If you're overweight, you want to lose weight. That's a given. But how much weight do you want to lose? If you set an unrealistic goal weight, you're setting yourself up for failure.

Unfortunately, the media and the weight loss industry mess with our minds. Most of us have no idea what our goal weight might realistically be.

Why not set mini targets? For example, if you have 50 pounds to lose to meet what you think might be your goal, aim for a ten pound weight loss, and see how you feel.

Setting a mini target helps because it's achievable. If you change one habit - eating an apple and piece of cheese for a snack, rather than a couple of donuts - you can achieve this goal very quickly.

As you lose weight, you'll gain energy and confidence. That might spur you to lose more weight, and you will then see what your realistic goal really is.

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