Wittle away the weight

There are many factors that go into weight loss. Exercise alone will not guarantee weight loss. It is a lifestyle change. Many people cannot afford a personal trainer and that is ok. Here are eight factors that contribute to your weight loss.

One - The Mirror: If you have friends and family constantly reminded you that you are big or obese or saying, "Why are you eating that?" dump them; at least temporarily. Even if you have friends that are the opposite, "You aren't going to eat that sugar free dish, are you?" you don't need them either. They are dumping on you and they are not really going to help you succeed.

Two - Read labels: I only eat reduced sugar peanut butter, but it's mostly because I think regular peanut butter is too sweet. There are many products that offer a reduction of calories without a reduction in taste. For breads and pastas, make sure it has at least 3 grams of dietary fiber. This helps maintain and get reduce bad cholesterol in your body.

Three - Get a hobby: If you watch tv four or more hours a day, find something else to do. Join a book club, take a class, form a walking group - just get out of the house!

Four - Reprogram your computer: Purge all of the negative thoughts you have about yourself. Yes, you have made mistakes, but you're not alone. Start to listen to your thoughts. Every time you have a bad one, write it down. Counter it with a good thought. Example - I'm fat. I'll never get into that dress. Next to it write - I will never get into that dress if I keep telling myself I won't. I will get into it.

Five - Toss the soda: It takes awhile to get accustomed to new things. Changing your habits will take time. If you drink six sodas a week, replace one with something healthier week by week. One week, replace a soda with a bottle of water. The next week, replace one soda with water and another with soy milk.

Six - Baby steps: You have to crawl before you can walk. You have to walk before you can run. Take a walk around the block one day. Eventually, take that walk a few days a week and increase it. Build up your endurance and you will find yourself more receptive to exercising.

Seven - Set Abstract instead of concrete goals: Do not set goals like I will lose five pounds in two weeks. Set a goal like I will change my lifestyle little by little.

Eight - Keep a journal: See how you feel from week to week. Go back and read it and track your progress. It's wonderful to watch yourself change before your very eyes!