 |
 |
 |
|
 Setting
the Stage for Success:
It takes more than will power to
achieve permanent weight loss.
Creating a home environment that supports your efforts can
dramatically improve your chances of success. Research on
individuals who achieve lasting weight loss have found the
following factors to be helpful:
| • |
Peer Support
Friends and family who understand and support your efforts
and know how to give you the support you need. Examples:
Weight management or other groups, exercise buddies,
dinner partners, caring friends and family members
|
| • |
Professional Support
Individuals with the expertise to guide you through
the change process. Examples: Dietitians, medical personnel,
behavioral and/or psychological counselors, and fitness
trainers
|
| • |
Predictability
Personal control is increased when you know what to
expect.
–Structure: A predictable daily routine, e.g.,
breakfast between 8 and 9 o'clock, workout between 9
and 10:30, errands between 11 and 12, lunch at 12, etc.
–Planning: Attention to daily & weekly goals
& the details that allow you to accomplish them,
e.g., planning ahead what you will have at mealtimes,
what your exercise will entail, how you will spend your
leisure time, etc.
–Monitoring: Recording your meals helps you stay
focused, provides information on how your body reacts
to the foods you eat.
|
| • |
Balance
The appropriate balance between work, leisure, and relaxation
improves mood, decreases stress, and enhances motivation
to take care of yourself.
|
| • |
Easy Access to Exercise
Choosing activities you enjoy and that are accessible
to you improves your adherence. Considering your personality
and personal schedule when choosing a time to exercise
also helps.
|
| • |
Easy Access to Healthy
Foods and
Limited Access to Problem foods
Keeping certain foods out of your immediate environment
and allowing easy access to healthy foods increases
the likelihood of staying on your meal plan.
|
| • |
Focus on yourself
Taking time for yourself increases self-knowledge &
self-awareness, allowing you to create a plan that suits
you personally & change plans as circumstances warrant.
Examples: keeping a journal, meditating, prayer, consultation |
Back to Top
|
|
|
