here are some tips to remember when starting a weight loss journey:
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1. It’s called a journey for a reason.
If you did not gain the weight in a week, do not expect to lose the same amount in a week. Quick fixes are not the way to go, especially if you want to keep the weight off. It’s called a journey for a reason; transitioning into living a healthier lifestyle takes tremendous effort, patience, and consistency. It is normal for everyone to have trial and error or experience an “off” day here and there; you’re human. Remember, there’s no perfect layout on how or when you achieve your goals.
2. Following someone else’s lifestyle might not work for you.
Everyone’s body is different. Therefore, the “diet” that might have helped your friend shed the pounds and keep them off may not exactly work for you. Instead, try learning your own body by determining what foods you are willing to incorporate into your diet (or cut out) and securing a stable exercise regimen that works for you.
3. Moderation is key.
Becoming a healthier version of yourself does not mean you cannot indulge, nor absolutely have to cut off your favorite comfort foods. Try having it in moderation. Instead of reaching for the usual four slices of pizza, try having one slice and a filling salad to keep you full. Also, a little dessert every once in a while, never harmed anybody. Some people can incorporate a cheat day every week, eat everything in moderation, or go cold turkey; it depends on what works best according to YOUR lifestyle. To ease mastering moderation, try using smaller plates, measuring cups, meal-prepping, or a food tracking app to monitor your calories and nutrients!
4. Appreciate the body you’re in.
When trying to lose weight, there’s a percentage of people that can state the main cause is due to despising the body they’re in or hating the way they feel or see themselves when you look in the mirror. And personally, I have fallen victim to this mentality more times than I can count. But remember this is the only body you have and it’s keeping you alive and fighting for you. If it wasn’t for your body, you wouldn’t be reading this right now. Even if you’re unsatisfied with your body now, appreciating the body you’re in will make your journey much more bearable and exciting. You got this!