The diary is an essential help in reaching your weight loss goal. Writing down your goals and progress will motivate your in a way nothing else can, thus helping you reach your target weight much more easily. The diary is the success-secret of weight loss support groups, and it will help you too!

Here are some tips:

1. Before you begin your weight loss diary, ask yourself these questions:

? How much weight do you want to lose?

? How much time do you hope to take to reach your goal?

? What methods will you use to accomplish your goal?

? Who or what can motivate you to help you reach your goal?

? Is your goal realistic?

? When do you want to start?

I suggest that you print out this page, grab a nice glass of water, and think about these questions when you have some time to yourself.

2. Post your answers to these questions in your PhenForum.com weight loss diary. Doing so will spark your goals to life and you'll feel more certain that you can achieve them.

3. Start your diary. It's really easy! Just click on the "New Topic" button, put the name of your diary in the subject field (ex. Deb's weight loss diary), and write down your goals in the message area. TIP: Don't forget to write down your starting weight, and remember to be honest. It will really help you toward your goals.

4. Keep posting! You've already accomplished a gigantic step towards your goals by starting your own weight loss diary. But for the best motivation, you must update it regularly ? at least 3-5 times a week. The best success comes from using your diary every day, especially when you first start out. Write about everything, whether you view it as success or failure. Share your feelings with others and ask them for advice. Stick with these tips, and you'll find out how much support and motivation you can get from a simple diary.

I wish you success in reaching your weight loss goals, and I can't wait to meet you at the weight loss forum!