2. Set steps. Now that you have your goal and your time frame, it is time to start setting the ground work for how you are going to accomplish it. It is really hard to get motivated to fold 30 loads of laundry, but if you fold them one at a time, and each time you do a load, it does not seem as overwhelming. The same applies to weight loss. So, set manageable, not overwhelming steps. One pound a week, which you will do by cutting out soda, processed and refined foods, and by adding more fruits and vegetables. Then on top of the one pound a week you will lose an additional three pounds a month by adding in an exercise routine, and eating smaller portions, and more frequently. This seems manageable. You set goals, steps to achieve them, and suddenly what seemed impossible is possible, and the way to make it possible is staring you right in the face. That will get you motivated.
3. Post reminders. Now you are motivated, but how do you stay that way? Well, one of the best ways to stay motivated is to post little reminders for yourself so that when temptation hits, you have a positive reminder looking you in the face. So, write your goals on a sticky note, and put it where you will see it often. Put one on your fridge, put one on your cupboard where you keep snacks, put one on the bathroom mirror. Then, next time you go to the fridge for a soda or beer, you will see your goals, and that cutting those things out is how you will reach them, and you can make a choice that makes you proud of yourself. Grabbing the soda or beer can be habitual. So, the only way to get out of that habit and stay motivated is to start establishing new habits. Reminders are a great way to do this.
4. Do not deprive yourself. One of the reasons most people struggle with sticking to a motivational plan is that they deprive themselves. They see others around them enjoying the birthday cake, or the beer at the game, and they lose their motivation because it becomes a punishment, not a reward. So, while you should never over indulge, if you are feeling left out, take a bite, take a swig, but then go get your self a water bottle, and a bag of rice cakes. You won't feel as left out as you think.
5. Add in some visuals. Put those pants you want to fit into up on the wall, or that swim suit. Visual reminders help you stay motivated.
6. Reward your efforts. When you work hard toward something, you want people to notice, and you want to be rewarded for that hard work. So, in setting your steps and small goals, incorporate in some rewards that will keep you going. Rewarding yourself for your work will help you stay motivated. Buy yourself a little something new, go for a long weekend get a way, or take off work a few hours early. Reward yourself.