Encouragement Tips
It’s easy to become discouraged when trying to lose weight. Instead of focusing on the failure of your past habits, consider focusing on 30 minutes to a flat stomach. Set attainable goals. This means goals that you have control over. If you set a goal to lose five pounds in a week, you have no control and set yourself up for failure. Instead, set a goal to exercise 30 minutes a day five days a week. Along with that set a goal to stay within your calorie count. As you achieve these goals each week, your motivation will increase. Other tips include:
- Measure instead of weigh — Measure your waist and stomach before you start and again each six weeks. Weight can fluctuate as fat is replaced by water or muscle. A tape measure shows the inches melting off your midsection.
- Keep a food diary
- Reward yourself with a pedicure or massage after six weeks
- Plan ahead – Print out a copy of calorie amounts for various fast food chains and keep them in your car. Then if you find yourself in a situation where you have to eat out, you’ll be prepared to make informed choices. You can find fast food calorie information on line.
- While walking for exercise, also hold in your stomach muscles to the count of 10. Release for a count of 10, and repeat. This will help to tone your stomach as you walk.
- If you start to get bored, change to another routine. Mix things up.
- Drink plenty of water.