by Karen Meeker

Created on: April 24, 2007   Last Updated: April 30, 2007

Cake, pizza, chocolate and ice cream are all things that my mind tells me will make me happy. Do they actually make me happy or better my life in the long term? The answer to that is a definitive no, but that doesn't stop me from thinking about and craving these things on a moment's notice. Why does our mind play these games with us? One minute we are completely rational and the next, we are unable to stop thinking about those high calorie and healthy hurting foods.

It is important when we make a decision to lose weight that we are into it 100%. A big part of that is getting our mindset in the right place. In order to do this, we must try a few strategies.

One strategy that works well for me is realizing that no food is completely off limits. If I understand that at any moment I could have that piece of chocolate if I wanted it, it doesn't seem so urgent that I have it right this minute. It also reminds me that when I do eat it, I can eat a smaller portion because I will be having it again soon. Deprivation leads to making yourself crazy, so be sure to think about foods in moderation instead of non-existent.

Another strategy that helps my mindset when trying to lose weight is to be sure and focus on the small improvements in myself. Instead of waiting to lost 100 pounds before rewarding myself, I try to give myself a little something every 5 or so pounds. A reward can be just taking a little alone time and reading a good book, but I try to connect it with the accomplishments that I have made.

One of the best things you can do when trying to improve your mindset is making sure those around you are supportive. Surrounding yourself with personal cheerleaders can make you just plain feel better. No one that is trying to accomplish something as important as weight loss wants to deal with negative people all the time. Get others involved and let them know you need their support. It will help !

Weight loss is a big part mindset. If you want to do it well and want to do it permanently try some of these tips. It might surprise you just how easy it is when your mind agrees with the rest of you.

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