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The key to any successful weight-loss endeavor is to set some sensible weight loss goals. Setting goals will let you track your progress and gives you a definite target to aim for. You don’t want to aim too high and set yourself up for failure or even worse, risk your health by losing too much too fast. At the same time, you want to set a goal that is a little bit of a challenge. Here are some guidelines on how to come up with a sensible weight-loss goal.

Don’t lose more than 1 to 2 pounds a week

You are aiming for slow and steady weight-loss. To set your goal, decide when you want to lose the weight by, and then expect to lose 1 or 2 pounds a week. So, if you figure a time period of 6 months, you want your goal to be around 26 – 52 pounds.

Even small goals will make a difference

Don’t feel like you have to lose a lot of weight to make difference in your health. You will see benefits by losing as little as 10% of your body weight. If you weigh 150 pounds, losing 15 pounds may show an improvement in your overall health and the way you feel.

Use the Body Mass Index

Feeling overweight, or thinking that you should lose some weight can be very subjective. To get a better feel for where you are at, you may want to calculate your Body Mass. Visit this site to find out what your BMI is* and what it means. Adjust your weight-loss goal so you will eventually be in the "normal" category.

*(Note: Link will open in a new window).

Speak to your physician

Schedule an appointment with your general practitioner. He or she knows your medical history and will be able to advise you on how much you should lose. It is always a good idea to speak to your physician before you start any diet or exercise program.

Set Mini Goals

Once you set your ultimate sensible weight loss goal and have a time-plan for reaching it, break it up into several mini goals to reach along the way. Looking at a big goal can seem a little intimidating. Breaking it up into smaller goals allows you to focus on your first mini goal and gives you a feeling of accomplishment when you reach that goal. Then just move on to the next mini goal until you reach your big goal.

Now that you have your weight-loss goal and the mini goals in place, start by tackling your first mini goal. I know you can succeed by approaching weight-loss one step at a time. Your next challenge is just to get started.

Your Secret Weapon for a Healthy Eating Lifestyle

Susanne Myers is the co-creator of Healthy Menu Mailer. Busy Moms love the easy-to-prepare healthy dinner recipes, grocery lists and encouragement to stay healthy every day of the week.

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