Goal Setting for Losing Weight

How Do I Get There –

"Only a few find the way, some don't recognize it when they do, some don't ever want to," said the Cheshire Cat.

You must know where you are to figure out where you are going and only then can you figure out how to get there. This was the basis for the Cheshire Cat’s argument with Alice in Alice In Wonderland.

So, clearly the first order of business is to figure out where you stand today.  The scale can offer some insight as to where you are but I would suggest seeing a personal trainer or health professional for actual measurements of body parts like the arms, thighs, and waist as well as your overall body fat percentage.  Once these numbers are gathered then it is simple math…

Healthy And Realistic Goals –

Let’s say you are a female who is currently 5’6” and a soft 160 at 28% body fat.  If your goal is to be at 125 then it is just math as alluded to earlier.  Take where you want to be from where you are and then plan on 2 pounds a week and/or 1-2% body fat reduction a month.  That will allow you to have a realistic time frame.  In addition, do not be discouraged if you reach one goal before the other.  As long as you are making progress you are doing well.  In the example given, it should take approximately 4 months to drop the unwanted 35 fat pounds and most likely no less than 5 months, but no more than 10 months, attain a healthy 18% body fat.  Remember, you did not get out of shape all that quickly and it takes hard work, time, and dedication to get fit.  Heck, if it were easy everyone would be in shape. 

Be Fit Not Just Skinny –

Are there ways to lose weight more quickly?  Sure.  But the overwhelming consensus is that those come in the form of short-term gimmicks and do nothing but set people up for failure in the long-term.  Many of those who subscribe to magic pills, cleanses, and unconventional diets find they become what those in the industry call skinny-fat, where they are thin but since they have no muscle, their body fat percentage stays elevated and thus, unhealthy. 

The proper approach must have short-term goals along the way towards your final goal otherwise it can be a bit overwhelming.  Short-term goals could be a new dress or shirt for meeting a monthly weight loss goal.  However, I do caution you to be mindful that you will sometimes see stagnation in your progress as it relates to the scale and even body fat percentages.  This is normal but it can be discouraging.  To help counter those feelings, allow yourself non-food splurging rewards for things like getting your workout in every day that week or for completing that leg workout that almost made you puke or running an extra mile while staying within your target heart rate range.  Most importantly, remember to have fun.  If you feel like you need support than get a friend or family member to work with you or maybe consider a qualified personal trainer to keep you motivated.  I have seen numerous people in all different stages of un-fitness… you CAN do this, I promise.