Is weight loss your "Everest"
Tackle weight loss a step at a time
Is losing weight on your list of resolutions for the new year?
For some of us, this feels like the equivalent of "climbing Mt. Everest” or at least the nearest hill. A little daunting.
It doesn’t have to be. Successful mountaineers offer this reassurance – every climb is made one step at a time. You can do it.
If losing weight is your “Everest”, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Set your mind on the “why.” Mountain climbers head uphill for the view or the rush of accomplishment. You’re not losing weight just for the sake of losing it. You’re doing it for a reason that means something to you. Is it to keep up with your kids or grandkids? Or to manage diabetes? Or to keep your favorite wardrobe? Hold fast to what drives you.
- Have a plan. No mountaineer starts climbing without a trail map or without knowing the terrain. You too need a clear idea in advance of how to achieve your goal. Map out a workout schedule. Put together some healthy menus. Look ahead to the “big” events on your calendar so you can create a strategy to deal with wedding cake or other cliffs of temptation.
- Pack for success. This is a journey. You won’t finish it in one day so take along good provisions. Grocery shop when your resolve is high. Fill your pantry and fridge with healthful snacks. Invest in a yoga mat or a workout top.
- Travel with a buddy. You probably have a friend or family member who is just as eager as you to tackle “fat mountain.” Team up. Call each other your “Sherpa” and enjoy the journey in good company.
- Keep the end in sight. Review your plan every so often. Get out your proverbial compass and recalibrate, when necessary. If something’s not working, fix it.
- Rest and celebrate now and then. Enjoy what you learn and see along the way. Reward yourself with a mani-pedi or something that doesn’t involve food.
- Record your journey. Take pictures so you can look back on where you've been. Keep an eating journal and/or an activity log to be mindful of how you're doing. These might also help you see daily or weekly patterns that affect your success. Share your observations to inspire other fitness seekers.
Just remember. You didn’t gain extra weight overnight. Don’t expect to lose it overnight. Be patient with yourself and with your journey. And keep putting one foot in front of the other. This climb is worth the effort.
Here are more resources to help you conquer this mountain:
