It is easy to feel determined and motivated at the beginning of your new weight loss plan. Most people do not stick to their plan. Why can some people maintain their weight after losing it? How can I discover the magic needed to make this incredible progress possible? What is that secret?

Start by creating a detailed weight loss plan you know you can follow. You need to decide whether you are doing this primarily for fitness or weight loss purposes. Is there a particular weight you have in mind? Or is increasing your energy and endurance what's important to you?

Keep a record of your progress. Write things down, such as caloric intake, foods you ingest and beverages you choose. Have a food diary and keep track of your weight every single week. Within the journal, create a food log to keep track of all the food you eat each day. This way you can see what you are eating, both good and bad, which may result in your making healthier choices.

When you become too hungry, you get irrational in your food choices. Stay away from this trap. Make sure you plan out your meals and snacks ahead of time. Always have them handy when you are on the go. Make it a point to bring your lunch from home. This is not only rewarding for your waistline, but your wallet will thank you as well.

It is very important to eat healthy and exercise. You must exercise a minimum of three days each week, but more is even better! You should plan to do something you enjoy so this does not seem like such a challenge to you. If you like having long conversations with your friends, you can go with them for a walk. Short hikes on a nature trail or even just a walk through the neighborhood park can satisfy your thirst for the great outdoors and get you some exercise! If you enjoy dancing you should take a class and learn a new routine.

Eliminate unhealthy food options from all places that you spend time at. If you do not have the junk food around, you will not be able to easily indulge in it. Make sure that you replace this junk food with more healthy options. Be prepared for sudden snack attacks by having plenty of ready-to-eat foods on hand, such as carrot and celery sticks, fruit, seeds and other nutritious treats.

Support from family, friends or online can be a fantastic way to keep up with your weight loss goals. Have your friends give you support and encouragement. Your friends can give you a much-needed lift when your are out of motivation. Your friends can be great motivators when you feel like being a couch potato and not working towards your goals. You know you'd do the same if the tables were turned.