Those Last 8 Pounds

<i>Two strategies that get rid of those last 8 pounds.<br>Photo/Mojave Desert</i>

Two strategies that get rid of those last 8 pounds.
Photo/Mojave Desert

I have been dieting and exercising for about 6 months now and have lost 30 pounds the right way, which is a good feeling. My questions is about losing those last 8 pounds. I have been stuck at a weight now for several weeks and have not been able to keep up the 1-2 pound per week of weight-loss. I was wondering what are some strategies to lose those last 8 pounds to get to my goal weight.

Good morning,

Think of it this way. You're on a highway approaching a stop light. You apply the brakes and slow down until completely stopped. If you apply the brakes too soon, you stop before reaching the light. Apply the brakes too late and overshoot the light. Six months ago you made changes to your diet and began exercising. You cruised down the highway, losing 30 lbs. Now you need to make adjustments to get to the light, to lose those last 8 pounds.

Every successful weight loss effort I've seen made the following two changes at one point or another before reaching their ideal weight and size...

FOCUS: Rather than focus on a goal of, for example, losing 38 lbs., expand your horizon. Make your goal instead to live a thin life naturally. Kiss the 30 lbs. you lost goodbye, forget about it. Your body is different now. More muscle, less fat, more efficient metabolism. Now you want to lose a little bit more and live that way for the rest of your life. Right?

ADJUST: Increase or decrease the amount of exercise and calories consumed. Don't be surprised if weight loss slows down the closer you get to your goal. That's actually a good sign you're on the right track.

Do this, check your weight (or size if that is your benchmark) ONCE per month. As long as there is a decrease, keep doing what you're doing. Even if it's only a single pound, or even a half-pound. On the other hand, if there is no change or an increase in weight, then make adjustments. Decrease calories and/or increase physical activity.

Remember, check your results only once per month then make any adjustments necessary, wait another month before checking again. And place your focus were it needs to be to see you through to the big enchilada, living thin naturally, without effort, for life!

Thanks for writing in. I'm asked about "those last few pounds" often. In most cases folks make a few minor adjustments and reach their goal. Some find their original idea of what they should weigh is unrealistic. At this point, it's about finding the balance between the weight, shape and size you want; eating habits you're happy and comfortable with; and amount of physical activity. That's living thin for life naturally!

Thanks again for the question,

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