How-to Make a Weight Loss Reward Chart

Don't you remember being extra motivated as a child to do chores so you could get gold stars? After a designated number were earned you would then get a special treat. Well, this same methodology works on adults as well; don't we all have a little 'child' in us still? When deciding on a weight loss program that is right for you, you should also decide on a score chart system that is right for you. Being motivated by rewards can help you achieve your weight loss goals and give you a new sense of success. Here's how to tailor a chart just for you.

Poster board

You likely haven't purchased some poster board since grade school, but its okay to splurge on this sturdy material once in a while. Don't stick with white if you are enchanted by the neon colors more. Remember this chart must be eye catching and pleasing so you will give it attention when you pass it on the wall.

What type of chart?

Next you need to decide what your rewards system will be. Will you place a star, sticker, or checkmark for each day you follow the diet? Do you want to do it by individual situations? For example, you resist the urge to overeat at a party or family gathering, so you should add three bonus stars for that effort.

Anyway you decide on it, you have to figure out what kind of reward you want to earn and with how many stickers, checks, or stars. Even if you can afford frivolous things now, they can work as a good motivation to earn your stars. Likewise, if you can't afford them right now, you can save up for them in the time you earn the stars. Your reward doesn't have to be very expensive, just something that will make your life more comfortable, convenient, and give you strong enough motivation to try to earn it with will-power rather than just monetary accumulation. Whatever you decide, your reward should not be food; this will help prevent any incorrect perspectives on your relationship to food from developing.

How many checks will you need to earn on your chart to gain a reward? Once you figure out the personal answers to these questions you can start making your chart accordingly. Get a yard stick to help draw straight lines and a permanent marker. You can make it an actual calendar (or buy an already made calendar for the easiest way, but it must be a decent sized one so you can mark the boxes) or you can just make a chart of actions on the top and corresponding boxes underneath. Find a way that works best for you visually and go for it.

Purpose

Along with rewarding yourself for your successes, this handy chart will serve as a daily reminder. Weight loss doesn't have to be no-fun. Just remind yourself of the health benefits you are working for as well as the material rewards you are earning when you see the chart. Because it is a daily decision to follow a weight loss plan, you should refresh your mind of your goals on a daily basis as well.

The greater majority of us have to be externally motivated to stick with goals we have internally. Although we commend those that have no need for charts, the rest of us can benefit from them. If you don't know whether this will work for you, than there is only one way to find out for sure; try it out for a 6-week period and see if any improvement is made in your habits, motivation, or perspective. If it doesn't seem to work any better than going it without the chart, than forget it; only do what will help.