Losing weight and keeping it off can seem like an unattainable goal. 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 successful?

First and foremost, you need to figure out what you want to accomplish and set mini goals to help you reach your ultimate weight loss goal. Is there an occasion you want to drop the pounds for? Do you have a specific weight loss goal in mind? Is more energy important to you, or do you need to lose weight for medical reasons? These are the types of questions you should consider.

Make sure to log your progress on a weekly basis. Start a weight loss diary, making note of your weight on a weekly basis. Keep a food log in the journal of everything you consume each day. This way you can see what you are eating, both good and bad, which may result in your making healthier choices.

If you're hungry, don't make rash decisions in regards to food. When you are hungry, you lose sight of your goals. Avoid this by planning each of your meals and snacks in advance. Try bringing your lunch from home to avoid restaurants. This can help you save money and lose weight.

Successful weight loss includes not only a healthy diet, but also a good workout routine. Find exercise that you like and do it regularly. If you find yourself having trouble getting enough exercise, you should think of a way to incorporate exercise into the things you enjoy doing. Go for a walk with your friends when you hang out. Look into taking a dance class, if you like dancing. If you're a hiking enthusiast, consider hiking some new trails!

Eliminate junk food from your home, your place of business, and any other place that you frequent on a regular basis. It may seem cruel, but the reality is that if it isn't there, you won't be tempted to eat it. After removing the junk food, stock those areas with healthy food choices that will be readily available to you. Keep a lot of healthy snacks on hand, such as fruit, nuts and vegetables, so that you will have something healthy to snack on when you are hungry.

Developing a solid support system can help you lose weight. While your friends and family cannot lose weight for you, the support they provide is invaluable in keeping you motivated. When things get really hard, and you hit the point where you just want to give up, reach out to someone who supports you. It can change your mindset and make all the difference.