Stop Trying to Lose

Does getting in shape mean losing weight for you? Have you tried to lose weight before, thought you lost some only to gain it right back?
As a Personal Trainer when I meet with a new client one of my first questions are around personal goals. Most answers I hear are related to weight loss. Whether it be 10 pounds or 100 pounds, more than half the people I talk to about one-on-one training are looking to lose weight.
A mentor shared this analogy with me and I wanted to share with you. What happens when you lose your keys? You always find them. Sometimes you find them right away other times it is when you stop looking and least expect to find them. In the end, you always find them. Whether its your keys, or an important document, it’s not lost for long. You will find it.
What about love? There is that saying: you search for love all your life and finally find it when you least expect to. We have all heard to stop trying so hard and it will just be there.
What makes you think it is any different when it comes to weight loss? Why make it a negative process? When your thoughts are filled with negativity you are attracting more of what you don’t want. If you regularly think it is difficult to lose weight, you probably believe it is difficult and will likely struggle. Making weight loss a negative process is hurting your progress and preventing you from losing the weight you want.
Stop trying so hard, stop focusing on losing, and try a more positive approach. Focus on what you will gain: you will be healthy, strong and fit.
Replace your negative thoughts with positive ones. Consider positive affirmations to help you with this approach: I can do this! I will have the body I want! I am beautiful and I will be healthier, stronger and fit! I am full of energy and I am looking forward to my workout! What affirmation fits you best? When you find an affirmation that works for you repeat it continuously until it becomes natural and you believe it to be true.
By adjusting the way you think about health and fitness is a great step to a healthy lifestyle. Make the process to getting fit and healthy a positive one. Stop losing weight and approach your goals with a positive outlook, expect the best and don’t be surprised that your waistline gets smaller and your thighs firmer. Replace your goals to lose weight and make plans for a healthier lifestyle for your body and your mind.