- Keep trying. One of the keys to my weight loss is I finally kept falling forward. If a certain strategy didn’t work, it didn’t mean I was a failure. As long I was learning something from my experience, it provided me valuable insight into what might work better for me in the future.
- Accept a temporary discomfort. Losing weight is never easy or fun. When I made up my made to FINALLY keep going it became very uncomfortable for me. Sometimes it was emotionally difficult to face issues that were contributing to my unhealthy eating. Sometimes I felt hungry or left out if friends or family were indulging. I hear me on this (and yes easier said than done – but YOU CAN do it), know that feeling uncomfortable will pass and does not last forever.
- Find inspiration. Sometimes I found it easier to make healthy changes for others — like getting ready for a family milestone like a wedding or a class reunion. I can share this, whether your inspiration is the image of yourself wearing that little black dress, having more confidence, being there for your kids or grandchildren or lowering your blood pressure so that you don’t need medicine anymore, keep your inspiration in mind when you’re tempted to eat unhealthy foods or skip your exercise routine. Take a moment to pause and challenge yourself.
- Find new rewards. I don’t know about you but I enjoy eating and in the past rewarded myself with food like ice cream or cookies. It was difficult at times when you are trying to lose weight to substitute other rewards. Figure out ahead of time what makes you feel good — taking a long bath, spending time with loved ones, enjoying a hobby or getting a massage. Then, when you have something to celebrate or want to indulge in, you’ll be prepared with healthy and rewarding activities.
- Focus on sleep. Sleep plays an important role in weight management. Studies show that not getting quality sleep or getting fewer than 7 hours of sleep at night can lead to weight gain. If you find that you struggle with sleep, perhaps look at your bedtime routine do you have a bedtime routine? Like shutting down electronics an hour before bed, keeping the room temperature no higher than 68 degrees, and having complete darkness and silence when you go to bed.
- Try something different. If you tried losing weight on your own in the past and it didn’t work, try joining a weight-loss group. If your partner isn’t willing to eat healthy along with you, talk about how they might support you in the future. Figure out some of the reasons why you weren’t able to lose weight before and find the area of opportunity to do things differently. If you are still challenged, consider seeking a coach or find an accountability partner!