WEIGHT IS RELATIVE

If you have a lot of weight to lose, it is easy to get discouraged, and you may feel overwhelmed. Remember, your weight is just a number on the scale; your weight is relative. It can go up or it can go down; the direction it goes is totally up to you. Try looking at your weight loss as a journey or a process, and plan to enjoy and learn from each step along the way.

The first step in your journey is the decision that you are going to do this, once and for all. You are going to successfully change your lifestyle, follow a healthy diet and exercise program, and you are going to lose weight. This is the commitment that you have made to yourself.

The process, or the journey, is the more difficult part. This is where you have to take each day as it comes. Plan your meals and shop accordingly, and plan time for exercise. Do not let yourself fall into the habit of making excuses for not eating right or for not exercising; how can you possibly be "too busy" for yourself?

There will be times when you think that you're not losing weight fast enough, or that you still look "fat" or that your clothes are not fitting any better than they did last week. Be patient; you did not gain weight overnight, and you surely won't lose it overnight. Take time to re-focus, re-establish your goals and commitment, and press on. You will get there if you stay committed. Head for the treadmill instead of the refrigerator when you get discouraged!