One of the most common reasons for unsuccessful weight loss is the failure to set smart goals from the first get-go. Many individuals will simply say their intention to lose weight and yet have absolutely no idea when, why and how to go about achieving their goal. Think of it as setting yourself up for disappointment even before you have actually started.
The good news is that you can avoid falling into this particular weight loss trap. Your first step is to set smart goals. Here’s how to do it using the SMART acronym for goal-setting.
S – Specific
You must be specific in your statement of the weight loss goal. Your goal must be stated in such a way that you have no doubt in your mind as to the following matters:
- What you want to achieve
- Why you want to achieve it
- How you plan to achieve it
For example, it will not do to state that you want to look thinner and feel healthier since there are many ways to do so such as liposuction surgery. The smarter way is to say: I want to lose weight through a proper exercise and diet plan.
M – Measurable
We live in a world where measurements are king and weight loss goals are no exception to the rule. Thus, when you are setting your weight loss goal, you must attach units of measurement to it specifically in terms of kilos lost within the set period.
For example, your goal can be stated as: To lose 10 kilos in a month from the first day of the weight loss plan. You now have a baseline in which to evaluate your success in actually shedding the pounds after the time has lapsed.
A- Attainable
Then, your weight loss goal must actually be attainable given your age, physical condition and other physiological factors that come into play. You may want to consult with a medical doctor, a fitness expert or a personal trainer to determine what can be attainable goal in your case.
For example, if you are 35 years old, weigh 100 kilos and lead a busy life with multiple roles to play, then your attainable weight loss goal can be to lose 10 kilos in 30 days. You may want to lose 30 kilos in 30 days but that is neither attainable nor healthy.
R – Realistic
The realistic part of setting weight loss goals is closely related to the attainable aspect. You must be realistic because our minds and bodies can only do so much to lose weight. You want to be encouraged to move on to the next step because you have successfully overcome the last one.
T – Time-Bound
And then, your goal must be time-bound. You should set a time from today until the day you want to see the results of your efforts. We recommend setting short-, intermediate- and long-term goals. For example, your short -term goal is to lose 10 kilos in 30 days. Your long-term goal is to stay within your ideal weight for the next 5 years.
The smart weight loss goal can be stated as: “I want to lose weight to become healthier, which I shall achieve through a balanced diet, regular exercise and a healthy lifestyle. I will lose 10 kilos within the next 30 days.”
