Dropping pounds is not always easy. Especially when you lose interest or enthusiasm. Diet and exercise can be a real chore sometimes. But you don't have to let it get you down. I've put together 3 secrets to help you out when you need motivation to lose weight. Check out these tips:

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1. Be Positive: There really is such a thing as "mind over matter." Believe it and you can achieve it! If you want to succeed in shedding those pounds you have to keep a positive attitude. You can't lose it with happy thoughts alone, of course. But you can really make the most of your efforts by staying committed, driven, and positive throughout the process. When you're feeling overwhelmed or unmotivated think of your wellness. Remember that you will be a healthier, more energetic person in the long run. Its not all about waistline and the number on the scale. Those numbers will come down. But, in the meantime, focus on the results of living a healthier lifestyle and it will be much easier to keep your efforts up.

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2. Set Goals: How much weight do you want to lose? What size do you want to fit into? How far do you wan to be able to walk or run? These are the sort of questions you should be asking yourself. Who wants to go on a trip that just meanders with no real destination? Make a plan by setting multiple goals. Picture yourself at the perfect weight. What is that weight? Write it down. There are ebbs and flows to weight loss. So, some weeks you may see significant loss and others you may maintain. That's just part of the process. Count on dropping 1-2 pounds per week. If your goal weight is 20 pounds less than you currently weight, then you're looking at about 10-25 weeks for a long term goal. Now set smaller goals to reach along the way. Shoot for 6-8 pounds each month. Small goals help you gauge whether you're on track. When you are, celebrate and reward yourself. If you're not, you can see what is not working and adjust.

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3. The Power of Color: Did you know that there is such a thing as an excitable color? Red will amp you up! Its true. If you're feeling particularly unmotivated to workout tomorrow, put on something red. I know it sounds a bit wacky, but the color red encourages the flow of energy and excites the mind. It won't do the workout for you, but it may be just the edge you need to get out the door with a positive attitude.