My tips for weight loss (for newbies)

So I have been on Myfitnesspal for over a year now and have done a little trial and error with my weight loss and just wanted to share some of my tips with the newbies who are just starting their journey.

1. NEVER GIVE UP!! This is important because believe me you are going to want to give up a lot of times but just remember you will never get anywhere or become happier if you don't at least try.

2. Celebrate the small victories. If you lose 0.1 pounds or up to five pounds when you weigh in, it is still a loss and celebrate it. Every little bit counts toward your weight loss goals.

3. In reference to number 2, do not weigh yourself daily because you are going to have varying weight day to day. That could be due to many different factors. Don't stress!!

4. When you splurge, don't binge. Also allow yourself at least one day when you can splurge because the more you tell yourself you don't need a specific food, the more you want it!

5. Set realistic long term and short term weight loss goals. For myself my short term are to fit into a size 8-10 wedding dress for my wedding in two months. Long term is to finish to my goal so that I can look good in a bikini next March for my honeymoon.

6. Only have supportive people in your life encouraging you every step of the way. We all have people in our lives that may be jealous that we have taken the step to bettering our lives through weight loss. Inform them of what you are doing, maybe they are in the same boat and could use a buddy. If they continue to bring you down, you don't need their negativity in your life. I have learned this lesson the hard way this year.

7. Log your calories and exercise on MFP as often as possible so that you can get into the habit of watching your calories. You will be amazed at how routine it will become especially when you go out to eat. It will help to improve your awareness of what you eat.

8. Find varied ways to exercise. There are so many different exercises logged into MFP already. Just keep moving. I am currently engaged in Zumba which is a fun and awesome workout. You can burn anywhere from 500-800 calories in one hour of zumba. Check out the website www.zumbacalories.com to see how many calories you have burned in relation to your weight and length of workout. Even if you have to get a pedometer and log your workout in the office.

9. NEVER GIVE UP!! I have to keep stressing this point!

10. Know that the people you form bonds with on MFP are there for you unconditionally. They are here to encourage, support and lift you up when you feel like giving up and that you are not going to reach your goals. I am here as a support, so feel free to add me but send a message with your request.

Lastly, I know us MFP and weight loss veterans know that these tips may be general knowledge but for someone who hasn't started their journey, it may be beneficial and please feel free to add your own tips and to post successes! Since starting MFP I have lost 20 pounds! :-) I have lost a lot more but gained it back but you know what I have still maintained this 20 pound loss for awhile and that is an accomplishment I am proud of!!

Happy losing!! :-)