Many of us made a resolution to lose weight or live healthier this New Year. Whether you’ve been following a diet plan or procrastinating for the past month, it can be difficult to stay motivated after the New Year’s excitement has faded. Losing weight and keeping it off is a big change that’s easier to tackle when you have a support system to keep you going. That’s why Nebraska Weight Management Institute in Lincoln and Omaha, NE, believes in guiding you through a weight loss plan and giving you the support you need to lose weight and keep it off for good.

How to Stick to Your Diet Plan

1. Do It for You

What’s your biggest motivation to lose weight? If the answer is anything other than your own happiness, you should reassess. Loving yourself is what will help you persevere when you hit a wall. 

2. Set Realistic Goals

Everyone wants to lose weight fast, but that’s not always the most sustainable plan. Most people can expect to lose 8-10 pounds per month—that’s about two pounds per week.  Keep in mind that the real challenge isn’t how fast you can lose the weight, but how long you can keep it off.

3. Make Personalized Changes

You don’t have to go grain-free just because everyone else is doing it. Make changes that make sense for you. Reduce your craving for sweets by eating more lean protein, or sneak in a superfood smoothie mid-morning or afternoon when you tend to be at your hungriest.

4. Keep a Food Journal

Writing down what you eat isn’t just about counting calories. Noticing when you crave certain foods will help you to understand why, and you may discover what triggers your impulse for eating certain foods.

5. Treat Yourself

Reward yourself for reaching your goals. After all, you’re doing this for you. Don’t make food the reward, as this can send confusing signals to your brain. Instead, treat yourself by getting a massage or taking a weekend trip. But if there’s something you’ve been craving or a restaurant you really want to try, don’t deny yourself.

When it comes to sticking to your diet plan, finding balance is key. Your support network at Nebraska Weight Management Institute in Lincoln and Omaha, NE, will be by your side every step of the way, so you’re more likely to stick to your weight loss plan.