7 Pitfalls to Weight Loss and How to Overcome Them

Lack of a Plan

Most people approach weight loss by saying that they will “start eating better” and “exercising more,” but that is ineffective. A better plan is to write down a goal weight and a realistic time to achieve it, taking into account pitfalls such as a vacation, holiday, etc. Then set up exercise sessions, scheduling them like appointments. Start with 2 days a week for 20 minutes (or a slight increase of what you are doing currently) and gradually increase the number of days and/or minutes of activity. For your diet, use a published eating plan or program (Weight Watchers is one of the best) or cut out foods that are empty calories such as soda, sweets, chips, etc. Eat your meals on salad plates instead of dinner plates to control portions and limit eating out or consult calories guides before ordering.

“The wisdom of the shrewd enlightens their way, but the folly of fools is deceit.” - Proverbs 14:8

Unwillingness to Suffer

In order to lose weight you will have to experience hunger. You will also have to exercise or increase your activity. This is uncomfortable and involves sacrifice, which goes against our modern culture. Yet you can make this sacrifice a positive thing by using it as a cue to pray or a reminder to help those less fortunate. You might also try fasting once a week or eating only bread and water on certain days. (Use caution and consult your doctor and/or religious leader if you have any questions or doubts about fasting. If your job is strenuous or fasting could impact your performance, you may only want to fast on days off.)

“Not only that, but we even boast of our afflictions, knowing that affliction produces endurance, and endurance, proven character, and proven character, hope…” - Romans 5:3-4

No Accountability

It’s difficult to measure progress without keeping records. Weigh yourself every morning and record it. This starts the day with the mindset that you need to focus on your goal. Don’t be so concerned with each individual entry, but look for trends over a week or two. If the number stays the same or goes up steadily, you will need to change something. If it’s trending down, you’re on the right track. It’s also important to keep a food and exercise diary. You’ll find that you are more likely to stick to a plan if you have to write everything down. It’s also motivating to look back and see progress toward your goal.

“So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God”. - 1 Corinthians 10:31