Getting It in Writing

Now that you have an honest idea of what your shape can look like and what your goal weight should be, visualize it. Imagine in great detail how you will look and feel, the many ways in which your life will be different and, yes, better. This is where I suggest keeping a notebook. More than just a journal or a food log ‑- that comes later ‑- this is a place for you to write everything and see it in front of you so you are inspired to work through your issues and toward your goals, rather than avoid your problems and stay in neutral. Kelly from The Biggest Loser talked with me about wanting to go on a date when she went back home and finding the confidence to ask her boss for a raise. Since she's been home, she's done both those things and more.

Putting it all on paper will also help you think more fully about your goals: Do you want to be healthy, confident, physically and mentally strong? What clothes do you want to wear that you can't now? See and feel yourself in your ultimate body, living a new life, playing with your kids, going on a date, getting compliments from friends or coworkers. Whatever the ultimate goals are for you, both physically and emotionally, write them down now in as much detail as you can, and refer back to them often. They will help you stay motivated on your journey.

As you are envisioning the changes in your future, you must begin to let go of your past. Forget about what you looked like in high school, whether it was good or bad. Forget about fat periods or skinny periods in your life. The past does not define you; your present does. Having a vision of the future affects your behavior now. The key here is to let your daily actions be governed by your game plan for a new you and to keep that game plan in the forefront of your mind by writing about it and letting it become real. There's no deadline. Just commit to the process and take it day by day.