We’re not going to mince words. Now is the time for action. You know it. We know it. Let’s get it done this year!
And by this we mean not only losing weight, but transforming yourself into someone who is dedicated to lifelong healthy behaviors that result in healthy weight. Don’t misinterpret that transformation as having anything to do with deprivation or lack of fun. To the contrary, it is a beginning of a life full of possibilities because you will be able to do and enjoy so much more.
But of course you need to actually start somewhere. Here are three easy ways to kick off your transformational process:
- Focus on WHY you are losing weight. There’s no rule that says once January 1st rolls around on the calendar you have to start losing weight. In order for this to truly become part of the fabric of your life, you have to define why you will be making changes. Is it to reduce the risk for other chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol? Or reduce the risk of the severity of COVID-19 and other viral infections? Do you want to feel less joint pain? Is it because you can’t keep up with your rambunctious toddler? There are many good reasons to lose weight. You need to find yours.
- Focus on WHAT you are eating. Every January, like clockwork, we see a lot more people stepping up their exercise to lose weight. While this is taking positive steps toward good health, they may be setting themselves up for disappointment in their weight loss goals if they are not also making changes to their eating behaviors. It is food and not exercise that is essential to the initial phases of weight loss. To do it right, first become aware of your daily calorie consumption and the nutritional quality of what you are eating. Then take the steps to learn how to control your calories and make healthier choices that will support your weight loss. In your efforts you will also learn that exercise actually plays a very important role in maintaining a healthy weight (listen to Dr. Pinto explain how in our Weight Loss Talk podcast). But remember, food and eating behaviors will always play first fiddle.
- Surround yourself with SUPPORT. If you set a goal to climb Mt. Everest, would you train for it by moving to the Great Plains of Kansas? No! You wouldn’t be in the right environment to develop the skills and strength you need to achieve your goals. If you’re trying to lose weight, your surroundings play just as an important role. You can set up your home and work environments to support healthy choices and minimize bad ones. You can surround yourself with people who will encourage you in your weight loss efforts. Of course not everything within your environment is within your control all of the time, but there are things you can do to minimize temptations even under those circumstances.
In 2021, let’s turn happy new year into the plural happy new years. This is your time. What are you waiting for? Let’s go!
