Any attempt to change an ingrained habit is no doubt going to be difficult. After all, some habits–like eating–we’ve had since birth! And with each passing birthday, these behaviors can truly become second nature. Just like the saying goes: Old habits die hard.

So taking into consideration that we are not only creatures of habit, but also live in a world that we can’t always control, it is only natural that we’ll be faced with obstacles when attempting to make serious changes. As I’ve said before, if weight loss was easy, the diet industry wouldn’t be the multi-billion dollar industry that it is!

With all that in mind, let’s look at that third question on our list:

When you’ve tried to lose weight in the past, what obstacles seemed to pop up, time and time again? 

Weight loss success hinges upon steady determination and thorough planning—planning which MUST include strategies to overcome potential roadblocks or temptations that may arise.  Think back.  What snags caused you to stumble during previous endeavors?  Instead of ignoring these problem areas, determine ways to overcome them.  Take an honest look at your habits and consider ways to re-wire the eating patterns you’ve developed over the years. Removing obstacles may also involve readjusting your surroundings to be more conducive to your goals.  While self-control and willpower are well and good, why not create an environment that will nurture success and lessen your chances for failure?

So take this chance to make an honest list of the obstacles you’ve faced before. This is the first step in overcoming them.

In the comments, share your thoughts! What obstacles have YOU dealt with before? And how did you handle them?