How to Lose Weight and Take Control of Your Life and Health

Isn't it time for you to make the decision to take control of your health? Time to start getting serious about losing those extra pounds and finally getting in shape? It's only going to get worse unless you decide that today is the day you will take control of your future. It's going to be challenging, but I know you can do it! Here are the first steps...

1) Decide. First, decide if you're really going to commit to a plan this time. Forget about past failures and focus on what's ahead. You're going to need laser focus and determination to get where you need to be.

2) Daily Success Planning. At the end of the day when you're getting ready for bed, get a pad and pencil, write down what you're going to eat the next day, what exercise you will do. You can even put your meals together for the next day. The next day when you wake up, you've already planned for what you will eat and what you'll do for exercise. It's a great way to start the day.

3) Diet Plan. You need to be realistic here. Don't think doing Slim Fast 3 or 4 times a day is going to get you where you need to be. And forget about starving yourself. That only leads to binging and even more weight gain by the time it's all over. Consult with a dietitian and choose a plan that is reasonable. For example, the "Flat Belly Diet" adds nuts and dark chocolate to a well-balanced meal. Find a diet that is meets nutritional needs and cuts calories.

4) Take Time to Weigh. No, not yourself. Take great care in weighing and measuring food portions. Don't cheat, not even a little. Remember, you're committed to a goal.

5) Ignore the Scale. The scale is really a bad measure of how your diet is working. Look for the small signals that you're losing weight and getting in shape. Notice a bit less snuggness in those pants? Rings fit a bit looser? Easier to get up those stairs now? These are the signs of success!

6) Start Small. Hey, mighty oaks sprout from tiny acorns, right? The same goes for your exercise program. Start with small things like a few minutes on the elliptical or treadmill, a walk around the block, maybe a leisurely lap or two in the pool. Then, as you get in better shape, step it up. Soon, you'll be right up there with the Olympic athletes in training. OK, so that's abit much. But soon you may actually enjoy the workout, even look forward to it. And I know you're gonna love the way your body looks!

For tips on how to control weight after 40, click here. If you want to change the way you look at exercise, click here.

Be sure to check with your doctor or nutritionist if you have any questions concerning weight loss techniques or diets. Consult with your doctor or health care professional before beginning any diet or exercise program.