When you start a weight loss program, it can be an intimidating process. Most people find that the amount of weight they want to lose is quite high, and the thought of how long it will take is daunting. For this reason, many people go for expensive and unrealistic ways to lose weight like surgery, diet pills, etc.

It is vitally important that before you begin a weight loss journey, you set both short-term and long-term goals and then reward yourself for achieving these goals. Let’s take an in-depth look at this process.

Your first step should be to set a long-term goal for how much weight you want to lose. It can be any amount, but don’t set a time limit for your long-term goal.

Second, it’s time to break the end goal down into smaller goals called short-term goals. Typically, with a weight loss program, you will want to divide your weight loss into weeks and / or months. For example, you may want to set a goal of 2 pounds per week or 8 pounds per month.

It is very important to be realistic about your short-term goals. Many people set goals that are impossible to achieve and then become discouraged and quit when they are not achieved. To lose weight, a realistic goal is 1 to 2 pounds per week. It may not sound like much, but think about it; in a year you will have lost more than 100 pounds and will be much more likely not to get it back due to the fact that it has been done the right way. You can also set goals like exercising 5 days a week or drinking 8 glasses of water a day.

After setting goals, it is also extremely important to provide rewards when goals are met. The rewards for your long-term success should be something quite extravagant or something you’ve always wanted to do, like a cruise, a new gem, etc. Keep in mind that depending on your body size, it may take more than a year to reach your goal, so you should enjoy your payoff when it finally comes true.

As for the short-term goals, they should be lower since they will be claimed more frequently. Some examples of short-term rewards might be a small portion of your favorite food, a movie, a massage, etc.

You will find that it is much easier to stay on track with your weight loss routine if you have set achievable goals and are enjoying the rewards of success. Give it a try!