Parenting Tips: Successful Weight Loss Resolutions for 2011

Weight loss resolutions that many parents make for New Years have the tendency to be tossed to the wayside fairly soon after the New Year begins. It seems that just trying to get the kids where they need to be, as well as the variety of responsibilities we have as parents seems all we can accomplish. Our heads always seem to be buzzing with the family's needs.

Some of the reasons for the disconnect may be that we don't have effective tools in place for ourselves to keep motivated staying on track with exercising and new lifestyle changes to be successful. In the November 2010 issue of Parenting School Years, some suggestions to help us reverse this process may be helpful.

Think of a Motivating Mantra

If you have a personal slogan or other phrase that seems to keep you feeling ready to go and get things done, repeat this to yourself over and over on days that you aren't feeling as though you can get the energy to accomplish a workout . This method personally works for me in the morning when it's colder and I want to stay in rather than gear up and get myself out the door. I'll simply tell myself "your well being depends on it".

Think of Your Kids

What kid needs a mom that's out of shape? Moms need to be energetic, motivated and ready for whatever fire they need to put out, and as a mom of 8 myself, I'm rarely without a fire that needs to be extinguished. As difficult as that may be at times, we know what our kids mean to us, which brings me to my point. They can help to motivate us. Keeping them in mind when we feel like skipping our workout may be the most effective tool we have as parents to stay in shape.

Take the Kids With You

What could be more motivation than taking your kids along on your run, or other work out? I did this quite often and as a result, my first 3 girls are all cross country runners. It got to the point that they looked forward to our runs and I did as well. It was not only a great way to help me get out the door for a run, it was quality time spent with my children doing something we all were benefitting from.

New Workout Attire

Get yourself fresh and new outfits for your workouts. As a parent we're always running around for our family members. It's easy to forget about keeping ourselves looking good. Start by shopping at some sports stores with a good variety of the latest sportswear looks. Then take it further by getting yourself some. Hey, anything to help you feel the push to workout right? Plus, you get some new clothes out of the deal!

Successful weight loss resolutions for 2011 can only happen if you stay focused and motivated. Give these suggestions a try to help you reach your goals for a thin and healthy you!