By: Bridgette Wilson
In today’s society, there is no shortage of information on health awareness and let’s not forget all the technical devices and apps that remind us of our target health goals. However, with all the modern wellness amenities, if we don’t stick with a healthy mindset, we won’t be successful in managing any aspect of our health and well-being. Even though I had reached my weight loss goal, I knew that one day I would need to find a way to take what I have learned and translate it into my everyday life. What I have found is that any long-term successful change comes from a changed mindset. After years of see-sawing up and down the scale, I finally realized one very important concept that I had missed during my numerous weight loss attempts. I had never really took the time to develop a plan on how to transition from weight loss into weight management. I realized the habits I developed to lose the weight must be the same habits that I need to maintain for a lifetime.
My initial step in the process was to make myself accountable. So, I made a PACT (commitment) to myself to stay on course.
- PLAN – Persistence and focus
- ACTION – Remove the “limiting factors”
- COMMITMENT – Do it for YOU
- TENACITY – Don’t give up!
I created a plan and posted it in a room so that I could see it and persistently remind myself to stay focused. Next, I had to put my plan into action by removing any obstacles or excuses that limited my focus and drive. Finally, I rewarded myself with non-food items when I kept my commitment to be tenacious and not give up on the process of change. After ten years of weight management success, I discovered my changed mindset was truly the missing key and how effective that one change would not only be successful for my weight loss, but also any other long-term goals I may have in mind.
To learn more, here are five tips from the American Psychological Association to help you make lasting, positive lifestyle and behavior changes: http://www.apa.org/helpcenter/lifestyle-changes.aspx