Progress, Not Perfection: 3 Weight Loss Tips to Stick With in the New Year
It’s the start of a new year, and if you’re like a lot of people, you’ve made a resolution to finally get in shape. Maybe you’ve even gone all-in—committing to a strict diet or a new gym routine with big goals in mind. But let’s be real: a few weeks (or months) in, it can start to feel overwhelming, and before you know it, you’re ready to throw in the towel. Sound familiar?
If it does, I want you to know this: you’re not alone, and there’s absolutely nothing to be ashamed of. This cycle of starting strong and then feeling defeated when things don’t go as planned is something so many of us experience.
One big reason this happens is the “all-in mindset.” It’s when we dive headfirst into extreme diets or intense workouts, hoping for quick results. The problem? Being too restrictive with food or pushing your body too hard can backfire—especially when you try to do both at the same time.
Here’s the truth: sustainable weight loss doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time, practice, patience, and a good dose of self-awareness.
So, how do you take that first step without burning out? I’ve got 3 tips to help you get started—and stick with it.
Tip #1: Start small—focus on ONE thing.
Trying to do it all at once is a recipe for burnout. Instead, pick one area to work on first. Maybe that’s adding some fresh fruit to your breakfast, tossing veggies into your lunch or dinner, swapping one soda for water, or finding ways to move a little more during the day. You don’t need to completely overhaul your life to see progress. Once that new habit feels natural, move on to the next!
Tip #2: Don’t let the scale run the show.
This one might feel counterintuitive, but hear me out: focusing too much on the scale can leave you feeling frustrated or anxious. Yes, it’s one way to measure progress, but it’s not the only way—and definitely not the best for everyone. Pay attention to other signs of progress, like having more energy, feeling in a better mood, sleeping better, or noticing how your clothes fit.
Tip #3: Aim for progress, not perfection.
Remember, it’s the small, consistent steps that add up over time. When making choices, think about what feels right for you in the moment. For example, if you’re eating out, maybe you pick grilled chicken over fried or swap fries for a baked sweet potato. And hey, you don’t have to do both—just make the choice that works for you and feels manageable.
Ready to start making changes?
Whether it’s adding more fruits and veggies, stepping away from the scale, or embracing the idea of progress over perfection, small changes can lead to big results. If you’re looking for personalized support on your weight loss journey, I’d love to help. Let’s work together to create a plan that fits your life. Contact me today and take that first step toward your goals—your way!
Remember: this post is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.