Studies show that people who pre-decide on a goal and write it down are 10 – 20 times more likely to succeed. Write your goal weight on a sticky-note and place it in a prominent place where you can see it often, such as your wallet, purse, or bathroom mirror. Think through realistic long-term, intermediate, and short-term action goals for each of the three lifestyle areas, including weight, exercise, and eating habits – and write them down. Use page 98 in Prescription for Life as a guide for writing a commitment statement to sign and date.
Also, peer pressure works in mysterious ways. Accountability and success go hand-in-hand. A recent study showed that people who recruited an accountability partner lost 20% more weight than individuals who lost weight without an accountability partner.Recruit an accountability partner or support group who will agree to encourage each other to accomplish your goals. Show this person or group. Don’t leave things happenstance. Determine how often you will communicate about your progress. Remember to reinforce the good. But, don’t shy away from challenging each other when little things and excuses sabotage your commitment to a longer, healthier life.
“Graph” photo courtesy of digitalart at www.freedigitalphotos.net
