From LOSING IT! With Jillian Michaels
Thursday, November 05, 2009
Someone to Watch Over Me
To chase down big goals like losing 50 pounds or more, you've got to make some major lifestyle changes. Some shifts are easier than others. For instance, trading your chips for air-popped popcorn might be a little easier than getting up at the crack of dawn to exercise every day. For that kind of change, you might need a little extra support.
To help keep your feet firmly on the path to successful weight loss and fitness, find someone to look up to — someone whom you trust to educate you about health and fitness, give you advice and answers when you're feeling lost, and stimulate your sense of possibility and potential.
My role model was a fellow student at the karate studio I attended. Four years older than I was, he was smart, funny, charismatic, and one hell of a fighter. He was testing for his black belt while I was wearing the blue. I took to him immediately, and he became my mentor — the big brother I'd always wanted but never had. I admired and looked up to him, aspiring to follow his example.
The easiest way to get instant support is to hire a personal trainer, but you don't have to spend a lot of money to get the support you need. Look for a sponsor in a local support group or a trusted friend who has been there, done that — basically, anyone you respect who has the knowledge you need and the ability to challenge you and keep you moving toward your goal.