Why you should set weight loss goals

When you start a weight loss program, it can be an intimidating process. Most people realize that the amount of weight they want to lose is quite high and the idea of ​​the amount of time it will take is daunting. For this reason, many people opt for expensive and unrealistic ways to lose weight, such as surgery, diet pills, etc.

It is vitally important that before you begin a weight loss journey, you set short and long term goals for yourself and then reward yourself for reaching these goals. Let’s take an in-depth look at this process.

Your first step should be to set a long-term goal for the amount of weight you want to lose. It can be any amount, but don’t set a time limit for your long-term goal.

Second, it’s time to break down the ultimate goal into smaller goals called short-term goals. Typically, with a weight loss program, you’ll want to break your weight loss down into weeks and/or months. For example, you might want to set a goal of 2 pounds a week or 8 pounds a month.

It is very important to be realistic with your short-term goals. Many people set goals that are impossible to achieve and then get discouraged and give up when they don’t achieve them. For weight loss, a realistic goal is 1 to 2 pounds per week. It may not sound like much, but think about it; In a year you will have lost over 100 pounds and you will be much more likely to keep it off because it has been done the right way. You can also set goals like exercising 5 days a week or drinking 8 glasses of water a day.

After setting goals, it is also extremely important to provide rewards when goals are met. The rewards for your long-term success should be something quite extravagant or something you’ve always wanted to do, like a cruise, a new piece of jewelry, etc. Keep in mind that depending on your body size, it can take over a year to reach your goal, so you should enjoy your reward when it finally materializes.

As for the short-term goals, they should be smaller since they will be claimed more frequently. Some examples of short-term rewards might be a small portion of your favorite food, a movie, a massage, etc.

You’ll find that it’s much easier to stay on track with your weight loss routine if you’ve set achievable goals and enjoy the rewards of success. Give it a try!