Losing weight is always a challenge for some, but for those of us who have busy lives (and let’s face it who doesn’t) it can be even more frustrating. We live in a culture of fast-fixes and fast foods designed for the woman on the go, but most of these options aren’t very healthy and certainly don’t encourage weight loss.
So what can you do?
We’ve got 10 tips that will help you meet your weight loss goals while still keeping up with your bustling day to day.
One: Planning, Planning, Planning
One of the most important things you can do to lose weight when you’re busy is make a meal plan. If you don’t prepare it’s easy to fall into bad habits of grabbing something out of the local coffee shop or whichever drive-thru is on the way home. These on the spot decisions are some of the biggest culprits sabotaging weight loss efforts. Instead, be sure that you make a plan and stick to it.
Two: Make Time For You
You have no problem scheduling in that late appointment, or the meeting with the prospective client, but it’s more than likely that you don’t write yourself in nearly enough. One of the biggest keys to weight loss is making sure you get in those important workouts, so start writing them into your calendar. It’s easier to stick to something if it’s down on paper.
Three: Make Yourself Accountable
Years ago tracking your calories was a time consuming and tedious task. Now however there are all sorts of apps, websites, and programs that will do most of the work for you. Keeping track of what you put in your body can quickly make you aware of where your trouble areas really are. How many calories does that late night snack cost you, and is it really worth it?
Four: Portions
Portions are another thing that is tricky to master. If you’re like us it’s easy to misunderstand portion sizes, one of the best ways to deal with this is to get yourself a scale and use measuring cups. More often than not, you will realize a healthy portion size is a lot different from what you thought it was.
Five: Keep The Good Stuff Close
How many times have you forgotten breakfast, or simply skipped it because you were in a hurry? One way to help combat this and get in the habit of eating a healthy breakfast is to keep a backup at work. There are many options for healthy breakfasts you can keep right in your desk drawer. Eating breakfast will help stave off hunger, and keep you from wanting to snack throughout the day.
Six: After Dinner Drinks?
Most weight loss experts will tell you to forgo the alcohol all together, but we understand most people won’t stick to that – so why not set a goal you can meet. Instead of having two or three glasses of wine, stick to one, and avoid the sugary high calorie mixed drinks. If you stick to one glass of wine, you will find you are saving yourself many calories while still being able to indulge.
Seven: Out Of Sight Out Of Mind
Emptying out the fridge and pantry of the heavily processed foods and sugary treats you’re used to won’t be an easy step, but getting these things out-of-sight will truly help keep them off your waist.
Eight: Restock
On the flipside of out-of-sight, you should fill your kitchen with healthy options and keep them at eye level and in sight. Having what is good for you on hand makes it easier to eat in a way that will help you stay on your weight loss journey.
Nine: Cook In Bulk
Coming home after a long day at work and making a healthy meal can feel like it’s more effort than it’s worth. One way to combat this problem is to make time on the weekend to do large batches of cooking. You can do a lot if you take advantage of all your appliances, throw something healthy together in your slow cooker that you can enjoy for lunches throughout the week, and roast up chicken and veggies in the oven for dinners. The freezer can be your biggest asset because you can freeze mini meals in Tupperware to have on hand all week.
Ten: Don’t Underestimate The Power Of Water
Water is so often overlooked, and is actually one of the most powerful tools in your arsenal. One thing you can do to help ensure you avoid over eating is make sure you are always properly hydrated. Get a water bottle you can take anywhere with you and make sure you always have it on hand.