TEN TIPS ON HOW TO LOSE WEIGHT IN 2006—AND KEEP IT OFF! By Linda Castor, RN, LCPC
(My article was published in the Illinois Times, early January issue)
January is here and you’ve decided you’re tired of feeling overweight, overstressed and overwhelmed. You’ve made a resolution to make better food choices, exercise regularly, and take time to smell the roses in 2006. Then, before you know it, it’s April! The stores are showcasing the new swimwear, and you haven’t lost a single pound! Once again, you have failed to keep your New Year’s resolution. Oh well, you say to yourself, there’s that incredibly tempting bakery on the way home…
Wait! Don’t give up! Here are 10 ideas to help you jump‑start your weight management plan and change your life.
- Find a weight loss partner.
Research has shown that support + weight loss = success! We really do need one another to keep us accountable and going in the right direction.
- Plan ahead.
Generate a plan on how you will lose weight. Make your lunch ahead of time, have almonds in the car for when you are hungry, eat an apple before you reach for candy, and choose whole grains vs. “white foods” so you won’t be as hungry.
- Set a realistic goal.
Your strategy should fit your personality. Measure your success in ways that will motivate you. Focus on percentage lost, for instance, instead of total pounds lost. Or, you may not wish to weigh yourself initially until your clothes feel baggy. Remember, the best way to ease into weight loss is to lose 2 – 3 pounds per week.
- Find out what’s eating YOU.
Most people know why they overeat, so why do they continue to do it? Talking with a professional therapist can give you some insights into why you can’t seem to break the pattern of overeating. A good therapist can help you work through your personal roadblocks.
- Open your mind to learning more about nutrition.
I can’t tell you how many people think they know everything about nutrition, but in reality, most people don’t have up-to-date information. I co-host nutrition and weight management workshops with Nancy Wisleder, B.S., and find I still learn more each time.
- Each day, for 30 minutes, do something for yourself.
By focusing on yourself, you are caring and nurturing your needs and not always giving to others to the point you have very little energy for yourself. Start taking care of yourself, and you will soon feel more content and peaceful.
- Deal with the “disconnect”.
Be more aware of your surroundings, actions and people who sabotage your eating habits. Notice when you are angry, bored or stressed, and the overeating that usually ensues. Instead, replace overeating with a more productive activity.
- Make exercise FUN!
If you get bored riding a stationary bike, then don’t do it. Combine enjoyable activities along with your exercise routine, like watching your favorite show while walking on the treadmill. Use cordless earphones to hear over treadmill noise.
- Accomplish something amazing this year.
We are talking self-esteem, here. Feeling like you’ve contributed to the world in a positive way, not to mention the accolades you will receive, is one way to recharge and revitalize your spirit.
- Love yourself and take time with friends, or even make new friends.
There is nothing more rewarding than feeling lifted up by people we trust. Some friends are like sophisticated mirrors; they help us see ourselves in a more positive light. The ongoing support and encouragement from our friends and family can be better than any “vice” we rely on to soothe our souls.
There you have it! Start today. Make a difference in your life in 2006! | 
