4 Easy Strategies to Simplify Your Weight Loss Efforts

When it comes to weight loss SIMPLE WORKS and COMPLEX FAILS. Don't let your mind get in the way by complicating things. Instead focus on 4 simple strategies.

After years of struggling with losing weight and keeping it off I now realize a big problem is our tendency to complicate the whole weight loss process and overwhelm ourselves by trying to do too much all at once.

While losing weight is NEVER easy, it is NOT complicated either. In fact lasting weight loss is actually very SIMPLE. The key is to stick with the basics, start small, and not overwhelm ourselves by trying to do too much too soon.

Here are four easy strategies to simplify your weight loss efforts...
 

4 Easy Strategies to Simplify Weight Loss

Simple Weight Loss Strategy #1: Breathe & Hydrate

Make breathing & water top priorities. Take deep breaths whenever you feel you're about to make poor food decisions or feeling stressed. Make it a habit to drink more water and watch your food habits change!

Simple Weight Loss Strategy #2: Focus

Focus on 1 or 2 simple tasks each week. Less is more. Don't try to overhaul your whole way of life. Just choose one or two simple changes.

For example focus on eating an extra vegetable at dinner or choosing an apple instead cookies as your afternoon snack. Commit to just those one or two to-do's and you'll surprise yourself when you adopt additional healthy habits. I call it the step-by-step approach.

Portrait of woman eating chocolate Oreo cookies with a glass of milk

Simple Weight Loss Strategy #3: Pause and Think Before You Eat

Ask yourself, "What will this food do for me?" You'll be surprised how many times the answer is "nothing." Ask it over and over again until it becomes a reflex. Soon you'll find yourself backing away from the buffet and cookie jar before going overboard.

Related: The Power of Self Talk for Staying on Track with Your Weight Loss Goals

Simple Weight Loss Strategy #4: Take One Day at a Time

We all know what we "should" do when it comes to weight loss. The problem is actually doing it. So focus on doing what you "should do" just for today. You don't have to say no to everything forever, just long enough to realize that it might not be as bad as you think.

So, for the next 24 hours, focus on doing just for today what will make you happy tomorrow. See how it feels. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised!

Related: 3 Reasons Smart People Struggle with Weight Loss

When it Comes to Lasting Weight Loss, Little Things Mean a Lot!

In fact the right small changes have the potential to deliver huge results and are way less overwhelming than trying to reboot your entire life all at once.

Exactly what my 28-Day Smart Start is all about!

Praise for Simple Nourished Living & the 28-Day Smart Start Challenge...

Hi Martha - This 28-Day Smart Start Challenge has been wonderful. Thank you for all of the support and encouragement. I have definitely made some positive changes that I plan to continue! ~ Bronwyn C.

Dear Martha, You are instrumental in keeping me conscious of my eating habits. Your quotes, encouragement and recipes are helping me. You are a gift. ~ Marlene W.

Martha - I've been on the Weight Watchers program for the last year and your website is a huge help! Over the holidays I've kind of lost some of my initial incentive, so I thought I would try your 28-Day Smart Start Challenge to help me refocus. I would still like to lose about 40 or 50 pounds and then maintain that, which is something I have never been able to do. Thank you so much - I look forward to starting again today! ~ Christie E.