How positive thinking can help you reach your weight loss and life goals

It’s all in the power of your mind. Yep, that’s right. Research shows that those who are determined to succeed, more likely do.

The same applies when it comes to weight loss. You’ve got all the tools to succeed – the books, the shakes, meal plans, activewear – theoretically, you’re halfway there.

So why when you know what you need to do, do you struggle to do it and find you’re still not reaching your goals?

Whether it’s weight loss related or other goals, a positive mindset is key and is often the difference between success and failure.

If you find yourself stuck in a negative pattern of thinking, give these top tips a go. After all, you’ve got nothing to lose and your goals to gain.

Top tips to having a more positive outlook on life

1. Acknowledge your negative thoughts

Trying to ignore your negative thoughts actually has the opposite effect, they keep popping up and eventually start affecting the way you behave.

By acknowledging your negative thoughts, you can objectively rationalise reality from the story you tell yourself.

So instead of “I haven’t got the time to work out this morning, I’m never going to lose weight” try “I haven’t got the time to work out this morning but I can walk to work/school/the supermarket which will count as exercise for today”.

2. Positive people are more successful

Surround yourself with positive people and eventually, you’ll start to feel encouraged, positive and persevere in reaching your goals.

You will definitely experience doubt, failure and uncertainty but when you surround yourself with positive support, you build resilience so you can get back on track when you fall.

The Healthy Mummy Facebook groups are excellent for being in a supportive community and a great way to start to reach out to other mums on their weight loss journey.

3. Be realistic about failure and success

Quite often we set unrealistic goals and when we fail, we dwell on it.

Studies have shown that by imagining failure and recovery, instead of the end goal, made people more likely to succeed in reaching their goals.

This has been attributed to the building of resilience and also being realistic about the fact that failure is a part of life. Once we accept it and move on, instead of dwelling on it, a positive mindset is easier to maintain.

Start your day with one of our yummy Healthy Mummy Smoothies.

4. Find a positive morning routine and stick to it

There are some things in life you can’t change; nocturnal babies, work/life balance or busy schedules.

So creating an intentional positive mindset every morning will help you regain some focus.

You may not have control over others but you are in control of yourself and your attitude. Set your alarm ten minutes early to meditate, go for a brisk walk or to make a list of what you need to accomplish that day.

It will set you up positively for the day ahead. If you find yourself deviating from your positive mindset then practice shifting negative thoughts to more positive ones.

Unfortunately, this takes practice but once mastered, you will be able to develop a strong positive morning routine.

5. Know your triggers

A lot of negative thinking stems from deep-seated issues, perhaps it’s a learnt behaviour from childhood or self-esteem issues.

Once you start being more self-aware and begin identifying your triggers and when they are happening, the negative thought will be easier to get rid of.

A good way to track your triggers is by writing down thoughts or circumstances before, during and after the negative patterns. Do this for a couple of weeks and then review them. You may uncover unhealthy habits or patterns that were not previously obvious to you.

If you need extra help, seek assistance from a health professional

If you’re finding it difficult to shift your negative thinking to a positive one or if your negative thoughts are starting to disrupt your life drastically, it maybe time to seek help from you GP.

Getting the support you need

One in seven women in Australia suffers from postnatal depression and one in ten new fathers also experience postnatal depression, says Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia (PANDA).

If you or someone you know is struggling, then remember you are not alone. Have a look at our story on what every mum who has experienced PND needs to hear as well as our postnatal depression archives for ways to get the help you deserve.

For more on the signs and symptoms of postnatal depression visit www.panda.org.au. 

Support

PANDA National Helpline www.panda.org.au – 1300 726 306

Beyond Blue www.beyondblue.org.au 1300 224 636

Join our Healthy Mummy support groups for support through other mums, judgement-free!