How to set a weight loss goal?

If you’re wanting to lose weight one of the most important first steps is to set a good weight loss goal. You need to have something to work towards, that motivates you and keeps you accountable. Here is a simple five-step process for setting a weight loss goal:

Work backwards from your ideal weight – Goals are always best set backwards. You need to know where you are going before you will know which direction to set off in.

Figure out dream weight goal – What is your ultimate long-term goal? Don’t worry about considering how you are going to do it, or how long it will take at this point. Just note where you would really love to be.

Break that down into bite-sized chunks – Take that number and break it down into 12-week chunks. Keep each 12-week goal a stretch, but realist and achievable for you. Depending on how much weight you’d like to lose there could be one or multiple 12-week blocks.

Focus on the 12-week goal – Now make a plan focused only on the first 12-week goal. This shorter goal gives you something achievable on the horizon to aim for and saves the task from seeming insurmountable. 12-weeks is long enough to see significant changes, but short enough to have a sense of urgency.

Have a deadline, then re-assess – Commit to going through your plan for the 12-weeks, set a hard deadline and then reassess at that point. What went well? What did you struggle with? What will you change next time? Make any adjustments as needed, and then set the next 12-week target.