A number of workout programs including Body for Life and the Biggest Loser require that you take a picture of yourself as you are now. You wear a bathing suit so that you can’t hide any of your flaws and that you have a really good idea of how you look. Your love handles, your bulges and even the little (and big) bits that jiggle when you laugh.
These pictures are raw, honest and shed a harsh light of reality on how we look. These photographs are often used as the Before shot in order to measure the progress of the person who is participating in the weight loss or fitness plans. But we can use these pictures for more than just a scrapbook mention or a demonstration. They can be intensely motivational as well.
Tape that picture to your refrigerator if you are looking at curbing appetite or meal portions; tape it to your workout equipment to remind you that you need to do your workouts. You can also put it up in your office space just to remind yourself against unhealthy snacks – scarily enough, put one in your wallet so whenever you consider buying fast food or other unhealthy foods it’s right there to remind you.
Is it Harsh?
Yes, it is harsh. For some people, it’s too harsh. You can reverse the psychology and instead of using a picture of how you are now, use a picture of when you were more toned and fit. This can inspire you to work harder. It can also be motivational for you to not skip your workouts as well as to help you avoid binging when you are down or feeling stressed.
Pictures can say a thousand words – it’s up to you to choose the message. For me, I like keeping a picture of my daughter near my workout space. I like having the picture there because it reminds me of why I need to workout every day – so that I can be in a good mental and physical space for her.
What pictures might motivate you?
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