Setting Goals for Weight Loss

Before your weight loss surgery, Dr. Taylor will help you to create a realistic goal for your weight loss journey. However, following your surgery, it is important that you maintain the lifestyle changes and dietary goals that have been set forth to help you achieve your overall weight loss goal. The best way of doing this, is by setting smart, realistic goals that will aid you during your journey and help you to stay on track.

Some common goals following weight loss surgery include:

• Decreasing current medications
• Incorporating exercise into your daily routine
• Improve endurance, strength or flexibility
• Improve sleep habits
• Quitting smoking or other negative habits

The amount of weight you lose will be your overarching goal following your surgery. But, in order to reach that, it is important that you promote lifestyle changes that will encourage your overall health as well as your weight loss. These goals should all be geared towards your overall health and wellness.

How to Effectively Set Goals for Weight Loss

• Be specific. If you are detailed in what you want to achieve, it will make it easier to achieve. Don’t be vague or broad by saying that you want to “be healthier” or “get moving”. Write down a specific list of what you need to do to improve your health and optimize your weight loss. Dr. Taylor and your weight loss team will help you to determine these things.
• Measure your progress. Your weight loss team will be there to help measure your weight loss progress. For your other goals, such as exercising or quitting smoking, you can keep a log of your progress. This will help you to see your improvement and keep you working towards your goals.
• Be realistic. You want to set goals that are attainable and realistic. If you set goals that are too advanced, broad or unattainable you will be less likely to stay on track and could experience pitfalls, setbacks or weight regain.
• Consider timing. Be sure to account for specific stressors or current situations that could cause you to lose focus. If you are able to recognize these beforehand, you can work to improve and eliminate them successfully.
• Expect setbacks. If you experience a setback or feel as though your goals are unachievable, you may feel like giving up. Prepare yourself for possible setbacks and you will be better able to handle them, should they occur.

With the help of your weight loss team, you can set realistic and attainable goals that will help you optimize and achieve weight loss. Lifestyle and weight goals can keep your motivated and focused following your bariatric surgery. If you are having trouble making the necessary changes after bariatric surgery, be sure to talk to your weight loss doctor.