Final Step #8 - Toyota's Eight Steps to Problem-Solving Applied to Weight Loss

Standardizing the Process

After losing 60 lbs. 

This week is filled with great emotion as this series comes to a close. Last year, I set a goal of writing about my weight loss journey. To be honest one of my bad habits when I feel overwhelmed or vulnerable, is to quit. In fact, knowing that I have this tendency kept me from ever committing to do anything that would put me in either of these situations.

I looked at the outline I originally developed and the new blank page each week with dread, but over the last eight weeks it has gotten easier. Once the first sentence was written, the rest came tumbling out and excitement took over. Writing the articles taught me that facing fears helps to break undesirable habits. This also happened in setting my weight loss goal. The fear of ridicule, failure and acceptance no longer controlled my actions, or worse, lack of action.

Inaction can be crippling. Living in the world of excuses may feel safe in the moment because it’s easy to blame others for the life we are living. Taking control of your thoughts and actions will give you courage to create your future.  Reaching goals will become reflex like simply breathing.

This final step of “standardizing the process” is one of the most important. When I reached my “goal weight” in the past, the bad behaviors crept back in and snuggled up with me on the coach while watching TV and munching on the worst foods. Believe me if you go back to those habits, your weight will quickly find its way back and bring all their friends.  

There will be times during the year when it will be harder to follow your counter measures. Anticipate those times and develop strategies before they occur. Holidays and emotional anniversaries can derail even the most determined. Journaling can help identify the rhythm of life and provide insight.

At some point, your body will cry, “uncle” and refuse to allow one more ounce to be lost. The best practice is to embrace the plateaus and allow your body to catch up. Strive to keep your weight the same during this time. Re-examine your counter measures and recommit.

“The only proper way to eliminate bad habits is to replace them with good ones,” said Jerome Hines. By following the Eight Steps to Problem Solving, you can overcome any challenge and replace bad habits with new ones that move you closer to your goals.

Kerri Smith is a marketing professional by trade but dedicates her life to learning and challenging the status quo. Smith is a wife, mother, grandmother, businesswoman, professional speaker, teacher, student, author, survivor and lover of life. Learn more at www.cuexceed.com.