[equestrienne]

Hi there, I just joined the site this weekend.

My name is Courtney and I have about 40 lbs to lose. I've tried to lose weight in the past and I was never motivated enough or able to stick with anything due to what was going on in my life. This summer I am ready to try and ready to make a big change. I want to be fit to ride my horse, and it would be nice to look slimmer for my teaching job interviews.

The following is my Plan for myself. I took this from someone months ago and customized it, and I am now ready to follow it.

Goal:
I am 170 pounds by July 15, 2004.
I am 160 pounds by August 8, 2004.
I am 150 pounds by September 1, 2004.
I am 140 pounds by December 1, 2004.

Action:
I exercise.
I drink water.
I eat fruits and vegetables.
I control my portions.
I take a multivitamin.

S.M.A.R.T Actions (Simple, Measurable, Action, Realistic, Time Bound):
I exercise at least 3 times a week for 30 minutes or more in June and July.
I exercise at least 3 times a week for 40 minutes or more in July and August.
I drink at least 6 glasses of water a day.
I eat 3 servings of fruits and vegetables.
I take a multivitamin at least 5 out of 7 days a week.
I wear a pedometer and keep track of my steps, aiming for 10,000 per day.

Visual S.M.A.R.T Goals:
I am smiling and proud as I complete each of my workouts this week.
I am smiling and proud as I finish each glass of water I drink.
I am smiling and proud as I finish my 3rd serving of fruits and vegetables for the day.

List 'why' you want to achieve this goal:
Increased fitness level for riding my horse
Increased self-esteem
Wear smaller sizes
Feel healthier and more beautiful
Surprise boyfriend


Identify exactly your specific strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities:

Strengths:
My desire to lose weight
Support of loved ones
Knowing that I have lost weight before - knowing that I CAN do it

Weaknesses:
Eating out of boredom
Social eating
Self-doubt

Opportunities:
Going to local gym
Using treadmill/ bike/ videos at home
Doing barn chores
Horseback riding
Exercise done on the job
Walking more every day

List everything that could possibly prevent you from achieving this goal:
Being LAZY
Giving in to impulsive eating
Buying lunches instead of bringing them from home
Making poor meal choices when eating out
Sugary treats
Poorly managing time

To help myself reach this goal, I will:
Evaluate my progress weekly on Sundays
Find a buddy (in person or online) to encourage and motivate me
Join or visit a local gym
Drink water before I snack or eat
Stop when I am full
Eat only when I am truly hungry
Treat myself to small non-food rewards as I go, i.e. mini-shopping spree, getting nails done, tanning, set aside time for scrap booking/ greeting card making/ writing my book, etc.

I am posting this here because at times I know I will need all the support I can get, from family and buddies in person and online. I would appreciate any helpful comments or suggestions, and I would love a few buddies to stay in touch with by e-mail or AOL IM. Thanks! Good luck to all of you...

[chelle567]

Hello! i am new to this website to. My sister loves horses to. Fortunetly for her though she has the skinny jeans. I have about 50 pounds to lose, gained all mine after pregnancies. Love your post though. That is such a great idea!
Positive thinking will help you go a long way. I read that you should not think of it as losing weight, because when you lose something you want it back. SO instead think of giving it away, to someone who could really use a little extra weight. I thought that was an interesting way to see it, and although it makes sense, i never thought of it like that til i read it!!

[JayEll]

Hey! I liked your plan. How has it been going for you? Did you meet your 7/15 goal, or did things need some adjustment?

Best of luck to you!