Team Up – Having a supportive partner in your weight-loss goals can help build your confidence and stamina. A partner can help challenge and encourage you, and you can do the same for them. A significant other, a good friend, or a family member can be a big help, and you’ll both feel good as you are getting healthier together.
Pump Yourself Up – Do what it takes to get yourself excited for your workout! Fill your iPod with a playlist of your favorite upbeat songs to get you moving and pumped up.
Fill Free Time – Have a free moment? Kill some free time with a quick burst of exercise. Even if you don’t have time for a full workout, a quick round of push-ups or jumping jacks will help you feel great and can get your mind off of daily stress.
Snack Healthy – While you are cutting down your intake at meals, it’s good to keep nourished with healthy snacks, especially when you are working out regularly. A quick dose of fiber or protein can give you the energy you need to keep moving!
Ditch the Top Slice of Bread – you can easily drop half the carbs from your favorite sandwich by serving it open face. It may not be quite as convenient to eat, but it’s just as tasty and even healthier for you.
Save Room for Dessert – Your mental well being is important as you endure the challenges of weightless. Reward yourself now and then with a small treat, or save room after dinner for a little dessert. It may hurt your caloric intake a bit, but it can make you feel better and keep you motivated with something to look forward to.
Go for a walk – If you can get somewhere on foot or bicycle instead of driving or taking public transportation, go for it. It might take a little extra time but it will keep you burning calories and save on gas and bus money.
Try a Class – An exercise or dance class, or a casual organized sports league can make getting exercise a lot more fun. It’s more social and goal oriented, and you won’t have to rely entirely on yourself to push forward.
Post a Picture of Yourself– Find an old picture of yourself when you were slimmer and better looking, and post it up. The fridge is a perfect place, you’ll see it every time you sneak in for that extra snack. It will remind you of what you are capable of, and encourage you even when times get tough. And it’s going to be a great feeling when you surpass how slim and healthy the younger you used to be!
Get 8 Hours of Sleep – It’s important to give your body the proper amount of rest, especially while trying to lose weight. This gives your body time to digest, and gives you the energy you are going to need to keep up with a busy exercise routine.
Reward Yourself – Set yourself up with a reward for when you finally reach your goal. Although a healthy body and mind is a great reward in itself, you deserve to treat yourself. Choose something you’ve been wanting for a while – a trip, a new gadget, that fancy new dress. This will be a constant reminder of what you are working towards, even when you feel like you are suffering through this new diet and exercise routine, there will be something extra that helps make it worth your energy in the end.