It's easy to get caught up in the numbers when you're weighing in every week. You worked so hard! You want that scale to say your hard work is… well, working.
But relying only on the scale for feedback can be iffy. If you didn't lose or you gained, you might be unhappy—and even feel that you’ve had a setback.
On the other hand…. If you put the scale in perspective—think of it as just one (not always accurate) tool, one element of feedback—and focus on your other positive actions, your weight-loss journey will feel a lot less narrowly defined. There are many stepping stones that form the path to success. Tune in to other signs of progress and you’ll find more reasons to celebrate—and that can help you succeed!
Maybe you've seen the #NSV hashtag on Connect on the mobile app. It stands for “non-scale victories,” the small, everyday triumphs that aren’t about pounds and ounces, but are about making healthy choices, doing things you love, standing up for yourself—really, anything that helps you keep moving in the right direction, even (especially) when the scale isn’t.
NSVs aren’t extras or consolation prizes. They’re what your hard work is really about—and the numbers on the scale are the added bonus. Sure, keeping track of the weight you’ve lost is an important part of following your plan. But recognizing your progress in other areas is more likely to keep you headed in the right direction.
Some non-scale victories that show how far you've come?
- Your clothes fit better.
- It's easier to walk up stairs and play with your kids.
- You have more energy.
- You can walk into the gym with confidence.
- You’re eating more vegetables and fresh fruit.
- Your blood pressure or cholesterol numbers are down.
It's important to recognize changes, even if you consider them small as they are happening. You’re moving forward with actions, attitudes, skills, and choices that will last you a lifetime at a healthy weight. Focus on your NSVs and the pounds will take care of themselves.
Corn Bonanza!
Now’s about the time sweet, juicy corn abounds at the market. Our Black Bean, Tomato and Corn Salad Tostadas—would be fabulous with kernels sliced right off the cob (but you can use frozen!). Or try some of our other summer-perfect ways to dress up corn like our hearty Summer Corn, Bacon, and Potato Chowder or Scallop, Corn and Tomato Salad.