If you have set a goal to lose weight in 2010, and are starting or re-starting a diet and/or fitness plan, there’s one crucial thing you can do to significantly increase your chances for success.  It’s simple, effective, and quick; however it’s likely that you’ve never done it before now. If you don’t want to be one of those people who lose steam after a few weeks of motivation, learn how to keep yourself focused and motivated once the newness wears off. 

One crucial way to do this is to keep your reasons for losing weight front and center in your mind. You may be thinking, how will I ever forget why I wanted to do this?  But you’d be surprised how easily we forget when there’s tempting food around. Then, sabotaging thoughts jump in – have you ever had any of these?

• I don’t think dieting is worth it
• This is too hard
• I don’t think I really want to do this

Without a clear way to counter these sabotaging thoughts, it is likely that at some point you will give up on your goal, stray from your diet, and stop losing weight. So, to combat sabotaging thoughts in difficult circumstances, start right now by making a list of all the reasons why you want to lose weight. Here are the reasons I used in my own weight loss:

1.     I’ll feel better physically.

2.     I’ll look better.

3.     I’ll enjoy shopping for clothes.

4.     I’ll have more energy.

5.     I’ll be able to wear more stylish clothes.

6.     I’ll  do more things (like go to the beach).

7.     I’ll be happier when I look in the mirror.

8.     I’ll live longer.

9.     I’ll be more fit.

10.  I’ll enjoy sex more.

11.  I’ll be in better health.

12.  I’ll feel more in control.

13.  I’ll increase my self esteem.

14.  I’ll be able to wear a smaller size.

You can use some of mine, and be sure to add your own.  What you want is a compelling list of your reasons, in order of priority to you. 

Then, transfer this to a piece of paper or index card  that you carry with you at all times. Commit to reading your list at least 2 times every day, and anytime you find yourself struggling with sticking to your plan.  I read my list before each meal,so it was fresh in my mind every time I ate. I carried my list with me to parties and friends’ houses to use prior to eating.  There were many times when the only reason I didn’t over-indulge was the strength I gained from reading my list.  It helped me say to myself, “As much as I want to eat this right now, losing weight is more important to me.” 

Help yourself to stick to what’s important to you instead of beating yourself up when you don’t.