Starting a weight loss journey can be full of excitement and motivation as you set goals, make plans and track your progress. However, as time goes on and the journey becomes more challenging, it’s common to feel demotivated. The key to success is to maintain consistency and discipline in your routine, even when motivation may be lacking. This means sticking to your diet and exercise plan, and focusing on the reasons why you began the journey. Remembering your end goal and the progress you have made can help you push through the tough times. With consistency and discipline, you will be able to see lasting results in your weight loss journey.
WHAT TO DO WHEN MOTIVATION SLOWS DOWN: STRATEGIES FOR STAYING ON TRACK
Get a workout buddy:
Achieving your goals is often easier when you have someone to share the journey with. When motivation slows, having a partner with similar goals to push and support you, can be the extra motivation you need to stay on track. At Our Lean Journey, I understand this and always ask to join group challenges with other individuals with similar goals for added support and motivation. If you’re looking for someone to join you on your weight loss journey, consider asking friends and family if they’re interested. You can also look for potential partners on online forums or groups. By working together, you can support each other and meet your goals.
Mix it up:
Variety is key to keeping things interesting and exciting on your weight loss journey. If you find yourself getting bored with your routine, try switching things up by trying new exercises, new recipes or even exploring new places to work out. This can help break the monotony and keep you motivated.
Set SMART Goals:
Setting unrealistic or overly ambitious goals can lead to demotivation and failure. Instead, make sure your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound. For example, a SMART goal would be “I want to lose weight by drinking 3 liters of water daily, cutting out alcohol and sodas, snacking on fruits and eating no more than 1500 calories daily.” By setting clear, attainable goals, you increase your chances of success and maintain motivation.
Celebrate progress:
It’s important to acknowledge and celebrate small accomplishments along the way. This can be something as simple as fitting into an old dress or losing a few inches around your waist. Recognizing and rewarding your progress will help keep you motivated on your weight loss journey.