Unlocking Your Best Self: The Power of a Thoughtful Weight Loss Plan
Vitality Magazine August 22, 2024 Guest PostAnything worth doing requires careful planning if only to make sure you don’t get lost in the sauce, aka you don’t end up giving along the way because, put quite simply, you do not have a destination. That being said, losing weight can actually be achievable and easy with a handy plan by your side that acts as that pesky accountability partner reminding you of what you said you will do. Let’s look into getting you a weight loss plan, shall we?
Why an Organized Weight Loss Plan Works
A good, well-thought-out plan will act like the blinders placed on a racehorse that only sees where it’s going and how to get there while removing the obstacles! In this analogy, you are the horse, and the blinders are your weight loss plan. You’ll be accountable and gain some clarity, so it all feels less overwhelming. With a plan in place, you’ll alert your mind of possible risks, become your biggest cheerleader when you successfully complete a task and be persistently consistent throughout the process.
Crafting Your Weight Loss Plan: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Set Clear and Achievable Goals
Writing something like “I want to lose weight” is essentially the same as saying “I want to travel.” It is a vague statement that has no destination and will probably end with remaining in the same predicament you have always been in. Thus, you have to say, “I want to dump 10.6 pounds.” To really get those gears churning.
Step 2: Evaluate Your Diet
What do your current eating habits look like? For a week, keep a food journal. Write down what you eat, the portion size, and how you feel when you’re having your meals. Doing this will help you identify trends and areas that needing work.
Step 3: Create a Balanced Meal Plan
Based on the notes from your previous step, draft a meal plan for the week that aligns with your goals and offers variety and balance. Meal prep can be a helpful tool in managing your time and preventing you from cheating during a hectic day.
Step 4: Incorporate Regular Exercise
A weight loss journey is a healthy lifestyle journey so that means exercise is a MUST. Start with determining which movements you truly enjoy. Whether it’s walking through the park, bike riding, yoga or dancing! You name it, as long as your heart is pumping you are in the clear. Then schedule a workout plan that includes both cardio and strength training. That way you compliment your eating.
Step 5: Track Your Progress
Journal your successes! Journalling and monitoring your progress is key. There are plenty of apps you can use to do this. You can also create a spreadsheet or even buy a journal. Write down your weight, measurements, exercise, cardio and food. Every win gets a goal met. Every pound lost, every workout completed, every full night’s sleep gets a celebration! It really helps to keep you motivated!
Step 6: Adjust as Needed
Losing weight is a journey, and journeys aren’t necessarily straight roads. There are times you may need to stop down a path or even go a few steps back down it. Just don’t beat yourself up about it and stay focused. Figure out what needs to be fine-tuned to your specific needs. Trust the plan. Rely on your coach.
Step 7: Embrace a Support System
No need to do this weight loss stuff all by your lonesome! Rope in some family and friends to run alongside you—as a matter of fact, you may find out you share some goals. Or sign up for an expert-made weight loss program like BodySlims. Knowing you spent some money on a program might give you the kick you need to get started and stick with it this time.
Well On Your Way To Weight Loss
The journey towards weight loss will be exciting and difficult, but with enough persistence, preparation, and perspiration, you’ll cross the finish line as a new you!