Struggling to motivate myself to lose weight

[Mum7777]

Anyone else struggling to motivate themselves to lose weight?

I've gained 8 pounds whilst on lockdown. With being less active at home, eating everything in sight and home baking every week with the kids.

I really need to lose 2-3 stone. Any tips to start me off ans get me on the right track.

[MellowBird85]

You could start small, cut one thing out, maybe chocolate or crisps and set yourself a small goal of going for a brisk walk everyday.

But tbh, when I feel like this I find it’s more effective to just chuck myself in the deep end by planning and shopping for my meals for the rest of the week (i.e. porridge with fruit for breakfast, tuna salad wrap for lunch and something healthy for tea) and doing some vigorous exercise every other day. I also plan a treat so I don’t become fed up and gives me something to look forward to.

[MonsteraCheeseplant]

Have you successfully lost weight before? What motivated you then?

[MellowBird85]

I have. I was 9st 10lb at my heaviest (I am 5”1) and currently 7st 7lb. I suppose I motivated myself by wanting it really badly and exercising willpower. Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love food and have a big appetite but, for example, when I really wanted pizza for tea, I begrudgingly had grilled chicken, salad and small portion of rice instead. Then I’d wake up the next morning and be happy with my decision and it gave me the motivation to carry on.

[PhantomErik]

This week I've started counting calories again. I'm only on day 4 but lost 2lb so far. I know it's VERY early days but I'm awful at sticking to diets so feeling quietly positive.

I'd like to lose 2 stone (then another 1!) so have a long way to go.

I was looking at our holiday photos from last year & I'm heavier now than I was then & I looked huge in some photos & it was a bit of a wake up call.

To fill my plate I've had loads of broccoli, spring greens, tinned tomatoes, pickled onions, cucumber etc

I also bought low ish calorie crisps (70 cals) for when I'm desperate!

[Mum7777]

Thanks for your replies. It is easier when I'm at work as I dont really get chance to sit down all day. Plus I can only eat what I take with me. Events normally motivate me, like holidays but that's been cancelled. Feeling a little deflated at home isnt helping. I need to get myself out of this slump.

[TheRainbowCollection]

I hear you. I think what's going to work for me is reframing this as a "when am I ever going to get the chance to be so in control of my eating and have the time and opportunity to make new, healthy but really tasty things again?" (No meals out, no social pressure, can plan everything).

Negative motivation doesn't really work for me.