Losing 10lbs may sound simple—eat less, move more, and the weight will come off, right? For some, that formula works. But for most of us, life is far more complicated. Between work, family, and countless daily obligations, finding the time and energy to prioritize weight loss can feel overwhelming, even paralyzing.
The truth is, losing 10lbs—or any weight—requires more than a quick fix or fad diet. It’s about developing a skill: the skill of eating healthier, moving more, and incorporating those habits into your routine for life. And like any skill, it takes practice, patience, and commitment.
In this post, we’ll break down what it takes to lose 10lbs and, more importantly, how to build habits that set you up for long-term success.
Weight Loss: The Skill You Need to Develop
When we think about skills, we often think about learning to play an instrument, speak a new language, or master a technical task. But what about the skill of health? Eating nutritious meals, staying active, and maintaining consistency are all skills—ones that require time and practice to master.
Here’s the problem: Too many of us treat health as something we’ll “get to later.” We push it off for a day, then a week, and before we know it, years have passed. Neglecting this skill doesn’t just stall progress; it creates a ripple effect. Poor eating habits lead to decreased energy. Skipping workouts becomes the norm. And eventually, we find ourselves further from our goals than ever before.
The Misunderstanding About Weight Loss
Many people approach weight loss expecting quick results. But the journey isn’t linear. Real, sustainable weight loss comes down to small, consistent actions over time—not dramatic overhauls.
Think about it this way: Losing 10lbs requires a calorie deficit of 35,000 calories. That might sound daunting, but when broken down into manageable steps, it’s achievable:
- Reduce your daily intake by 300-500 calories.
- Add 30-40 minutes of movement daily.
- Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods.
These steps may not sound glamorous, but they work. And the best part? They’re sustainable when turned into habits.
How to Develop the Skill of Health
- Start Small
Change doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Begin by tackling one habit at a time. Maybe it’s drinking more water, adding vegetables to every meal, or committing to a 15-minute walk daily. Start where you are, and build from there. - Create Routines, Not Restrictions
Rigid diets and punishing exercise routines rarely work long-term. Instead, focus on creating routines that fit your lifestyle. Meal prep on Sundays. Schedule workouts like appointments. Prioritize sleep to support recovery and energy. - Focus on Progress, Not Perfection
You don’t need to be perfect to see results. Consistency beats intensity every time. Missed a workout? Start again tomorrow. Ate something off plan? Refocus on your next meal. Growth happens when we get back on track—not when we dwell on missteps. - Measure What Matters
Weight loss isn’t just about the scale. Pay attention to other markers of progress:
- Are you stronger or more energetic?
- Do your clothes fit differently?
- Are you sleeping better?
These wins show you’re moving in the right direction, even if the scale takes time to catch up.
What Happens If You Don’t Start Now?
It’s easy to delay action, telling yourself you’ll start next week or next month. But what happens when “next week” turns into years? The longer we wait, the harder it becomes to break old habits. Health doesn’t pause while we focus on everything else—it declines. Energy wanes, strength diminishes, and what felt like a small setback becomes a mountain to climb.
By starting today, you’re not just working toward a goal. You’re investing in your future self.
How Long Will It Really Take?
The time it takes to lose 10lbs varies for everyone. Factors like age, metabolism, activity level, and consistency all play a role. On average, losing 1-2 pounds per week is both safe and realistic, meaning you could reach your goal in 5-10 weeks. But remember, the timeline matters less than building habits that last a lifetime.
Take the First Step Today
Losing 10lbs isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. By developing the skill of health, you can create routines that not only help you shed weight but improve your overall quality of life.
If you’re ready to get started, we’re here to help. Book a FREE No Sweat Intro with us today, and let’s create a plan tailored to your goals.
Don’t wait for the perfect time. Start now. Your future self will thank you.
