If you have ever struggled with losing weight, then you may have come to the conclusion that it is virtually impossible to do so. The reality is that it doesn’t have to be all that hard. On the other hand, if you think that taking off those extra pounds is a quick and easy process that doesn’t require any effort on your part, then you are going to be let down. If you’re sincere about weight loss and you’re ready to follow a sensible eating plan, get moving and changing your attitude, you will lose weight more quickly.

Sometimes it seems as though diet and weight loss plans are a regular part of our lives; coming and going more often than we would like to admit. These are often fad diets that we latch on to in the hopes of finally finding the one that “really works”. However, it’s not a good idea to start any diet before you fully understand. The good news is that there are diet programs that have stood the test of time, and have been proven to work. Another thing that you may want to consider is that weight loss is not a one-time physical act. Instead, it’s a lifestyle change that you incorporate into your life.

Let’s be clear, there are many reasons why people don’t stick to weight loss programs, but lack of motivation usually isn’t one of them. What’s needed are some basic ways of increasing the odds of success. Here are some things you can do to put the odds in your favor.

1. Maintain your focus – A lot has been said about willpower and its lack of effectiveness. The problem with willpower is that it sets up the wrong mindset. When you think about it, you only need willpower when you are feeling deprived. Once you start thinking about things you can’t have, or how hard it all is, you are setting yourself up for failure. You need something better, and that’s where focus comes in. It’s the opposite of willpower. Focus on why you want to lose weight, what your ultimate goal is, and how you will feel once you reach your target weight. When you’re focused, you are thinking about the positive aspects of your weight loss plan, and that’s a good thing.

2. Get moving – Some people like to call this exercise, but at the same time, that word has negative connotations for a lot of people. Regardless of what you call it, you need to get moving if you want to increase your chances of success. The key is to participate in activities that you enjoy. This could be going for a walk, bowling, dancing, gardening, or playing frisbee. Just remember that any extra activity equals extra calories burned.

3. Effort – Yes, weight loss takes effort. There is no way around it. Fortunately, the more effort you put in, the more weight you will lose.

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