Learn some tips for winning the weight-loss game! Maybe you made a New Year's resolution that you're having trouble keeping, or recent out-of-control eating forced you to focus on finding a new way to live.

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Whatever your reasons, if you're just beginning the weight loss game, you're not alone.

Starting a new diet, especially a plan you've never tried before, can be overwhelming. The number one thing to watch out for is losing sight of the reason you're trying to lose weight, says Jackie Raha, Manager of Group Service Development with WeightWatchers leader training. Being clear about your goals is your greatest weapon against getting derailed.

Sure, to say 'I want to lose 2st' is a plan. But does that get you going? Can you picture that success? Make your goal work for you rather than the other way around. Try: 'I want to lose 2st in time to feel comfortable wearing a swimming costume this summer'.

How could you give up on a great goal like that?

Practice makes perfect

It can take a while to get the hang of a particular food plan. As Laura, a Weight Watchers meetings member says: "It's okay if you make mistakes. You just pick up and keep going. Persistence is probably the most important mental attitude."

Some other tips for beginners:

Create a menu for your first week, suggests Raha. "It gives a certain structure that can sometimes help you set a very tangible goal. It's a fine first step toward getting yourself focused on control."

Make sure you have healthy, low fat, Filling Foods on hand. And try experimenting with foods you've never tried before, such as exotic fruits and grains.

Keep track. Tracking your food intake is crucial. "The greatest predictor of ongoing success is monitoring yourself and your progress," says Raha. Try writing down what you eat and drink every day. The amounts may surprise you!

Know you will be satisfied. Don't be too restrictive with your diet or you'll feel deprived, and be more likely to quit. With a reasonable diet, you can lose weight and still feel satisfied.

Watch out! Weight Watchers leader Ann Lombardo suggests keeping an eye out for the following beginner blockades:

- Make sure you're not getting into a 'diet' mindset. You should be nurturing yourself, not limiting yourself.

- Be prepared for old 'eating buddies'. Either change the activity you usually do with them, or come up with alternative foods you can enjoy that will allow you to stick to your diet.

- Plan in advance for eating events, such as holidays. And remember, says Lombardo: "Every time you successfully stick to your diet during an event or something that could have torn you away, you're one step closer to your dream."

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