Start Small and Build Momentum

Does the thought of getting to your goal weight seem overwhelming?  I know when I look at the weight I want to lose, it seems impossible.  I have all the thoughts…you won’t be able to lose it all, you’ll gain everything back, this is a waste of time, just forget it.  It seems like an insurmountable task.   It’s completely overwhelming.

But overwhelm is an indulgent emotion.  When we wallow in overwhelm, nothing gets done.  Our brain tells us it’s too hard.  Our brain provides evidence that we won’t succeed based on past experiences.  Our brain will create every excuse so we never start.

There’s NOTHING overwhelming though, about losing 2 lbs. and maintaining it for a couple of weeks.

I KNOW I can lose 2 lbs.  I’ve done it lots of times.  My brain has ample evidence that I can do it.  I can visualize it. I know exactly what to do to lose 2 little pounds.  I need to make a few minor changes to lose that weight.  Increase my water intake, leave a couple of bites on my plate, or choose a salad for lunch are possible tweaks to my routine that would get that weight off.

Small successes build momentum.  

Picture this, you’ve lost the two pounds and maintained it.  It wasn’t that hard.  You made a few minor changes to your eating and lost that weight.  Do it again! Set that goal again, lose another two pounds and maintain it.  Your brain is learning this success strategy.  Both momentum and motivation build. Do it a third time. 

This is the easiest way to get those first ten pounds off, two pounds at a time.  Picture yourself ten pounds lighter. How are you feeling?  Motivated? Confident? Are you ready to set your goal to three pounds?

In the beginning don’t be in overwhelm about all the weight you want to lose.  Start small and get some successes under your belt.  Prove to yourself you can do it.  I know you can!