“It does not do to leave a live dragon out of your calculations, if you live near one.” – J.R.R. Tolkien
Many of my clients come to see me specifically to reduce their weight. On the surface, they already know what to do. Moreover, they are usually very aware of the habits and patterns that prevent them from achieving the healthy body they desire. However, despite this knowledge, they often struggle to find the motivation needed for consistent follow-through.
At this point, I remind them of something important. Simply by showing up in my office, they have already demonstrated a level of motivation — and therefore, we have something solid to build upon. From there, we can begin working together. In addition to mindset shifts, we explore practical and creative ideas through brainstorming that help support lifestyle changes. As a result, these changes feel easier to transition into and, just as importantly, easier to maintain long term.
“Our goals can only be reached through a vehicle of a plan,
in which we must fervently believe, and upon which we must vigorously act.
There is no other route to success.” – Pablo Picasso
Although Pablo Picasso was a creative genius, he clearly understood that inspiration alone was not enough. Instead, he recognized that achieving what he desired required both a plan and decisive action. Likewise, the same principle applies to weight loss. Without a clear plan in place, it becomes far too easy to give in to temptation and old habits.
Build a Weight Management Business Plan
Any successful venture requires a plan that clearly describes its mission and outlines how success will be achieved. Without one, you may not know where you’re starting, where you’re going, or how you’ll get there. Therefore, it can be helpful to treat your weight-loss goal as a business objective. After all, if you were trying to accomplish something meaningful for a client, you wouldn’t begin without a strategy.
In the same way, it’s time to prioritize your health with the same seriousness. While exercising regularly and reducing calories are essential to losing weight, your mental outlook can ultimately determine whether you succeed or give up. Consequently, mindset becomes the foundation for lasting change.
Begin by creating a personal mission statement. Ideally, it should be clear and concise so that you can repeat it often. Next, make a list of every reason you can think of for wanting to lose weight. As you do this, define your motivation clearly and note any reasons that involve other people.
Then, rewrite the list — this time omitting those highlighted items. Afterward, carefully inspect each remaining reason. Look for phrases such as “have to,” “need to,” or “must.” These words signal obligation rather than desire. Over time, obligation tends to invite resistance and rebellion. Instead, translate each “have to” into a “want to.” If certain reasons lose meaning when reframed, eliminate them and refine the list again.
Once you have clarity around what you truly want to achieve — along with a realistic deadline — begin working backward. First, create a monthly plan of action. Then, break that down into weekly and daily changes. Importantly, make these changes progressive rather than attempting everything at once. Gradual change is far more sustainable.
Additionally, consider how much time you are willing to dedicate to research, meal planning, meditation, and exercise. If you already have a packed schedule, ask yourself what you are willing to release in order to make room. Remember, where you place your time and attention consistently reflects your true priorities.
Finally, putting this plan in writing gives you a powerful tool. On difficult days, it becomes a reminder of why you started. On better days, it becomes proof that you are far more on track than you may have realized.
You have made the decision to quit smoking and you have tried numerous times, still you smoke. Finally, as a last resort, you remember that your Great Aunt Janie quit for life after trying hypnosis and decide to investigate it. After a search online or asking friends, you decide to have an appointment with me. As you drive to see me, you smoke as many cigarettes as you can possibly squeeze in, even lighting one last one up before you come into my office. You are nervous and feeling maybe even a little silly.
