BradHoffmann.com

I really appreciate the affirmation and encouragement regarding a healthier me over the past several of months. This new health journey began nearly 90 days ago with a goal of losing 33 pounds, getting into better physical shape and reducing some medications. To date I’m just a couple of pounds shy of my goal, I’m in better physical condition with one medication reduced and another eliminated all together by my physician. This has been a huge move for me.

If I were to give anyone encouragement along the way in their journey, I’d suggest the following:

• Place your exercise routine on the calendar. Whether you are an early riser or a night owl, there’s always opportunity to exercise. But, you won’t do it unless you put in on the calendar. If you’re an early morning person like me, put your clothes out the night before, fix the coffee pot before you go to bed and set the alarm a few minutes earlier so you can at least hit the snooze button once without feeling too guilty.
• Talk with a dietician and/or a personal trainer. A dietician can help you with nutritional planning and a personal trainer can assist you with an exercise routine to fit your goals.
• Keep track of what you’re eating. There’s a great app that I use called MyFitnessPal that keeps track of calories, carbs, protein and fats.
• Set small goals along the way as you work toward your ultimate goal. Celebrate each accomplishment.
• Go to the department store and try on new clothes. This really is huge. As you lose pounds, you’ll lose inches. There are few things as inspiring for weight loss like trying on the next smaller size and having it fit.
• Cook at home more often. When you prepare meals at home you can better control ingredients and portions. It’s really easier to eat healthy when you cook at home.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Go ahead and turn down the dessert. Even if you’re best friend made you this incredible dessert, graciously thank them for the offer, decline and explain your journey to a healthier you.