The Biggest Losers: What does personality have to do with successful weight loss?

Did you ever start a diet or join a gym with a group of friends? If you're like most people, one member of your group (maybe you!) had a ton of success, dropped weight, and kept it off. Other group members might have initially lost a few pounds, but packed them on again. Or they may not have had any success at all, despite your new plan. According to a very focused study on registrants in the National Weight Control Registry, which is comprised of people who have lost at least 30 pounds and kept the weight off for a period of at least one year, there is a specific set of personality traits that makes a person more likely to lose weight and keep it off.

Using the Hermann Brain Dominance Inventory, people can be classified into four major categories (A, B, C, and D) concerning the way they take in new information and respond to situations. The A's are the statistically-obsessed, number-crunching mathematicians. B's are organized and methodical. C's are emotional and people-focused. D's are spontaneous thrill-seekers who bore easily. To learn more about which type you are, you can visit the links below. But here's what the study found: the most successful dieters (that is, those who not only lost weight, but were able to maintain that weight loss) were Type B's.

The good news for ALL personality types is that you can learn to work the traits that make B's successful to your advantage. Regardless of your type, here are some simple action steps to take when it comes to your diet:

1. Take a scientific approach--don't get bogged down by the numbers, but DO keep track of what you eat and how much you exercise.

2. Stay organized. Use a planner and be sure to make time for your workouts and healthy eating. Don't forget about SLEEP!

3. Organize your life. By having organized houses, finances, records, etc., it will be easier to control your diet and exercise.

4. Above all, be consistent. Track your progress and ensure you are following through with your plans.

References
http://www.cnn.com/2007/LIVING/personal/06/29/in.your.head/index.html
http://www.hopellc.com/bdsi.html

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