Letting Go: Overcoming Mental Barriers in Your Weight Loss Journey

You know exactly what to do to lose weight—so why can’t you do it? If you’ve ever felt stuck in your weight loss journey despite having all the right information, you’re not alone. The problem isn’t knowledge, it’s something deeper.

This morning, as I was clearing my inbox, I came across a newsletter from James Clear. In it, he posed a simple but powerful question: “What do I need to let go of this year to create space for what I really want?' It caught my attention because it applies so perfectly to weight loss.

Every year, millions of people, people like you, set out to lose weight, armed with the latest nutrition advice. Like many of them, you probably already know what to do—eat more protein, cut back on sugar, move your body, get enough sleep. But if you’re like most people, knowing isn’t the problem. The challenge is doing it… and doing it consistently. Take my client Sarah, for instance. She’s tried every diet under the sun—low-carb, keto, fasting—you name it. She knows exactly what to eat, how much to eat, and why managing her stress matters. But when life gets hectic, she finds herself back in old habits—grabbing a muffin instead of making breakfast, skipping workouts because she’s exhausted, then feeling guilty and defeated. 'Why can’t I just stay on track?' she asked me during our first visit, her voice filled with frustration.

Sound familiar?

So, this brings me back to James’s question, “What do I need to let go of this year to create space for what I really want?” Maybe it’s not carbs you need to give up—but the belief that you’re 'bad' at losing weight. Maybe it’s not late-night snacking, but the all-or-nothing mindset that turns one 'bad' meal into a downward spiral. Maybe it’s not sugar, but the identity of being someone who always struggles with her weight. Or maybe… you need to let go of the fear that if you try again, you’ll fail—so you never fully commit.

So, I’ll ask you again—what do you need to let go of to finally reach your goals? Take five minutes, grab a pen, and write down the thoughts, fears, or identities that are holding you back. Then, challenge yourself: What would happen if you let them go? You might be surprised at what comes up.