When we are losing weight we often find ourselves very focused on what the scales say and if it doesn’t move – we can feel very down.

Worst if you weight multiply times a day (avoid doing this).

But during every weight loss journey there will be weeks where we stick to the weight loss plan but the scales don’t move.

So, it’s important to focus on more than just the scales when losing weight.

Additionally, losing weight on the scales should not be the sole reason for making dietary changes.

Think about it, if you are very low weight on the scales but aren’t eating properly, lost a lot of muscle mass and are deficient in many nutrients, you are unlikely to feel well and keep that weight off long term.

So, have other goals you are trying to achieve during your weight loss journey, aim to make this a health journey.

Here are a few other goals to focus on:

• Reduction in waist circumference or other body measures: Aim for an eventual waist circumference under 80cm for women and under 94cm for men
• Drop in clothes size or a notch on the belt
• More energy, feeling good and healthier
• Being able to do the little things e.g. tie shoe laces, walk up the stairs without puffing, go shopping for groceries easier
• Being able to exercise or increase exercise
• Improvement in health in general
• Reduction in medication dose
• Improvement in dietary habits– knowing that you are looking after your body and health

If you focus on the whole picture rather than just the scales, those weeks when the scales don’t move won’t phase you as much but rather motivate you to keep on track. A future article will look at what can be done if a weight plateau persists.