One of the biggest secrets
to successful weight loss is accountability. Accountability simply means making
your choices known and being responsible to continue with them. There are a lot
of systems you can choose to help you reach your healthy weight goals.
One of the simplest but
most effective accountability strategies for losing weight is to tell a friend
your goal. So if you have decided you want to lose 10 pounds before your high
school reunion, you need to tell someone who will hold you accountable. You can
even ask them to check in with you at specific intervals to make sure you are
on track. Involving someone who is going to follow up with you is an easy way
to keep yourself on track to meet your goals.
If you don't have someone
you can rely on for the above method you can still use social accountability
for losing weight by reaching farther out to your network. You can use social
media to publicly declare your new weight goals. This may not be as effective
unless you devise a system to keep you accountable. You could make sure you
post your progress weekly for example or ask someone in your virtual friends
list to check in with you.
Another similar technique
that leverages technology is to find an online group or forum on weight loss
that fits with your style. Join the group then go introduce yourself. Let the
group members know what your goals are. Ask if anyone wants to be
accountability buddies. This set up will be a win-win. Each of you can check in
and support the other in their goals.
There are other technology
tools that can help you with self accountability. A great simple tool you
likely already have is the calendar tool on your phone, computer, email, etc.
Schedule in your workouts with reminders. Set a checklist with your goals and
their due dates. Cross them off when you meet them. This is a great way to
track your progress!
Another useful tool is the
myriad of health apps available for phones and tablets. Many of these apps are
free or at least have a free trial. There are apps to track your meals with
food logging and calorie counting already built it. Other apps will track your
exercise, some even sync up to devices you wear! There are all in one apps to
that track diet, exercise and other healthy choices.
These are just a few ideas
to get you started. There are many more accountability techniques you will
find. Just try out a few and see what helps you reach your health goals.
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