10 Things You Must Know

I've said many times in the past an I'll say it again: I'm no weight loss expert or medical professional. But I'm always willing to help based solely on my experiences.

If you're just starting your weight loss journey, I think there's some things you should know. And I'm NOT saying any of it to discourage you. I really wish someone had been this honest with me in the beginning.

Starting on Tuesday, I'm gonna blog each day about my top 10 things you should know. Here's a quick rundown:

10. Do it for you. Sure, you owe it to your family, kids, significant other to be the healthiest version of you but make yourself the number one reason for getting healthy.

9.  Don't do it to look better. Do it to feel better. Beauty is skin deep but when you're healthy, you glow from the inside and that's just beautiful.

8.  Be prepared for injuries, plateaus and other setbacks. To be blunt, shit is gonna happen and it's ok. Let your body heal if you get an injury, re-evaluate and shake things up if you plateau. 

7.  Know that everyday isn't going to be perfect and that it's 100% ok to have a cheat day now and then. I honestly believe that's why I really haven't had to deal with a long lasting plateau.

6. Drinking water and pretty much all but giving up sodas, even if they're diet, is gonna help you BIG time. A soda now and then is fine and we won't even talk about coffee.

6.  Know that there are magic pills, shakes or other gimmicks. Do you really want to take those diet pills or drink those shakes the rest of your life? (Not included in this is weight loss surgery because it's a wonderful tool if it's medically necessary)

5. Get rid of all the negative in your life, people included. They're only gonna destroy you. I'm not saying end all of your lifelong relationships but only keep those who support you close. A support system is essential. And expect haters.

4. You have to move to effectively burn the calories you consume. No couch potatoes.

3. Weight loss is nearly if not as much mental as it is physical.

2.  Set small, attainable, realistic goals along the way instead of one big frustrating goal.

1.  Realize that this isn't a "diet". This is a lifelong healthy lifestyle change.

Come back on Tuesday where I'll start with a break down of #10!