Weight loss is never easy, but for some people, it can feel impossible. No matter how hard they try or what methods they use it seems that progress is slow to non-existent and it can be soul-destroying.
If that sounds all too familiar, then it is important that you do not despair. It is possible to lose weight, and you can do it, but you might need to try something different instead.
With all that in mind, below are some tips on what to do when weight loss seems impossible.
First Things First: Acknowledge the Struggle
Let’s get real – losing weight isn’t a walk in the park (though technically, walking in the park helps). It’s more like a rollercoaster ride with ups, downs, and the occasional loop-the-loop. Acknowledge that it’s tough. Self-compassion is key. Beating yourself up is about as useful as a chocolate teapot.
Educate Yourself: Knowledge is Power
You are going to want to learn about nutrition and exercise if you want to get your weight seriously under control. Understanding the ‘why’ behind what you’re doing can be a huge motivator in your success, as well as the perfect tool to help you achieve it. The more you know, the better choices you’ll make overall, so even if you do choose the chips or the chocolate on occasion, you will know what that means for your diet and you will be able to balance it out with a salad or dinner or a lighter day tomorrow, and that is what will see you succeed in the long term.
Rethink Your Diet: It’s Not All Kale and Sadness
Now, about your diet. If the word ‘diet’ makes you think of rabbit food and sadness, we need to chat. Healthy eating isn’t just about kale smoothies and quinoa salads. It’s about finding a balance. Think color – the more vibrant fruits and veggies on your plate, the better. And no, Skittles don’t count as colorful fruit. You don’t have to eat nothing but salad and soup, but if your plate is half veggies, then it won’t be such a big deal if the rest is made up of mashed potatoes and marinated steak in abundance.
Exercise: Find Your Groove
When it comes to exercise, it will be really helpful to your efforts if you are able to find something you actually enjoy doing. If the thought of running makes you want to hide under the bed, don’t do it. Maybe you’re a Zumba person, or perhaps you find your zen in yoga. Exercise shouldn’t be torture; it should be something that makes you feel good (and a bit sweaty). After all, if it feels good, you’ll do it often.
The Buddy System: Misery Loves Company
Find a weight loss buddy. It’s like having a partner in crime, but instead of robbing banks, you’re raiding the salad bar together. Having someone to share the journey with makes it less daunting and a lot more fun.
Hydration Station: Drink Up!
Drink water. And then drink some more. Sometimes our bodies confuse thirst with hunger. Plus, staying hydrated is like giving your body a mini spa treatment from the inside out.
Mindful Eating: It’s a Thing
Eat mindfully. This means actually paying attention to what you’re eating instead of mindlessly munching while binge-watching your favorite series. It’s about savoring each bite and listening to your body. Trust me, your body has a lot to say.
Sleep: The Secret Weapon
Sleep is your secret weight loss weapon. Lack of sleep can mess with your hormones and lead to weight gain. It’s like trying to lose weight with one hand tied behind your back. Aim for 7-9 hours of good quality shut-eye.
Weight Loss Surgery: A Viable Option
Now, let’s touch on weight loss surgery (which you can read about at carlsbadweightloss.com). It’s not for everyone, but it can be a lifesaver for some. Think of it as a tool, not a magic wand. It requires commitment and lifestyle changes, but it can be a stepping stone to a healthier you.
Mental Health Check
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health when it comes to weight loss. Stress, anxiety, and depression can all be barriers. Don’t be afraid to seek help if you need it. A healthy mind leads to a healthy body.
The Power of Small Changes
Remember, small changes can lead to big results. Swap the elevator for the stairs, switch to whole grains, add an extra portion of veggies to your meals. It’s like climbing a mountain – one step at a time.
Set Realistic Goals
When you are losing weight, you are probably thinking about the end goal when you are 30, 50, maybe even a hundred pounds lighter but those numbers can seem difficult to achieve and can leave you losing motivation fast. It’s far better to set realistic goals. Losing two pounds a week sounds less daunting than 50 pounds in a year. And celebrate your milestones – you’ve earned it!
Don’t Obsess Over the Scale
The scale is not the be-all and end-all of your weight loss journey. At the end of the day, it’s just a number. Focus on how you feel – more energy, better sleep, clothes fitting differently. These are the real victories that will spur you on to keep working towards your goals, and anyway just because the scale says you’re two pounds lighter this week, doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve lost fat – it could be water weight you’ve shed. Not only that but if the scale says you’re two pounds heavier, it doesn’t mean you’ve gained fat – you could have built two pounds of solid muscle in the gym. The big picture really is where it’s at!
Treat Yourself (Responsibly)
Just because you’re busy losing weight doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself every now and then. A little bit of what you fancy does you good. Just don’t let a treat turn into a week-long binge. It’s all about balance, not deprivation. Having one ice cream every month or a bag of chips at the weekend won’t stop you losing weight and it could give you just enough satisfaction that you find staying on the wagon so much easier.
Don’t Fall for Fad Diets
Beware of fad diets at all costs. After all, as the saying goes, f it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. There’s no secret pill or potion that will help you to shed that excess fat without putting in the effort. At the end of the day, it’s about hard work, dedication, and a whole lot of veggies.
The Power of Positive Thinking
Your mindset can make or break your weight loss journey. That is why it is so important you make every effort possible to focus on the positives. Celebrate every little win, whether it’s losing a pound in a week or two inches off your waist. Do what you can to replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations, and it will give your mind the pep talk it needs to keep in the game and keep you on the right track – just you wait and see!
Losing weight is always going to be a challenge, but no matter how much weight you have to lose or how hard you have found it in the past, it is possible to conquer the beast and bet back to the best possible physical version of yourself. Yes, it may take time, and it will definitely take effort and change on your part, but when you’e ready, you can do it.
