Tips on How to Make a Myspace Page a Weight Loss Tool

Combine a fun social atmosphere with support, blogging tools, and constant motivation and you've created a very effective method of shedding pounds. Many dieters are taking advantage of the weight loss support networks that can be created on Myspace to do just that. But how can you turn a blog into a dieting aid? Take a look at the following tips on how to make a Myspace page a weight loss tool for a few quick, simple, step-by-step ideas.

Tip #1: Start by selecting a background that inspires you. Choose a Myspace layout with a theme that reminds you of why you are losing the weight. Whether it's a picture of an exotic locale (think summer vacation!) or a little black dress, choose something that will conjure up images of what you really want. While a traditional "weight loss" layout is fine, you may find it more effective to choose a reminder of what you hope to achieve in addition to just losing pounds.

Tip #2: Set up a weight loss ticker. A weight loss ticker is literally a digital tracker of your progress. It displays your starting point, your ending goal, and where you are at present. You can add the code to your ticker to the "about me" section of your profile when you edit, and simply click on the ticker itself when it's time to update your weight (it will likely contain a link that takes you to your update page). Simply enter "weight loss ticker" into a search engine for several easy creation options.

Tip #3: Set up a countdown for an event. Swimsuit season, high school reunions, Valentine's Day...they all have their own imaginary clock somewhere that is just ticking down the seconds until they arrive. Don't let your big event sneak up on you. Enter "Myspace countdown" into a search engine to find sites that will help you quickly create a digital clock that counts down the seconds until your designated date. It will serve as a constant reminder that every day counts. Again, enter the code given into the "about me" section of your profile.

Tip #4: Enter your critical data into the "general info" section of your profile. In this section, consider entering your height, starting weight, goal weight, weight loss plan, dieting concerns, and motivation. At the very least, enter your motivation, as a reminder of why you are doing this, that can be viewed regularly.

Tip #5: Make your blog a diet diary. Your blog is where you'll enter your food and activity logs, your struggles, and your successes. Most importantly, this is where you'll both vent and then pick yourself back up again. Focus on what needs to be worked on as you go, and let your blog serve as a reminder that a diet is an ongoing process with plenty of ups and downs along the way.

Tip #6: Update your "status" and "mood" regularly. Keeping track of moods is key to easing stress and recognizing cravings. Use the "status" and "mood" tools of Myspace to let others know how you are coping and to let off a little steam.

Tip #7: Add weight loss buddies. Now that you are set up, you'll need a good support group. Keep in mind that a weight loss profile should be separate from a regular profile, and only those who can help you reach your goals should be invited to take part in it. Add only individuals who are dieting with you, or those who are healthy influences.

Tip #8: Consider uploading before and after pics. It may be a good idea to place a picture of yourself in your profile's photo album to have a reference as you go. Update regularly, such as after every fifteen pounds, so that the progress can motivate you!

Tip #9: Finally, update your security settings carefully (especially if uploading progress photos). You can place limits on who can see what in your profile in order to keep your dieting victories and woes limited to the eyes of only those you pre-approve. You can not only make your profile private, but you can also change your name, birthday, and other vital information to keep nosy visitors away. You can even hand select who can view your photos from within your friends list. Do what makes you comfortable, and guard what you want kept private.

When your Myspace weight loss profile page is up and running, start letting friends know what your goals are. You may even find a few who are willing to jump on board with you and shed a few pounds themselves.