3 Big Mistakes that Prevent Weight Loss

So you've just ordered the latest and greatest weight loss system and you convinced that this particular plan is going to do it for you this time. It's great that you are taking steps to lose weight and starting down the road to better health. But beware of weight loss programs or diet plans that over-promise and under-deliver.

Remember, those so-called weight loss gurus are putting that stuff on the market for a reason. Sure, I really believe that most of them honestly desire to help folks lose weight. But there are quite a few of these plans that are simply put out there to feed on people's fears and promise the skinny dream. It's great that you want to lose weight so don't blow your weight loss plan by making some of these common mistakes.

If You Exercise, You're Going to Lose Weight

I know, it's not what everyone wants to hear, but it is a simple and basic truth of weight loss. Exercise gets the metabolism going faster and that means you're going to burn more calories and lose more weight. It's going to be hard to rely on just dietary changes for optimal weight loss.

The key to exercise is finding something that is enjoyable. something you can look forward to every time you do it. If you like the outdoors, do some biking, or find a favorite spot in a local wilderness park and hike for an hour or two. If you prefer indoor exercise, try joining a fitness club, swimming, or even a treadmill attached to a TV.

Successful Weight Loss Means Setting Goals

No one wanting to end up at a certain destination starts out on a journey without a map or some sort of directions. This journey may also heave a scheduled arrival. The point is, if you want to end up as a person who weighs less in a year, then you need a map that will get you there.

Just like stops along the way of a typical cross-country trip indicate progress, a weight loss journey needs goals in order to show the progression of weight lost over time. Set a goal to lose 25 pounds in the first week and you'll end up frustrated. That amount of weight loss is not attainable for most folks. Instead, set smaller, more easily reachable goals like losing five pounds in the first week. Seeing that you're progressing toward your ultimate destination is a great source of encouragement.

Stay Away From the Drive Thru Window

Do I even have to mention this? Restaurants have made it so easy to get their food, you don't even have to get out of the car and walk in to eat. We know there are no magical powers in a drive thru window that cause people to eat too much of the wrong food and put on weight. But according to WebMD.com, studies do show that folks who ate fast food more than twice week gained about 10 pounds more than those who ate fast food less than once a week.

Let's be real here, a drive thru window is no place for a person trying to lose weight. Just avoid them altogether. Yes, healthy food can be ordered at a drive thru window, but there are always the temptations of all that "other" food. Not to mention that cute guy or gal asking politely if you want fries with that salad. Bottom line: the drive thru is no place for you if you're trying to lose weight.

It;s time to start being accountable for yourself. Take some personal responsibility, consult a professional dietitian or nutritionist, make a plan for losing weight, and just do it. It's a pretty simple process but one of the hardest things for some people to accomplish. Start exercising, set some weight loss goals, and by all means do not go near a drive thru window at a fast food restaurant. You can do it, get started today and look forward to a healthier tomorrow.

Sources:

WebMD.com; 12 Diet Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
MayoClinic.com; Weight Loss: Diet Plans