Mark Twain once said, "Habit is habit and not to be flung out of the window by any man, but coaxed downstairs a step at a time." While this quote may not seem to have anything to do with losing weight on its face, you may find wisdom in it. Maintaining proper motivation for weight loss can be one of the biggest hurdles must address when trying to lose weight. Fortunately there are some tricks you can use to stay motivated.

One motivational trick that many people report working best for them is looking down at the scale and seeing actual progress. If you are able to get off to a good start, losing those first 5 pounds can turn into a highly encouraging motivator. Once you see that your program is working and it is actually possible for you to lose weight, you will be encouraged to stick with it, and the weight loss will continue.

Another motivation for weight loss is to keep a picture diary of your progress. Starting with day one of your program take several pictures of yourself in various poses, e.g., front, back and side views. Each week, take new pictures of yourself in the same poses. Your progress will be very apparent and this can be an extremely powerful motivating technique.

It is also important to set reasonable expectations in order to maintain proper motivation. You can easily become discouraged and quit your weight loss program by setting unrealistic goals. For instance, it makes no sense to try and lose 30 pounds in 30 days, as this is not healthy or advisable. If, however, you set a more reasonable goal of losing say, 10 pounds in 30 days and you achieve that goal, you will feel as if you are on a direct path towards success.

A final and perhaps most powerful method of maintaining weight loss motivation is to lose weight with a group of family, friends or like-minded people. Attempting to lose weight with other people can add a few different benefits to your particular goals. You will feel encouraged by the support theyshow you in trying to reach your goal. Also, others in the group will hold you accountable and keep you honest.

To lose weight you need proper knowledge and proper motivation. While knowledge about losing weight can be easily obtained from a number of sources, lack of motivation is often what stops you from achieving your weight loss goals. However, with the powerful tips described above you will be able to stay motivated and complete your weight loss program.

It is important to note that motivation is only one secret to weight loss success. For additional weight loss secrets to help you achieve your goals click the link below to receive a free copy of "7 Secrets to Fat Loss."