How to stay motivated for weight loss? Motivation is the key to achieving personal and professional goals. If we are not motivated, we are more likely to spend time on things that are less important. Even under the best of circumstances, it can sometimes be challenging to stay motivated. With the end of the year near and work and personal matters piling up, it may seem like motivation is impossible. Don’t wait until the new year to find your motivation. Use these 6 helpful tips to get motivated. Know how to stay motivated to lose weight!

1. Make a plan that will stick

When we set unrealistic goals, it is almost impossible to achieve them. This can be very demotivating. In order to stay motivated set SMART goals. This stands for smart, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely. Set short- and long-term goals. Start with a long-term goal such as “I am going to lose 20 pounds by April 1st” and create short term goals that will help you meet the long-term goal.

2. Start small

Write out small steps to make the goals even more attainable. For example, exchange your dessert for a yogurt or piece of fruit that day/week. Try a new whole food for the week. Add an extra 500 steps a day. Create weekly and daily short-term goals such as “I will work out 3 times a week” or “I will eat a fruit or vegetable with every meal.” Post your plan where you will see it most often, like on the fridge or the bathroom mirror. Put your goals on your calendar by scheduling things like exercises and meals.

3. Change one behavior at a time

Unhealthy behaviors develop over the course of time. Replacing unhealthy behaviors with healthy ones requires time. You don’t have to change your whole life overnight. Focus on one goal or change at a time.  As a new healthy behavior becomes a habit, try adding more goals to strive towards the overall change you are wanting to make.

4. Involve a buddy

This could be a co-worker, friend or family member. Someone with similar goals to keep you motivated and accountable. When you involve someone in your home, this can help with grocery shopping, meal prepping and mealtimes. Find an exercise partner to hold you accountable for staying active. Get coworkers involved so that you can stay on track at work!

5. Don’t be too hard on yourself

If you don’t meet your goals, use it as an opportunity to go back to the drawing board. Think about what you can do differently to achieve your goals in the future. Accept the fact that you did not meet your goal. Don’t dwell on it, just keep working towards it.

6. Ask for support

Accept help from those who care about you. If you feel overwhelmed or unable to meet your goals on your own, consider seeking help. At TNT we can help you make realistic short- and long-term goals. The weekly coaching sessions help to hold you accountable and keep you motivated. Sign up today for a complimentary consultation!