"It isn't willpower 

you need for weight loss -

it's motivation." 

Weight Loss Surgeon—Dr. Terri Simpson

What will inspire you to become the "new you"?

Willpower will only take us just so far, all by itself. What we need is a big helping of the proper motivation. The proper motivation will help us maneuver any obstacles that may stand in the way of reaching our ultimate goal. 

Before surgery, I had to pause and consider what it was that I really wanted. Considering things that would offer lasting rewards for a lifetime. 

I had to ask myself diagnostic questions, such as:

• What does my life look like right now?
• What do I want my life to look like?

With my long-term goals defined, I was motivated to go for my goal. Although short-term motivators will help create milestones along the way—long-term motivations are crucial for long-term success.

Before weight loss surgery, I wanted a better quality of life, physically, emotionally, and relationally. I wanted better health which for me meant getting off prescription medication, (which only controlled my diabetes and high blood pressure to a limited degree.) I also wanted emotional freedom and a new positive self-image. These on-going long-term goals still inspire me today, nine years later.

My short-term desires (such as being able to sit in a plastic lawn chair without fear of breaking it, cross my legs, pick up things off the floor, tie my own shoes, fly without a seat beat extension, sit in a restaurant booth, wear a sweater dress or a khaki pencil skirt) were some of the many milestones that I realized as a result of reaching my long-term goals.

I encourage you to make a list of your motivating factors. Writing brings clarity. Your long-term goals should be strong enough to keep you going long-term—not just for the short-term. They will also serve as a consistent catalyst as you walk out of obesity—they will get you started on the road to success and keep you moving onward into your future—before and after weight loss surgery.