">
" />
">

The Secrets of Success: Start Small to Achieve Big Results

By , SparkPeople Blogger
Every journey begins with a single step--even your journey to a healthier you. We know that losing weight and improving your health isn't something that happens overnight but rather gradually, as small steps add up to something bigger. That tip is just one bit of advice we learned from our top members, the ones who lost weight and stuck with it. Until now, their sage advice has not been shared on the dailySpark and was found only in our best-selling book, The Spark. These strategies are so effective that we wanted to shout them from the rooftops, so we decided to share our 15 favorite Secrets of Success on the dailySpark from March 1-15.

Secret #7: Start small to achieve big results.

Almost 80 percent of successful members started with small steps, and once they built a firm foundation, they went from there. Dieters were more likely to start with big goals and go all out trying to lose weight fast.

Once upon a time, I weighed 40 pounds more than I do now. I ate fast food. I didn't exercise. And I didn't respect my body. Today I'm a vegetarian yoga teacher who's training for my first half-marathon. How did I become the person I am today? Slowly, deliberately, and respectfully. One less glass of wine, eating at home instead of ordering takeout, and five more minutes at a time on the elliptical. I'm happier and healthier--and I never feel deprived.

Pound by pound, day by day, I reached my goal weight--and so will you!

VIDEO: "We Lost 140 Pounds Together as Husband and Wife"

Stay Motivated with SparkStreaks

3 Non-Diet, Non-Exercise Ways to Prevent Obesity in Kids

Are the Secrets of Success helping you? If so, then Spread the Spark by clicking the green "Share" button below.


Miss a secret? Find all the rest of the series of 15 here (a new one is posted every day). For all 27 secrets and to learn how to fit them into your life, read this.


What small step toward a better you did you take today?