Preparing yourself mentally
Before taking steps to lose weight, you may find it helpful to prepare yourself mentally and motivate yourself by thinking about the benefits. Consider the possible challenges it will pose and the changes you will need to make to your current lifestyle.
Print off this table and tick which of the following are important to you:
| Losing weight could: |
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change my old body shape and help me get into my old clothes or go shopping for new ones |
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take the weight off my joints so I don't have pain |
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improve my diabetes control and help prevent some of the complications of diabetes |
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Why not add some of your own benefits here?
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So what is stopping you?
Many things can get in the way of losing weight. Here are how other people have dealt with some common barriers:
"I didn't have the time to cook meals...
By shopping in advance and pre-planning the week's meals, I found I did not have to think about what I was going to cook on the way home and did not have to shop on a daily basis which all takes time. I also bought a cookbook for quick family meals to give me ideas."
"I thought I couldn't eat healthily on a budget...
My dietitian told me that canned and frozen fruit and vegetables are just as good for me as fresh. So now I only buy fresh fruit and vegetables that are in season or on special offer as the canned and frozen options are a lot cheaper."
"I had tried diets before but I never lost weight...
I decided to find out why they weren't working for me. I now understand what triggers me to eat and keep motivated by reminding myself of the benefits of losing weight. If for instance I want to eat because I'm bored or stressed, I choose to go for a walk instead. I have now reached my goal weight."
Information updated December 2008