The Stages of Weight Management

Growth of any kind is tough: It's a daily effort made up of successes, setbacks, lost opportunities, progress and change — not a thing that happens overnight.

It's easy to feel frustrated, though, especially when you really want to reach the goals you're going for. But when you're feeling down, try to put your efforts into perspective.

A lot of people report that they go through the stages of weight management outlined below, and many say that they do so in this order. Weight loss won't necessarily happen this way for you, but if it does, you'll always know where you stand and what's coming next. Do any of these stages sound familiar?

STAGE #1: Honeymoon. When you're in the Honeymoon stage, you feel eager to do whatever it takes to lose weight. You can't wait to get to your goal, and you feel completely committed to your efforts.

You probably always stay within your PointsPlus™ Target and, control your portion sizes. And it's likely that you track everything you eat in your PointsPlus Tracker, plan your meals and exercise. Keep it up!

STAGE #2: The Thrill Is Gone. This is the most frustrating stage. You may be saying: Why do I have to be so careful? It doesn't seem like it's working. Why can other people eat what they want and still stay thin? Why can't it happen faster?

If you're at this stage, stick with it. Do what it takes to get the support you need, and see if you can reconnect with the reasons you decided to lose weight in the first place.

STAGE #3: Renewed Resolve. This is the time when you have a clearer set of expectations, with the added benefit of understanding how the process works.

When you're at this stage, you know that weight-loss doesn't come easily, and you're prepared to work hard. You're ready to be more consistent about exercising, tracking your PointsPlus values, controlling your portion sizes and everything else that goes along with building healthy new habits.

STAGE #4: Lifestyle Change. At this stage, you keep up your new habits even when you've had a bad day or week. You cope with stress and emotions in a healthy way. And you're always on the lookout for healthy things to eat, and for ways to get in extra exercise. This is a great place to be!