5 Ways to Make your Diet a Success

September 6, 2008

Its no simple task to lose weight. Saying youre going to start a diet, or eat healthier or get in shape is a far different thing than putting those plans in motion. Its takes an honest commitment and hard work on your part. For most of us with busy schedules, and usually living on a budget, it seems like a daunting task. But, if youre ready to lose weight in a healthy manner and actually see positive results, then stick to these five really easy to follow tips.

1. Set realistic goals
Youre not going to lose 50 pounds this week, or the next. You can most certainly start losing the weight though. Being honest with yourself about what you want to accomplish and when that can actually be accomplished will help you avoid giving up. You can do this. Just be patient.

2. Choose your method
Have you tried restrictive diets in the past and wound up with more frustration than weight lost? Then dont do get burned twice. That method isnt the best for you. Lets face it, there are as many ways to lose weight as there are cures for hiccups. Do your homework and visit with your doctor. Then decide on the plan thats right for you.

3. Reward yourself
If you aced an exam or got promoted at work, youd likely celebrate. So dont forget to reward the milestones in your weight loss journey. Get a pedicure for that first 10 pounds. Buy a new outfit for that extra 20. Hit the 50 or 100 pound marks? Take a vacation youve always wanted. This will keep you from becoming discouraged and help you to keep looking forward.

4. Write it down
Journaling is not a new concept. People have been keeping diaries of their daily lives for hundreds of years. Journaling has also proven to be a great way to help people lose weight. Carry a small notebook with you and make note of everything you eat or drink. This will help you identify calorie counts, times of day, weaknesses and even what youve been doing right. You can also use your weight loss journal to outline goals (and rewards!), exercise an more.

5. Keep moving
Dont believe the hype- youre not going to lose weight unless you exercise. If you want to lose weight, it has to be a 50/50 partnership of diet and exercise. The E-word is not a popular one, but youll realize serious results if you do. It can be as expensive or cheap as you like and it can absolutely be on your terms. Spend 30 minutes a day, 3-5 times a week engaging in physical exercise. If youre new to exercise, get your doctors OK first. Start out slow and dont over exert yourself. If you hurt yourself, its not going to do you any favors. Find an exercise program that you enjoy. If running turns you off, but you love laps in the pool- then do the laps. Youre more likely to stick to it if you enjoy doing it.

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