6 STAGES OF
Weight Loss
As with countless areas in life, we experience change in stages or phases; the weight loss journey is no different. People often go through six stages of weight loss on their way to creating a permanent lifestyle change regarding their physical body and relationship with food. Some people only experience some of the stages, while others experience all six. Regardless, knowledge is power. Knowing the stages will help you recognize where you stand and what may come next.
The Honeymoon
1
You gush about your new diet to anyone who will listen. Your expectations are sky-high, and so is your motivation. You feel excited, ready, and willing to do whatever it takes to lose weight. You can’t wait to achieve your goal and are 100% committed to your efforts. You adhere to your meal plan and track everything you eat and drink.
Kristen T. lost 190 lbs.
Frustration & Reality setting in
2
The thrill depletes and reality sets in. Frustration builds as weight loss begins to slow down. You may say: “I only lost 1 lb this week” or “Why can’t I lose weight faster?” You realize that planning for weight loss success can be tedious and time consuming. This is the time to get the support you need and reconnect with your “why” (the reasons you decided to lose weight in the first place).
3
Tentative Acceptance: “It’s finally sinking in.”
The reality of losing weight finally sets in. You have a clearer set of expectations while understanding how the process works. You can actually see yourself reaching your weight loss goals but realize it will take time and effort. You may also be ready to be more consistent about exercising, following your meal plan, and everything else that goes along with building new healthy habits.
This stage feels great and you would love it to last forever. Unfortunately, as most of you know, it doesn’t last forever.
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