Why do you want to lose weight? Are you really clear on this?

I’ve had clients telling me they want to lose weight because a spouse, parent or boy friend told them they needed to lose weight. This motivation is often not successful in getting you to lose weight permanently. Consistent and permanent weight loss occurs not on its own. You will have to do a lot for it, and the motivation will have to come mostly from within.

You will lose weight because you want it, not because somebody else wants it.

The most frequent response to “Why do you want to lose weight?” has to do with appearance, vanity and the need to look good. Western society puts a lot of value on being thin, and discrimination against overweight people is very frequent- probably more frequent than you are aware of. It’s usually done behind your back.

So, it is important to look good. On the other hand, when you come from this perspective you still base your motivation on other people’s opinion… And your value as a person should not come from others, but from your own assessment.

The second most frequent response to “Why do you want to lose weight?” is good health. Psychology Today once did a survey and found that 41% of survey respondents indicated they would give away 5 years of their life to be thin. So… What do you think about being thin and gaining at least 5 years? Because that’s what you will when you lose weight permanently in a healthy way.

And: Not only you will live longer; when you have lost weight permanently you will have more fun in your life too. That’s the third reason for permanent weight loss. You’ll feel more energetic. You’ll do more challenging things. You quality of life will increase dramatically.

Reason number four I hear most often is: self-esteem. You will have more confidence. Not only in your appearance but in your ability to control your life as well. You are demonstrating to the world around you, and, even more importantly, to yourself that you are able to navigate the ship of your life into the right direction. If you need a starting point for healthy weight loss, get personalized advice here.

Are you a woman over 40? Do you want to lose weight permanently? Signup for your free, personalized “Lose Weight Permanently” program. I answer your questions individually. Click here now.

Recommended reading:

• Weight Loss Plans for Women over 40: Are You Having a Difficult Time Being Consistent With Any Weight Plan or Diet?
  
• Any Tips For a 40 Year Old Woman That Can’t Lose Weight?

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