Weight loss rewards that don't involve food

A massage is an excellent reward.Credit: Wikimedia Commons, Thomas Wanhoff

For many, a reward system is a great way to stay motivated during weight loss. Unfortunately, many people choose to reward themselves with food. This creates a bad relationship with fat and calories. Your favorite foods should be enjoyed moderately, not scarfed down because you lost two pounds. Instead, you need to create a reward system that isn't based on food. There are plenty of ideas to work with. Whether you enjoy a good book, movie or a bit of pampering, there are ways to reward your hard work without turning to food.

Books, Movies and Other Entertainment

Everyone loves to be entertained and choosing a form of entertainment can be a great reward. You might purchase yourself a new book or movie or even go to the movies to see the latest blockbuster. You might even choose to set aside a certain amount of money with each pound lost to buy something truly special, like tickets to a concert. Regardless of the form of entertainment you choose, this is a much healthier reward. Best of all, you can spend as much or as little as you want on this type of reward.

Pampering

There isn't a woman alive that would turn down pampering. While pampering is a great reward, you don't have to spend a fortune. For example, if you lose a pound, buy yourself a new scent of body wash or a new color of nail polish. You don't have to go all out. It might even be something as simple as taking time to enjoy a hot bubble bath while listening to your favorite CD. It doesn't matter what you choose as long as you take time to enjoy your hard work.

Special Rewards

While one pound lost might not seem like something that requires a big reward, there are times when you reach certain goals that you need something big. For example, I plan to reward myself with a trip to the spa for a hot stone massage and facial, plus a trip to the salon, once I've lost all my extra weight. You might decide to go shopping for a new wardrobe, take a cruise or even take a mini vacation with some friends. You should dream big when you reach your final goal and reward yourself for a job well done. After all, it's not often that people stick with your weight loss plans until the very end and you deserve it.

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