If you’ve recently lost a significant amount of weight, you’re probably experiencing an increase in self-confidence and overall well-being. Although shedding a substantial amount of extra pounds is a serious accomplishment that deserves celebration, nagging thoughts in the back of your mind that this may not last may be part of the picture as well. Fortunately, proactive strategies exist designed to help you keep the pounds from creeping back on, from resizing your jewelry to exploring new fitness options and activities. Following are eight essential actions to consider after you’ve achieved your weight loss goals:
1- Resize Your Jewelry
The change in body size caused by weight loss affects the fit of jewelry as well as that of clothing. Rings, bracelets, and necklaces often become loose and uncomfortable, and in some cases, such as with bracelets and rings, there’s an added risk of them slipping off unnoticed, causing them to pose a safety hazard or become lost. Visiting a local jeweler and resizing your jewelry pieces to fit your new body comfortably and safely not only ensures that your accessories remain secure but also provides a symbolic way to mark your physical transformation.
2- Tailor Your Clothing
Although you’ll definitely want to purchase some new items of clothing to commemorate your new, slim figure, there are likely a few wardrobe pieces that you’ll want to hang onto. Additionally, shelling out for an entire new wardrobe may not be a realistic move for you. Rather than feeling frustrated and frumpy with ill-fitting clothing, invest in tailoring services to adjust your outfits to your new size. Not only will you get to keep your cherished favorites, but professionally tailored clothing will accentuate your slimmer body, they’ll also boost your confidence and help you feel comfortable in your own skin.
3- Prioritize Your Health
Losing weight is an accomplishment in its own right, but maintaining good health is an ongoing journey. Schedule a comprehensive physical exam with your doctor to assess the overall status of your health, and be sure to discuss any concerns you may have about keeping the pounds off. Together, you and your doctor can devise a realistic and doable plan for maintaining your weight loss.
4- Explore New Fitness Activities
Seeking new fitness challenges is a natural step after achieving weight loss goals. Experiment with a range of exercise types such as yoga, Pilates, cycling, dancing, or swimming. Not only will this approach keep workouts exciting and engaging, but it will also help you discover new abilities and strengths that you didn’t know you had.
5- Set Up Accountability
Accountability is an essential component in maintaining successful long-term weight management. Support groups, a fitness buddy, or a personal trainer are all good options for helping to hold you accountable. Having another person to share triumphs and setbacks with provides motivation as well as encouragement when you need it the most.
6- Reevaluate Your Goals
Weight loss is only one step in your journey toward a healthy lifestyle. Reassessing goals and setting new ones that align with your current priorities play an important role in keeping you focused and motivated. Consider improving your fitness level by building muscle or learning a new sport or physical activity.
7- Nourish Your Body
Don’t forget about the role proper nutrition plays in maintaining your optimal weight and supporting overall good health. Nourish your body with nutritious foods that provide important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and don’t be afraid of experimenting with new recipes and flavors.
8- Celebrate Your Success
Don’t underestimate the extent to which celebrating your success can help you maintain your newfound status quo. Whether it’s treating yourself to a day at your favorite local spa, booking a fun and/or luxurious weekend getaway, or simply indulging in your favorite healthy meal, rewarding yourself for your hard work and dedication to weight loss helps keep motivation alive.
Perhaps most importantly, don’t give up if you find that a few pounds have crept back on. This is not uncommon, so keep in mind that setbacks are part of the journey and that tomorrow is a new day.
