Mentally and physically, money can make you lose it. Pounds or ounces of sanity are at stake when cash comes into play. According to a recent study, dieters who tried to lose weight with no incentive lost less weight than those who were faced with the chance of losing or earning money. Akin to most diets, however, after seven months, both groups of dieters regained the weight. Moral of the money-minded story? Diets. Don't. Work.
Other studies have showed that small rewards help people with goals stay on track. "Non-food" rewards are the most beneficial for those who are trying to lose weight, gifts such a spa days, a day off from exercise, or a trip to the mall. Therefore, something positive to be taken away from this study is that minor gifts to yourself after achieving part of your objective can be helpful in your pursuit, whether it be to avoid the bakery every morning or clean out your closet, day by day. We were told as children that we wouldn't get any dessert until we finished what was on our plate; it makes perfect sense that these same stipulations translate to our adult lives.
Constant reminders (via text messages) that were sent to the dieters who were earning/losing money served as motivators to stick with the plan. If you require the same luxury for your goal, set automatic tasks on your cell phone or put up post-its where you will see them daily. Better yet, drop your change into a jar marked with your goal in writing, or make a deposit in your account each time you take a step toward the finish line. Such actions will flag your memory and keep you thinking about that objective.
The ultimate reward, though, is achieving the goal. Stay optimistic, anticipate possible setbacks, and envision the end result for sure success!
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