How to set weight loss goals and make them happen.

The previous chapter talked about considering what motivates you. You might not have taken pen in hand and scribbled your goals on Post-it notes, but hopefully you thought about this. (If not go back and reread Setting Realistic Goals and come back when you have some clearly defined goals.)

So, time to set your goals in action. If it's eating healthier, take out your calendar and mark off the changes by week. How can you most easily make this a part of your life? Here are some suggestions for each weekly goal:

Goal: Planning
Sit down each weekend and plan the 21 meals for the coming week.
Make a shopping list for your meals and go shopping for great ingredients.
Figure out when you are going to eat leftovers, when you're going to eat out, and when you'll eat a convenience meal.

Goal: Eat healthier
Stop drinking soda (including diet soda).
Clean out your pantry of processed / boxed foods..
Fill your house with nuts to snack on.
Fill your house with fruit to snack on.
Focus on one meal.  Start with a better lunch then a better breakfast. Move to snacks and dinner later.

Goal: Lose weight
Start a food diary and write down everything you eat. (See How to Keep a Food Diary)
Buy a food scale.
Buy a scale for yourself.
Write your target weights for the week down each Monday on your calendar.

Goal: Exercise more
Plan your exercise days.
Join a gym.
Get your bike fixed.

You get the idea. It's one thing to have a goal and the second step is to figure out just how you are going to get to that goal.

Lastly, keep in mind that eating better and being healthier is not about 3 weeks from now or even 3 months or 3 years. This is about making significant lifelong change. Plan for that and you'll be successful for sure.