You think you are doing everything right: watching what you eat, working out, and still the weight is not coming off.  Frustrated? Here are 3 reasons you may not be losing weight:

1.     You underestimate how much you are eating. Most people are horrible at estimating how many calories they consume. In one USDA study, more than 80 percent of women underestimated their daily food intake by a whopping 700 calories! Part of the problem is visual: Most people don't have a clue about what a true portion looks like.

The Fix– start measuring portions. While losing weight I learned to eat using only small, salad plates which I still use to this day.

2.     You eat mindlessly. Eating in front of the TV, or nibbling on food while cooking can really add up calories. Each mindless nibble averages about 25 calories – 1 pound in a month!

The Fix- start using a food journal, logging everything you put into your mouth.  Dieters who use a food journal are MUCH more likely to think before they eat.  Also, only eat while sitting down. You are much less likely to eat mindlessly if you are sitting down rather than standing in your kitchen.

3.     You are stressed out or anxious about your life. When the body is under constant stress,it produces cortisol, the stress hormone, which causes weight to be gained/held onto.  I have noticed this in my own life, when nothing changes but my state of mind and I gain 3-5 lbs.

The Fix– focus on learning to relax and let go. One excellent way to do this is to question your thoughts through the simpleprocess of inquiry, which is overviewed on my website. This process allows youto let go of harmful and negative thoughts once and for all, regardless of howthey were formed or where they come from.