Every January 1st, it’s the same thing: your New Year’s resolution to lose weight and get in shape starts out strong. You hit the gym for intense daily workouts. You commit to cutting out all carbs and sugar from your diet. You count your calories and weigh your portions down to the very last ounce.

Then, somewhere around the middle of the month – or maybe even toward the end of the first week – your resolve begins to falter. Sore muscles set in, hindering your progress at the gym. Sugar cravings rear their ugly heads, and after one too many kale and wheatgrass smoothies, you can no longer say no to the allure of a donut (or two). Having failed at your initial goal of perfection, you start asking yourself: What’s the point? By February, you’re back to your old habits – and your old weight.

But this year can be different. This can be the year you actually lose the weight. By changing your strategy and shifting your mindset, you can stay motivated all the way through to December 31st. Here are some tips to help show you how.

1. Set realistic weight loss goals

It’s tempting to start out gung-ho with lofty goals – Give up carbs completely! Do daily high intensity strength training! – but by aiming too high, you’re more likely to fall behind. Allow yourself occasional indulgences of the foods you crave the most, and ease yourself gradually into your new exercise routine. This will help lay the foundation for long-term success.

2. Learn to forgive yourself

All too often, when we skip a workout or eat an extra brownie, we consider ourselves having “failed” at our weight loss goals. But one mistake does not equal total defeat. Every moment offers a chance to start over. Forgive yourself for slipping up, recommit to your initial goals, and keep moving forward.

3. Reduce the temptation to eat unhealthy foods

If ice cream is your trigger food, don’t keep a container of Häagen-Dazs hanging around in your freezer. It will only make it easier for you to give in to cravings – and to feel bad about yourself for doing so. Instead, load your fridge up with healthy snacks, like fruits and veggies, so you can satisfy your hunger without those extra calories.

4. Make losing weight fun.

Losing weight can be a drag. Restrictions, rules, and routines: it all seems like such a chore. But what if you transformed your weight loss program into something you look forward to? Workouts don’t have to be boring. Here in San Diego, the gym isn’t your only option; you can go for a run on the beach or ride your bike in Balboa Park. And you can transform your meals into an adventure by finding exciting new recipes or testing out health-conscious eateries in your neighborhood.

5. Create a support network for weight loss

Talk to your friends and family members about your goals, or join a weight loss support group, either in person or online. Sharing your desires and fears about losing weight with other people can go a long way in terms of keeping you motivated throughout the year. If you ever feel like giving up, they’ll be there to offer kind words, encouragement, and accountability.

Bonus Tip #6: Medarts Weight Loss Specialists in San Diego

Sometimes, it can help to have a team of experts overseeing your weight loss journey and helping you stay on track throughout the year. At Medarts Weight Loss Clinic in San Diego, our certified weight loss specialists will customize a program to fit your individual needs. Using the latest medical and technological advances, we can help you shed pounds quickly and safely, while providing you with one-on-one care and attention.

Turn your New Year’s resolution into a lifelong habit. Call us at (619) 866-3333 and speak to one of our highly qualified specialists today.