Stage 1: The Honeymoon
You gush about your new diet to anyone who will listen. Your expectations are sky-high, and so is your motivation. You feel excited, ready, and willing to do whatever it takes to lose weight. You can’t wait to achieve your goal and are 100% committed to your efforts. You adhere to your meal plan and track everything you eat and drink.
This stage feels great and you would love it to last forever. Unfortunately, as most of you know, it doesn’t last forever.
Stage 2: Frustration & Reality Set In
The trill depletes and reality sets in. Frustration builds as weight loss begins to slow down. You may say: “I only lost 1 lb this week” or “Why can’t I lose weight faster?” You realize that planning for weight loss success can be tedious and time consuming. This is the time to get the support you need and reconnect with your “why” (the reasons you decided to lose weight in the first place).
Stage 3: Tentative Acceptance
The reality of losing weight finally sets in. You have a clearer set of expectations while understanding how the process works. You can actually see yourself reaching your weight loss goals but realize it will take time and effort. You may also be ready to be more consistent about exercising, following your meal plan, and everything else that goes along with building new healthy habits.
Stage 4: Ambivalence
You’re probably months into your weight loss journey and begin to think: “This is taking forever.” You may grow tired of the routine and bored of your meal plan. This is a crucial time to set new goals and meet with your RM Provider to help you move through this critical phase of your weight loss journey.
Stage 5: Fear of the Future/Success
It doesn’t seem to make sense on the surface, but the underlying fear is real! For some, successfully losing weight brings up anxiety about the future. You wonder: “What will my life be like at a lower weight?” or “Can I maintain my weight loss long-term?”
It may seem silly, but most people who have a significant amount of weight to lose have similar fears. Don’t let the fear of a healthier future prevent you from continuing on your journey to better health. Putting your fears aside is not easy, but it is vital to long-term success.
Stage 6: Success
Congratulations! You are now a successful long-term weight manager. At this stage, you keep up your new habits even when you have had a bad day or week. You cope with stress and emotions in a healthy way. This is a great and perfectly attainable place to be, and the end-goal for every journey to better health.
It is important to remember that you may move in and out of these stages many times before a permanent lifestyle change is made. In fact, expect to alternate between periods of motivation and resolve, and times of frustration where you feel like giving up. However, do not quit! Be patient, as it takes time to develop healthier attitudes, eating habits, and exercise routines. We are here to help you create the healthy lifestyle you want and deserve.
Our dedicated team is here to support you as you take the first step on your journey towards a healthier and happier you. Request an appointment to get started today.
Dr. Kim Feinstein, Psy. D. is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Red Mountain’s Behavioral Weight Loss Specialist. She specializes in weight management, body image concerns, and eating disorders. She prides herself in her ability to educate, guide, and inspire patients to overcome obstacles and ultimately achieve their goals.
