The most common complaint I ever receive from a client is that they can’t get motivated – and on top of that simply don’t have the willpower to make the changes necessary for long lasting and effective weight loss.
So here’s a quick exercise for you.
Make a list of as many things that you can think of that will happen if you DON’T lose weight. I’m not talking here just about
- “I’ll get fatter”
- “I may develop diabetes”
- “I’ll struggle to fit into my favourite chair”
No, I’m talking about the serious and unbearable changes that will occur if you continue the way you are
- the embarrassment you’re causing your friends/kids/grandkids now and in the future
- your likelihood of a serious illness or death through a stroke or heart attack within say ten years
- not being able to travel because you are uncomfortable, or even don’t fit into, an airline or car seat
- having people talk about and laugh at you as you wobble and struggle down the street
Highlight the one that makes you feel the worst, the most important one.
And if you think these things won’t happen to you – don’t kid yourself – global obesity has doubled since 1980 according to the World Heath Organization.
And then, write a list of all the opposite, immediate, amazing and massive changes that will happen because you take responsibility for your weight loss right here and now.
Things like…
- having people admire and compliment you on the way you look
- going shopping and finding you can take your pick of any normal size clothes you want
- being able to play in the park with your friends/kids/grandkids
- being able to eat what you want, when you want and how you want knowing that you are able to stop whenever you want
- walk up the stairs without thinking you’re going to die at the top!
Again, highlight the most important one.
This exercise will help you define your goal, and your problem, as discussed in last week’s post. It will also clarify what your motivation is, and how you can use it to your best advantage.
In fact, why don’t you share some of your responses with me privately, or even publicly on my Facebook site, so that I can support you in your weight loss journey? A problem shared is a problem halved, and a declaration of either the good or the bad elements of change will help encourage you to achieve them, and may even inspire others too.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Love and light,
Elizabeth