Starting a weight loss program can be wonderfully exciting at the beginning.  The first week many people lose as much as 5 lbs!  But soon after that the weight loss slows down; weekend gatherings or outings with friends make us feel left out or sabotage our efforts.  It doesn’t take long before we feel like quitting.  So how do we stay motivated?

1.  Weigh on your schedule.  I like to weigh every day.  If I don’t my weight loss suffers and my emotional fortitude does too.  Others like to weigh only once a week.  Weigh when it works for you, but do it at the same time of the day with the same clothing (or no clothing) each time.  Seeing results will keep you working.

2.  Plan treats into your menu.  There are lots of low-calorie sweets available.  Sugar free gelatin (the health conscience can make their own with pureed frozen strawberries, stevia and plain gelatin), 1 oz of dark chocolate, meringue cookies or angel food cake–are just some examples.  If you have a sweet tooth, give yourself permission to indulge once in awhile.

3.  Plan a reward for yourself when you reach small goals.  For example, you might put a dollar into a new clothing fund envelope each time you weigh less than you did the time before–or when you make the time to exercise.  Make sure your rewards are something that you really enjoy but don’ t involve food.

4.  Take before, during and after pictures.  Taking before pictures are never fun, but when you get close to your goal you will be glad you did.  Try wearing the same outfit in each picture and use a plain wall for a background so you can really see the changes that all your hard work brings.

5.  Have a motivational outfit or destination.  I once bought a tiny sundress for a couple of dollars of a clearance rack because I loved it even though it didn’t fit.  Just looking at it made me make better choices.  I also knew a gal who hung a cute bikini on her wall just because looking at it motivated her.  Or if clothes don’t float your boat, what about a destination motivation?  It could be huge by going on a cruise, or small like planning an outing at a favorite local park or lake.

I’m sure there are lots more ways to stay motviated.  What do you do?