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I just picked up the annual edition of People Magazine’s Half Their Size. I’m generally not a People reader but this particular issue I have purchased every year for the past four years. I like it and I like that it comes out the first week of January. Despite the fact that each year it’s pretty much the same thing; meaning, various people on various diets losing a lot of weight, I am always very interested in how they did it. What I’ve taken away from these past four years is that regardless of what program they chose, success always seems to boil down to three factors:
- Having a Big “Why”. Why do YOU want to lose weight? It will be uncomfortable for a while and even difficult at times. You’ll have to change habits and overcome cravings. So why do it?
- Having a Solid Plan. Following a specific set of protocols is critical to success. Over the years I’ve read success stories from people on the Cookie Diet to Nutrisystem to the Cabbage Soup Diet to Atkins, and on and on. Some plans seem to be pretty solid and some are a bit sketchy. Not all programs are equal so following the right plan is also critical to success.
- Being Committed. What good is a big why and solid plan if you don’t stick to it?
The first and last of this list are internal. They must come from within you somewhere. The solid plan is external and I’ve got that covered plus a little help on the others. Knowing your big why and being committed are interdependent.
Regarding Your Why: If you’ve struggled in the past trying to lose weight, it could be that your why wasn’t clearly defined and consequently not internalized. I suggest writing it down somewhere to make it real. Then look at it often. Most likely your why will not be singular but include a number of reasons why you want to lose weight. If you haven’t written down your whys, try it right now. It’ll just take a couple of minutes. Ideally you’ll have one or two VERY BIG whys at the top of your list. The danger in not having a big enough why is that your commitment will be undermined. You won’t have anything to fall back on when the donuts arrive.
Regarding your commitment: Staying on track until you attain your healthy weight is a healthy challenge. With Medifast you can lose weight quickly, which is extremely encouraging, but you’ve got to be compliant to enjoy that luxury. If your why is big enough then half the battle is won. The remainder is to follow the protocols of this program like a robot until you get some real success under your belt. Success and compliance can be incredibly symbiotic if you let it. I would also strongly suggest you commit to reading this email each week to help you stay committed. From time to time you’ll need someone to lean on. As my client you can send an email or schedule a call when the going gets rough.
Final Note: I’m in People Magazine!
Did I mention that I’m also in the latest issue of People Magazine?? Well,(spoiler alert) not me specifically, but me as a Take Shape For Life health coach! On page 133 you’ll see a full page ad that says:
Medifast is recommended by over 15,000 doctors. Here’s why:
It’s simple: You can lose up to 20 pounds a month with a complete nutrition program that is clinically proven to work.
It’s affordable: You can take advantage of special packages and spend less per day than the average American spends on food.
It’s supported: You can get a caring, knowledgeable Health Coach from our Take Shape For Life program for FREE.
I’ve got the knowledge and I care very much about helping you attain your healthy goals.
GO ’09!
eb.