Think thin: 3 mind tricks to lose weight

When it comes to weight loss, having the right mindset is more important than eating well and exercising. Learn how to think thin, and lose weight as a result.

Start small
No matter what your goal, you’ll accomplish it faster if you make it smaller and more realistic. Pare down until you can say, “yes, I can absolutely do that.”

For example, instead of vowing to work out every day, decide to take one lap around the block after dinner. Once you’ve done it, reward yourself with a small treat (such as 10 minutes of uninterrupted reading). Keep it up for four days in a row and give yourself another indulgence, such as a new body wash.

Source: Martha Beck, PhD, author of "The Four-Day Win."

Squelch your inner voice
You know, the one that says, “I can have a piece of cake because I’m stressed/I’m tired/I deserve it.” It’s tempting to give in to these thoughts, but doing so won’t put you any closer to your goal.

Turn them off by doing an activity that shifts your focus off food, such as writing an e-mail, doing a crossword puzzle or starting a scrapbook.

Source: Judith S. Beck, PhD, author of "The Complete Beck Diet For Life."

Visualize the results
Imagine you’re watching a movie of a thinner, more confident and content you. Watch the trimmed-down you go through your daily routine, accomplishing each task with ease. This new person eats the right amount, exercises and uses healthy strategies to work through her emotions. Imagine your life from this new perspective.

Source: Paul McKenna, PhD, author of "I Can Make You Thin."

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