There is a problem inherent in all weight loss programs: they are utterly compliance-dependent. Weight loss programs are, by definition, comprised of a series of steps. If these steps are not taken, even the most efficacious program will fail. If the steps are taken successfully, even an average program will yield at least some results.

          Underlying each step is a decision (to do or not do) and behind each of these decisions are mental and emotional phenomena and mechanics. These must be understood and resolved before any program is undertaken. It was the great Sun Tzu who said, “Victorious warriors win first and then go to war, while defeated warriors go to war first and then seek to win.” He was correct; the mental game must be won first!

          What follows is a 3-step plan to win the mental game and achieve weight loss results.

Step One: Choose Certainty

It is commonly believed that certainty is a conclusion based on proof and experience. This is incorrect. Certainty is a choice.

          People seem to hold on to doubt because they perceive it will protect them from failure or imagined harm. This is a terrible strategy as doubt kills possibility. Its presence tends to dictate both if a person participates in a beneficial activity and how they participate in the activity once chosen.

          It can be difficult to know which path to choose when it comes to a topic as hotly debated as weight loss. It is certainly the case that some programs are more effective than others. Do the proper research. Make sure it’s a sound and sensible program.

          Once the decision has been made, choose to be certain it will work. Leave all doubts at the door, as they are not beneficial to success. Half-heartedness and constant questioning have never been, and will never be, strategies for achieving outstanding results.

Step Two: Be Aware of Resentments

Nobody wants to begin a weight loss program. Nobody wants to be in a situation where they have to lose weight. It is a “have to” and it runs directly counter to one of our greatest desires: the desire to be free. Weight loss programs are nothing if not constraints against freedoms and pleasures. This brings with it many resentments which lead to internal conflict.

          If a person grits their teeth and resorts to willpower to overcome this urge, it can work, at least for a little while. The problem is that it involves force and will ensure the war continues. There can be no victory when the enemy is ourselves.

          The solution, then, is that we must first become aware of our resentments. What freedoms does one sacrifice when beginning a weight loss journey? Write these down. Shine the light of truth on it and see if those resentments don’t release their grip a bit.

Step Three: Gird Yourself for the Effort

Effort is an inherent and necessary component of any weight loss program and, yet, people are often unprepared or unwilling to expend it. They assume that effort (along with energy, money and time) are scarce resources and that giving them up will feel painful. Rest assured, these resources are renewable and limited only by the perception that they should be held onto tightly.

          It’s helpful for a person to think about how much effort they’re willing to put forth and figure out the limits of this willingness. These results reveal the likelihood of achieving the desired results. Grant Cardone suggests in his book, The 10X Rule, that a person should be willing to multiply their efforts by 10 times to ensure success.

          Essentially, uncertainty will lead to resentment and a lack of willingness to expend resources. Resentment will lead to uncertainty and a lack of willingness to expend resources. An unwillingness to expend resources will certainly lead to uncertainty and resentment. Sometimes we forget about how strong we really are and what we have overcome in our lives. The solution to these problems starts with the awareness that they exist and a willingness to take them on.

Location: ThinTech Weight Loss & Nutrition, 20 Commerce Dr., Ste. 135, Cranford. For more information and to schedule an appointment, call 973-602-7177 or visit NutriMost.com/cranford-nj-07016.