Ok, you’re obviously not alone in this weight loss competition, so how to you set yourself apart from the rest and win? After researching some of the best pieces advice we’ve heard from various experts, we developed our own list of “must do’so”

#1:  Pick a Winning Strategy

There are a million ‘diets’ out there. But, in order for you to be successful at losing weight or winning a competition, the weight loss plan has to be something you can continue doing daily. When you are researching different diets that are out there, make sure it’s something that fits your lifestyle. Don’t forget to develop your workout plan too. Adding a great exercise program can help you shed pounds almost twice as fast when you combine it with a great nutrition plan. Please visit our directory to find diets, personal trainers, gyms or other resources that can help you develop the winning strategy for your lifestyle.

#2:  Have Fun and Keep a Fun Journal:

For most of us, this isn’t the first time we’ve attempted to lose weight. But, this may be the first time, you’ve been asked to have fun while doing it! Every time you feel like falling off the wagon by not working out or eating that extra brownie (my personal weakness), remember how good it feels to make the right eating choices. Before you start this journey, (1) make a list of all the fun and rewarding things you’ll be able to do during your weight loss journey and (2) make another list of all the fun things you’ll be able to do after you’ve reached your goals. For example, two of my favorite fun things to do while losing weight is opportunity to have “me” time at the gym, away from the family. I also like the excuse of being able to splurge on my favorite fruits at the grocery story (even if they aren’t on sale). Once you’ve written your “fun things to do” down, make sure you do at least one thing each day.

#3:  Stay Connected:

We were not created to be alone. Even if you’re a self-motivated introvert like me, you need to surround yourself with positive and encouraging people. If you joined WeightLossandWin individually, make sure you stay connected through our message board, or creating a support group of friends in your profile. If you’ve joined a competition, be sure to invite as many of your friends as possible to compete with you. Not only will this increase the prize money, you’ll be creating memories that will last forever. Even the most motivated person can benefit from surrounding herself or himself with other people!

#4:  Drink Water:

This is one of the oldest, but surest ways to help shed the pounds. It’s your body’s natural way of flushing out the waste.

#5:  Take Good Before & After Pictures:

Pictures can be worth a thousand words, so don’t short change yourself. When taking your before and after pictures, try to show as much of your body as possible so everyone can see your results after you lose the weight. Here are our tips. (1) Wear a bathing suit or shorts with sleeveless shirt to help show your weight loss. (2) Wear the same outfit for pictures (before and after) to make it easier to see the true impact the weight loss has had on your body at the end of the competition. (3) Use the same pose for both pictures (before and after) and (4) Upload multiple pictures to show your maximum weight loss- we recommend a front, side and back view.

#6:  Celebrate your Good Days:

We humans have short and (often) unforgiving memories. To help yourself become your own best cheerleader, get a calendar and place stars on your good days. Yes, I said stars! To be more descriptive, I’m talking about the old-fashioned stars that you used to get in 2nd grade. Do it a few times and you’ll be surprised at how encouraging those metallic stickers can become!

#7:  Don’t Stress About your Bad Days:

The only major accomplishment achieved in one second was your conception. Anything else in this world takes time. You will not gain, nor lose 5 pounds in one day. In order to win the weight loss battle, just take it one moment at a time.

#8:  Prepare, Prepare, Prepare:

We all know preparation is important, but realizing what to prepare for is sometimes tricky! Preparation can eliminate stress and cravings, which are the top sabotagers of weight loss. Here’s a hint. Look at your life and anything that is done in a hurry, should be prepared for in advance. Losing weight can be an anxious experience for many of us. By eliminating as much stress as possible, you’ll be able to focus on having a healthy relationship with your food and body. Be sure to pack snacks and prepare for dinner ahead of time. Personally, my favorite weapon in the kitchen is the family Crockpot!

#9:  Seek Help:

For many of us the struggle with our weight is an emotional battle. Others are coping with a lack of knowledge or motivation. Whatever your weakness, find a therapist, personal trainer, dietitian, nutritionist, wellness expert or personal coach to help you think, react and do things that will make a healthier you. test