Is Your Mindset Outdated? Why a Mental Shift Might Be the Key to Overcoming Weight Loss Barriers

In today's fast-paced world, we rarely hesitate to update our devices, but when was the last time you updated your mindset—especially when it comes to weight loss? The moment we see that a software update is available, we quickly upgrade without a second thought. It’s almost automatic because we know our devices need the latest software to function at their best. These updates often fix bugs, enhance usability, or introduce new features—essential improvements based on user feedback and developer insights.

But many of us have never even considered updating our mindsets. This is particularly true for those who come to me wanting to lose weight. Often, the real challenge isn’t the weight itself; it’s the way they think about it. A shift in mindset can be the key to unlocking weight loss.

So, is it time for a mindset shift? Let’s explore some steps to make that change happen.

Step 1: Identify the Mental Barriers

If you've been struggling to lose weight without success, there's likely something holding you back that you either don't recognize or aren't ready to confront. Gaining clarity on what's truly standing in your way is like updating your mindset—it’s the essential first step.

Often, people unknowingly sabotage their progress because they associate some drawback with achieving their goal. For more insight on this topic, you might want to check out my previous blog, "How Women (Unintentionally) Self-Sabotage Weight Loss," (HERE) which dives into the common ways women might unknowingly hinder their own progress.

Think about it: if you knew that losing 25 pounds would boost your mood, improve your sex life, extend your life, and save you thousands in medical bills, you’d be all in, right?  Yet, despite knowing these benefits, the weight still isn’t coming off. Why? Because there’s an unconscious block at play. You might not be taking the necessary steps because, deep down, you perceive a downside to reaching your goal. 

Write down your goal. Then, list ten negative consequences you believe might happen if you achieve it.

For example, if your goal is to lose 25 pounds, yet you never seem to find the time to exercise, your negative associations might be:

• I’ll have to buy new clothes, which I can’t afford.
• My sister will get jealous and cause conflict.
• My best friend might say I’m "too good" for her.
• I’ll have to go to the gym, which isn’t very comfortable.
• I won’t be able to enjoy my nightly 15 Thin Mints.

Do you see the pattern? Write down any negative thoughts about losing the weight you say you want to lose and see what surprises you when you get honest with yourself.

 Step 2: Focus on the Major Roadblocks

Now that you have your list of 10 potential drawbacks to achieving your goal, it’s time to identify the most significant ones. Review your list and circle the three drawbacks that resonate most with you. Don’t be surprised if this stirs up some emotions—that’s a good sign that you’re getting to the heart of the matter.

Take some time to really sit with those three key drawbacks. You might find relaxing in a bath with calming music helpful as you reflect on them. Let the reality of these concerns sink in.

Now, ask yourself this crucial question: Are these three drawbacks so daunting that you’d rather stay overweight for the rest of your life than face them?

 Step 3: Recognize That the Weight is Usually Not the Real Problem

As you connect more deeply with the three key drawbacks you’ve identified, you’ll see that the weight itself isn’t the real issue. The extra weight is merely a symptom of something deeper.

One of my clients once said, “Even if I lose weight, it won’t fix my relationship.” That’s absolutely true! If you’re struggling in a relationship—whether it’s with a partner, family member, or friend—losing weight won’t solve those problems. It might even make things more complicated.

Once you realize that the weight isn’t the root problem, you can start addressing the real issues causing you to sabotage your progress. It could be challenges in your marriage, difficulties with your children, stress at work, or something else entirely. It’s time to take a closer look at these underlying issues.

The purpose of this exercise is to shine a light on the areas where you may be holding yourself back. When you can see the potential negatives of achieving your goal, you also uncover opportunities to make different choices. And when you make different choices, you can take actions that truly transform your life.

 Step 4: Take Action and Break Through for Weight Loss Success

Now that you’ve identified the blocks, honed in on the major roadblocks, and recognized that the weight is not the real problem, it’s time to take action. Understanding what’s been holding you back is just the beginning. The next crucial step is to work through these challenges so you can finally achieve your weight loss goals.

Breaking free from these mental barriers on your own can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. Working 1-on-1 with a coach can provide you with the guidance, support, and strategies you need to make lasting change. Together, we can tackle the underlying issues, shift your mindset, and set you on a path to success.

If you’re ready to overcome the mindset holding you back and start making real progress toward your goals, I invite you to work with me. Click HERE and let's talk about how mindset coaching can help you achieve lasting weight loss. Let’s take that next step together and transform your life.

I love working with people serious about changing their lives and creating the lifestyle they’ve been dreaming about!