First Steps To Weight Loss The first step if you're trying to lose weight is to have a plan! Plan on the fact that weight loss doesn't happen over night. Plan on the fact that you will feel great as soon as you start to lose weight ! You want the pounds off once and for all, so let's try a different approach this time. Leave the "all or nothing" diet at the door and move on to smart weight loss. Gradual changes are the smart approach to losing weight and will get you the results you want! First set up a realistic goal weight. Pick a weight you have felt good at in the past or a weight you know you, personally, would feel good at. Start with a smaller goal, when you reach that, you will feel great and be ready for the next step! Don't put a time limit on your weight loss, as long as you are serious about finally losing the weight, and you START TODAY, you will reach your goal eventually! Second, at the beginning of each week decide what lifestyle change you will incorporate into your week. Stick with it and do the same the following week. These gradual changes will help you to incorporate healthier practices and make them into habits. You will see results! Many times people start off strong only to fade out after a couple of weeks, and they ultimately end up right where they started. Making gradual, permanent changes will help you to lose the weight and KEEP IT OFF! Here are a few tips to get you started: (take one a week, until you've incorporated them all into your everyday lifestyle!) 1. Eat 4-6 small meals throughout the day--this helps your body more effectively use the nutrients and gets your metabolism moving. 2. Stay away from highly processed foods, fast foods, sugary foods, sweets, and high fat foods. 3. Incorporate vegetables in place of pastas and breads. 4. Switch to lower fat food items and choices especially when it comes to items like cheese, milk, meats, salad dressings, and condiments. 5. Drink at least 8 glasses of water everyday--shy away from soda and juices. 6. Begin to incorporate daily exercise into your routine--begin with 20 minutes 3 times per week. 7. Don't "clean your plate" of all the food! Leave a little food on your plate every time you eat. Learn to eat one portion or one serving (restaurants often give huge portions!) 8. Try not to eat 2 hours before bedtime, and make your last meal of the day higher in protein and lower in carbohydrates (for example, grilled chicken with roasted vegetables) 9. Take a multivitamin each day to ensure proper nutrients and consider supplementing your program with a weight loss product that will assist you.