Lasting weight loss can sometimes seem unattainable. Good intentions aren't always enough to overcome the frustration of those sore muscles from your first workouts. What can you do to make sure you're a success?

When you are first getting started you need to establish a weight loss goal. Do you want to lose some pounds and be able to fit into your clothes? Do you want to achieve a target weight? Is getting fit and having more energy critical to you?

When you keep track of what you are doing, you will know how far along you are in your weight loss goals. If you keep track of everything you eat and drink each day and weigh yourself weekly, it will help you to decide if you need to make changes. Usually, the simple act of writing everything down is enough to persuade you to make better eating decisions.

When you become too hungry, you get irrational in your food choices. Do not make this common diet mistake. Plan out what you want to eat a day or two in advance. When you leave for the day, have food with you. Going forward, practice the art of packing a brown bag lunch. Not only will this help you lose weight, but you will save money too.

The most effective way to lose weight is to combine a healthy diet with increased physical activity. It is not necessary to exercise 7 days a week, but you should do so at least 3 or 4. If exercise appears to be boring or tedious to you, you should try to find other activities that are more fun and enjoyable to incorporate into your workout routine. For instance, if dancing is your thing, it might be fun to enroll in a dance class.

The less junk food you have laying around, the less likely you will be to eat it. Unhealthy eating habits are usually due to your environment. By keeping things such as fruits, veggies and granola bars stocked in your house, you will be more likely to choose these more healthy treats. Get rid of snacks that are full of sugars and empty calories.

Have your friends help you meet your weight targets. Having a support group of friends and family helps tremendously in the weight loss process. External encouragement and motivation can keep you on track even if you are going through a rough patch. When you are losing your motivation, lean on these people for additional support.