Commitment Issues? Help Weight-Loss Resolutions Stick
Source: Commitment Issues? Help Weight-Loss Resolutions Stick
Going with the flow can be healthy in many circumstances, but it's not always the best bet when it comes to a weight-loss routine. To see the results you want on the scale and in your clothes, committing to a healthy diet and exercise plan is a must. And with these tips in mind, it's not as hard as you think.
Pencil it in: Keeping a food journal is a helpful technique to achieve your healthy goals. One study found that the women who were the most successful at losing weight monitored their food intake by keeping a journal. In addition, whether you have to jot it down in a calendar, send a series of email reminders, or pay for classes ahead of time, schedule workouts in advance.
Stay positive: Beating yourself up does more harm than good when it comes to weight loss, and anxiety and negativity aren't helping you achieve your goals at all. Focus on keeping a positive attitude and celebrating healthy accomplishments - even when it's tough.
Make time for indulgences: Curbing cravings with an iron fist won't help you maintain a healthy diet in the long run. Enjoying the occasional cupcake or slice of pizza isn't going to ruin your weight-loss goals. A study found that it isn't necessary to increase workout intensity the day after a piece of cake and that a daily variance of as much as 600 calories won't reflect on your waistline.
More from FitSugar: Healthy Eating Habits That Make Dropping Pounds Easier
Find a friend: Having a loved one on a similarly healthy track makes the process less painful. There are plenty of ways to eat healthy when your partner does not, but making conscious choices together is a huge help when it comes to temptation in the kitchen. Similarly, planning workout dates with a friend will help you stick to your plan - and you'll be less likely to bail on someone you love.
No more excuses: The stories you tell yourself to steer clear of your goals are doing your resolution an injustice. Remember that every day counts, and do your best to banish thoughts that keep you from exercising.
Reward yourself: Treating yourself is necessary, and it's important to think beyond food! A show you've recorded on your DVR or a chapter in your book is always better when you've had a productive day, but consider putting a dollar in a jar after every workout. Once you've been committed for a month or two, you'll have a nice chunk of change to buy yourself something you've been coveting!
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