With so many people attempting to lose weight, it's amazing how little weight is actually lose and kept off. Think about your reason for wanting to lose weight and decide if it's enough to support a long range commitment. Too much change at once can push you into the high-stress zone. If you expect to lose more than one or two pounds a week, you're setting yourself up for failure. And expecting a diet to be a temporary measure rather than a life-long change in eating and exercise habits is also a surefire way to fail.
Experts say that exercise is an important component of any weight-loss program.
A supportive and understanding network of family and friends can help you enormously. Talk over your plans with your loved ones. For instance, your spouse may worry that as you lose weight you will become too attractive to others. Losing weigh permanently requires a major life change, not just another diet. Your answers to the above questions can help you decide if now is the time to start.