The Quickest Way to Lose Weight

If you want your stomach to look like this - we have good news for you! You really can sculpt a tighter, more toned body - in far less time than you might imagine! This doesn't involve any miracle cures or magic pills. Fortunately - there are natural ways to achieve lasting weight loss - and a slimmer you!

    Think about those things that might pose challenges to your weight loss effort. For example, does your work or travel schedule make it difficult to get enough physical activity? Do you find yourself eating sugary foods because that's what you buy for your kids? Do your associates at work often bring those seemingly innocent goodies ( like candy ) to work? Do you enjoy stopping at the bakery to pick up some tasty treats to share with everyone?

 Everyone loves sweets - don't they?  And, if you are really want to lose a few inches  - you might want to limit your sugar and baked goods - for a while! Think about things you can do to help overcome these challenges. Maybe only stop at the donut shop once a month. Or pass by that plate of cookies in the break room. Enjoy an apple instead. Or a handful of heart healthy walnuts!

     What else can you do or change that can help you lose weight. For example, is there an area near your workplace where you and your coworkers can enjoy a quick walk over your lunch hour? Is there a place in your city, like the Y, with exercise facilities for you and child care for your little ones?

   Maybe you'd prefer to save your money and get some exercise without even leaving the house! Pick up some inexpensive home fitness equipment and workout while you watch Dancing with the Stars!

Set some short-term goals and reward your efforts along the way. If your long-term goal is to lose 40 pounds and to control your high blood pressure, some short-term eating and physical activity goals might be to start eating breakfast, taking a 15 minute walk in the evenings, or having a salad or vegetable with supper.

Focus on two or three goals at a time. Great, effective goals are —

• Specific
• Realistic
• Forgiving (less than perfect)

For example, "Exercise More" is not a specific goal. But if you say, "I will walk 15 minutes, 3 days a week for the first week," you are setting a specific and realistic goal for the first week.

Remember, small changes every day can lead to big results in the long run. Realistic goals are achievable goals. By achieving your short-term goals day-by-day, you'll feel good about your progress and stay motivated to continue. Setting unrealistic goals, such as losing 20 pounds in 2 weeks, can leave you feeling defeated and frustrated.

    Expect setbacks. Setbacks happen when you get away from your plan for whatever reason – maybe the holidays, longer work hours, or another life change. When setbacks happen, get back on track as quickly as possible. Also take some time to think about what you would do differently if a similar situation happens, to prevent setbacks in the future!

Keep in mind everyone is different – what works for someone else might not be right for you. Just because your neighbor lost weight by taking up running, doesn't mean running is the best option for you. Try a variety of healthy pursuits – walking, swimming, tennis, or group exercise classes to see what you enjoy most and can fit into your life. The quickest way to lose weight - and keep it off - is with a steady dose of daily exercise and healthy eating habits!

Try it for a couple months and you'll want to stick with it for the long term.