5. Build confidence.
Why?
Feeling confident that you can change a behavior is one of the single biggest predictors of being able to change. It's called "self-efficacy"—the belief in your ability to "organize and execute" whatever behavior you would like to modify. It's the confidence that we can attain what we want. This is especially important if you want to control your weight.
What You Need to Know
The reality is that any behavior change is hard – and thinking you can't do it even before you start makes it that much harder. So, avoid thoughts like:
- I can't lose weight—it's in my genes.
- I'll never be able to exercise three times a week.
- I can't eat at a restaurant without pigging out on the bread basket.
More: Is Low Self-Esteem Making You Fat?
To build confidence, use affirmations. Telling yourself that you can do something is half the battle.
Try to build confidence by educating yourself. For instance, if you want to start eating healthy at home, try taking a few healthy cooking classes. You can even rent or buy healthy cooking DVDs.
Another way to build confidence is to examine other instances when you have been successful at overcoming adversity. The more you've been successful in the past, the more you gain experience of yourself as a winner.
More: 4 Foods That Burn Belly Fat
Think of a past situation in your life in which you triumphed over difficulties or challenges to achieve something great or something that at one point seemed impossible to you. Then give yourself some credit and draw the connection: "If I could overcome that, I can certainly lose weight or start an exercise program."
Lose weight and perform better at your next event. Sign up for a race near you. 