You already know that your weight loss plan depends upon a careful balance of calories in versus calories out. But embarking upon a life-changing journey involves more than just some physical alterations to your eating habits or exercise routine. You will also be challenged to change your thinking, and that’s a good thing because your thoughts can significantly impact your results.

You’ve heard of “positive thinking” but with regard to your weight loss plan, what does that entail, exactly?

Visualize your results. We experience more of the things we focus on. So rather than worry about potential obstacles, visualize your success. In particular, picture the specific results of your weight loss plan. Yes, you might want to look nice in a swimsuit, but you also want to live a healthy life, get to know your grandchildren someday, enjoy active hobbies, and so on. Picture yourself doing those things.

Trust yourself. Your plan really can work, and it will work as long as you follow it faithfully. Look at it this way: Can you follow directions and stick to a plan for a few months? Of course you can! Remind yourself of that daily, and the belief in yourself will turn goals into reality.

Break large goals into smaller, attainable benchmarks. For example, if you want to lose thirty pounds it can feel discouraging when you don’t see that result yet. But of course you won’t! That kind of goal takes time. But in the meantime, you can celebrate each five-pound increment in your weight loss.

Say (or think) nice things to yourself. Steer away from self criticisms, and replace negative thoughts with praise. Focus on your accomplishments and the things you like about yourself, and remind yourself of these regularly.

Of course, positive thinking goes hand in hand with a doctor-prescribed weight loss plan. So if you need help with that part, call us to schedule an appointment and we’ll be happy to help.