by Kimberlee F Ferrell

Created on: August 11, 2008

Trying to lose weight? Almost everyone, at one point in their lives, has decided to try to lose a few pounds. The dieting yo-yo that follows will inevitably dishearten the strongest willed among us. How do you build up the excitement to lose weight, and how do you keep the excitement going?

Becoming and staying motivated while dieting is a crucial element of weight loss. Without knowing the reasons behind your diet, it's all too easy to say "one more cookie won't hurt." Discover why you want to lose weight. Are you trying to fit in an old pair of jeans? Perhaps you want to achieve a healthy weight so you can keep up with your kids, or increase your lifespan. Make a list of your top motivators, and place it firmly on your fridge. The next time the munchies strike, you'll remember why you're working so hard toward your weight loss goal. Review your list once a week, to keep the motivation fresh in your mind. Some people prefer making a motivational journal, with inspiring pictures, quotes, and articles to keep their willpower strong.

Rewards are a critical motivator to weight loss as well. Both small and large rewards throughout your weight loss journey will keep you going. For example, when you've reached your target weight, you may choose to celebrate by taking a vacation you've always wanted. Along the way, you may need to say to yourself "after I exercise for thirty minutes, I can relax in a soothing bubble bath." Determine what rewards will keep you on the weight loss path, and scatter them freely throughout your life. A note of caution: don't let food be one of your rewards. This is a slippery slope that can backfire, causing you to gain more weight.

Visualization is another great way to stay excited while losing weight. Whenever you feel yourself backpedaling, take a moment to see yourself thirty pounds lighter. What activities will you be able to enjoy once you've shed your excess weight? How much more energy will you have? How will your friends and family react to the new you? Answer these questions, and you will be able to see yourself happy and refreshed because of a healthier new you.

Weight loss is not a race to be won, but an adventure to be lived. Keeping your excitement and moment up is not always easy, but it is always worth the effort. Remember your motivations, see yourself thin, and reward your progress frequently. These little tricks will keep your mood boosted, and your excitement increased. Weight loss is often a necessity, but doesn't need to be dull. Watch as your spirit soars and the scale plummets over time, and enjoy the new you.

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