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What Can I Do to Get Motivated to Lose Weight?

Getting started is the hardest part of losing weight. There are some steps you can take to help you get motivated, not only to lose weight, but to help you keep it off. Creating a realistic plan that you can stick to, setting goals and getting help to stay on track will give you the winning strategy you need.

  1. See Your Doctor

    • Make an appointment to see your doctor before beginning any diet or exercise program. Your doctor can help you determine your BMI (body mass index), which will show what your ideal weight range should be. Ask about the different types of diet plans that he would recommend for you. Find out what kinds of exercise he would advise. Having your doctor give you choices you then can select from will lead you to a diet and exercise program that will not only be healthy, but most enjoyable for you.

    Set a Goal

    • Setting goals will assist you in losing pounds. You know from talking to your doctor what your goal weight should be; now you need to decide how long you want to take to take it off. Never set an overly ambitious goal. Remember, you didn't put the weight on overnight, and you cannot take it off overnight. For example, if you need to lose 25 pounds, perhaps you might decide to start by losing five pounds a month.

      Many people find it helpful to create visual aids of their goals, such as a chart that tracks weight loss. This can be done on old-fashioned graph paper or a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet.

    Become Accountable

    • Having another person keeping an eye on your progress will make you think twice about straying from your plan to lose weight. Do you have a friend who is also serious about losing extra pounds? Agree to become "accountability partners." Check in with each other regularly to see each other's status and offer encouragement. Set a day and time every week to "weigh in." Real accountability requires real data.

      Accountability groups such as TOPS, or Taking Off Pounds Sensibly, are designed to help people drop the pounds by becoming part of a support group. Members all have the same struggle, and therefore do not judge one another, but act as encouragers and cheerleaders. If you have an off week, having others to help you get back on track is invaluable. In order for this method to be of assistance, though, make a commitment to consistently attend group meetings.

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