For every New Year that rolls around, we all come up with these long lists of things that we want to change or do differently for a fresh 365. From things dealing with our careers to planning extravagant vacations for our families to go on, resolutions can apply to almost anything imaginable. But one of the main things on these lists is a plan to lose weight. It’s easy to say that you are going to shed those pounds. But have you really mapped out a concrete plan to do so? For those who are serious about getting into shape and keeping those extra pounds off for good, here are a few tips to help you reach your goals, the right way:
Dine In Only
As some of us have very hectic schedules, dining in can be a hard task to conquer. After getting home from a long day of work, firing up a stove or oven is the last thing on our minds. So naturally, we resort to running to a restaurant to satisfy our appetites. But before you make that phone call for a quick plate of Chinese food, take a look in your cabinets first. Chances are you will find something easy to prepare that won’t lead to extra calories that you will have to burn off later. Plus, it will save you a lot of money by eating at home.
Look But Don’t Eat
When it comes to food, our eyes can get the best of us at times. We could have eaten a full meal, topped off with a dessert and still find our way to the refrigerator to pull out some more to eat. Not because we are starving hungry, but simply because our eyes can lead us to think that our bodies are still in need of something tasty to eat. Good ways to fight these urges is to leave the table once you are finish eating or put up all the leftover food items in the fridge so that you won’t have anything visible. Out of sight, out of mind.
Portion Control
As it is important to not let your eyes get you in trouble when it comes to food, it is just as important not to eat too much at one time. Since we are technically supposed to eat three full meals a day, there is no need to cram all of your calories into one sitting. Be easy, the food isn’t going anywhere. Ration your food out and consume it in small portions and you will not wind up with a horrible stomach ache and won’t feel as guilty in the end.
Say It In Ink
Keeping a daily journal of all the things that you eat each day will help you keep track of the number of calories that you are consuming. It has become much easier to keep up with the number of calories that you take in by simply looking at the packages that your food comes in. But it can become hard to keep a mental note of all those calories throughout a busy day. So having a journal to take with you makes it easy to document everything that goes into your mouth and how many minutes you have to spend on the treadmill to burn it off.
Keep It Movin’
Engaging in constant movement all day long is a great way to get a jump start on losing that weight for the New Year. Instead of taking the elevator to get to your office, try taking the stairs. Even if it means traveling a few flight of stairs everyday, trust me, the results will be well worth it. For those who live within minutes from their jobs, keep that car parked right where it is and take a nice walk or bike ride to work, if weather permits it. Eating healthy food is important in your New Year weight loss journey, but involving yourself in physical activity is just as necessary to lose weight at a consistent, yet steady rate.