When you’re losing weight you invest emotionally in the number on the scale. Seeing it go down is part of the motivation of your weight loss journey but that hovering needle can also make you want to jump on the scale too often or wherever you see a set. This is not a good way to proceed. Here’s how to make the scales your friend.
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1. Use the Same Scale
Scales do not always tell the same story. They are not always precise or accurate. Your scale may read a couple of pounds more compared to the scale you have at the gym. Use the same set of scales every time you want to take a reading. This will help you measure your weight changes consistently.
2. Take Your Readings at the Same Time
Weighing yourself daily is not a great idea (once a week is sufficient), but if you must do it, be sure to select a specific time of the day to take your readings. The best time is first thing in the morning. You will get misleading results if you do it right after a meal one day and the next day do it when you have not eaten anything at all. Your weight changes by a pound or two throughout the day; therefore, consistency is very important.
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3. Keep Track
One of the most important rules for weighing yourself is to maintain a record. Whenever you use the scale, be sure to make note of your readings. This will help you understand if you are consistently losing weight. If you reach a plateau, you’ll know it and be able to make changes to start the weight loss again.
4. Pay Attention to Your Clothes
Did you know your clothes can weigh as much as 8 pounds? It is therefore a good idea to wear as little clothing as possible when weighing yourself. The best thing is to weigh yourself in the buff to get an accurate reading.
5. Take Some Time off
Having a period off from weighing yourself is perfectly fine and even good for your health. Bear in mind that you should weigh yourself just to know your weight trends, and you can do it well even if you use the scale only once a month is you are not actively trying to lose weight. After all, who cares about a stupid number when you feel good, look good, and are in good health too?
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6. Know You Are More than a Number
Don't let the number on the scale define you. That scale is not the only barometer of health. All you get from it is one piece of info, rather than a whole picture. Sure, know your weight but use it in relation to other aspects of your life to get an idea about your overall health.
7. Listen to Your Clothes
Did you almost faint when the last time you tried to squeeze into your favorite pair of jeans? Try it again instead of stepping on to a scale. If they fit better, you are on the right track.
8. Expect Fluctuations
Don’t worry if you notice any fluctuations in weight. It is not possible to lose pounds every day. Remember, your weight may fluctuate because of many factors, including sodium intake, water intake, an extra glass of wine, and so on. Just stick to your plan and continue to work hard to get good results.
9. Confidence is More Important
Stop thinking happiness depends on how skinny you are. You need to have the confidence to feel good and do well with whatever body type you are. Learn to be confident and know it is much more important than a number.
Weighing yourself should not be a burden nor a compulsion. Your scale is a tool not an obsession.
How often do you weight yourself? Do you do it more often when you’re trying to lose weight?
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