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I noticed that weather is getting warmer, the sun is staying out later–wait, it is almost MARCH?! I can’t believe it! New Year’s Resolutions are so easy to lose track of and I’ve realized things need to be changed right away. The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. After a “few” (I’ll use that word loosely) failed attempts of weight loss, I needed to dig deep as to why I couldn’t stay with a certain fitness routine for a sustained period of time. I’ve laid out a plan of future success for you (and me)!
- Put “you” first: After doing it for all the wrong reasons over and over, I realized I need to lose the weight for myself and only myself.
- Know your body: Another obstacle I have to personally overcome is my thyroid. The older I get, the harder it will be to lose weight since I take Synthroid for my hypothyroidism. Again, not an excuse, but make sure you know what your body is telling you. Regular checkups from your physician can be beneficial.
- Goals: Setting short-term and long-term goals is essential. Some of my goals include: to become a healthier person overall (long-term), to complete a half marathon (short-term), to qualify for the 2018 Boston Marathon (long-term), to get to my goal weight before my cruise in November (long-term), and to form and keep healthy habits (short-term) in order to keep my weight off (long-term).
- Eating Smarter: Replace your regular breakfast meal with a smoothie! You can use almond milk, regular milk, or water, a scoop or two of Viance Vitality Blend in Chocolate flavor, and in fruits like strawberries, bananas, or oranges. You can also replace a snack that you have during the day, with one of the many different protein bars available. Some of my favorites are Viance Peanut Butter and Viance Coconut Almond. Start by changing ONE thing, not everything. Make small goals in the beginning that are attainable. A common mistake is sacrificing too much all at once and than “falling off the wagon.” For example, drink a bottle of water instead of a bottle of soda; replace that bag of greasy chips as a snack with a protein bar; replace a large dinner after work with a shake. It starts with one thing, one thing can grow into bigger accomplishments and you can start celebrating smaller milestones.
- Portion Control: Sounds so simple, but who wants to put a few chips on a plate or ice cream in a bowl when taking the entire bag or container to the couch is easier. Start by making better food choices at home. Also, if you have to eat out, look for smaller portions sizes on the menu, or consider ordering a kid’s meal at the fast food stops.
- Exercise: In connection with putting “you” first, you have to have a regimented exercise program. Eating better is a huge first step, but you need to attack from all angles. I’ve always wanted to become a runner. However, to be able to actually enjoy running, I need to lose weight. (Now you see how it is easy to fail if you don’t stay committed.)
- Reward Yourself: After you have put in this hard work, give yourself a prize! Perhaps after losing your first 10 pounds, you buy an awesome new workout tank top. After 20 pounds, splurge on that cute new dress you have been dying to fit into. Since I like to travel, I like setting up a “cruise” fund: I pay myself by putting a $1 into a jar each time I workout. Then I put in $2 when I lose a pound. If weight loss isn’t your main goal, maybe a PR (personal record) for a time or distance goal you’ve been working towards Everything starts with one step in the right direction.
Most of all don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results right away. It takes time and persistence with your new fitness routine before results may be seen. I can’t wait to see the results month after month and see where I am for my November cruise! I truly believe with Viance I can jump start my weight loss and with continued use I can get to my goal weight!
What is one thing that’s helped you in your fitness routine and being able to stick to it?
