top of page

Why Lasting Weight Loss Takes Time (And How to Start Seeing Results Sooner)

White background with motivational text in black: "Quitting doesn’t get you there any faster—it only holds you back." URL at bottom: nourishedwithemily.com/blog.

When we first started working together, one of my clients asked me a question I hear often:


“Can you guarantee I’ll lose weight?”


I understood where she was coming from. She had tried so many diets before and was tired of feeling like nothing worked. She wanted certainty.


Here’s the truth I told her: I can’t guarantee weight loss results—because it’s not all in my hands.


And honestly, no one can promise that. Not a diet, not a program, not a coach. Why? Because lasting weight loss depends on two things: the plan we build together and your willingness to show up and take action.


It’s a 50/50 relationship—I bring the strategy, support, and accountability, and you bring the commitment to implement it. When both sides show up, amazing things happen.


Why Small Changes Are the Key to Lasting Weight Loss

When this client asked what it would take to get started, I didn’t hand her a long list of rules or a restrictive meal plan. Instead, I said:


“Let’s start small. Drink more water. Go to bed at a normal time. Eat breakfast.”


That’s it. Three simple habits.


She was skeptical—after all, the diet industry tells us that weight loss requires cutting out everything we love and working out twice a day. But here’s what happened:


Within the first week, she noticed:

✅ Better energy

✅ Improved sleep

✅ Less bloating

✅ More confidence in her choices


And that’s exactly what happens for most of our clients. When you start with small, doable habits, you start feeling better right away. That energy boost? It makes it easier to stay consistent—and that’s what drives results.


How Long Does It Really Take to See Results?


Here’s the truth no one wants to hear: lasting weight loss takes time.


You might feel better in the first week, but when it comes to the scale, the goal is about 0.5–1 pound per week. That’s realistic, sustainable weight loss.


You may think that’s slow, but it’s exactly what we want. Fast results often lead to fast weight regain. Slow and steady progress? That’s how you keep the weight off for good.


And remember this: quitting doesn’t get you there any faster. If you stop after two weeks because the scale didn’t drop 10 pounds, you’re only holding yourself back from the results you want.


The Real Secret—Consistency, Patience, and Realistic Expectations


My client eventually told me, “I’m so glad I didn’t quit when it felt slow at first.” Today, she feels more energized, more confident, and is losing weight at a pace that fits her life.


That’s because the secret to success isn’t a magic diet or a supplement—it’s this:


✔ Consistency—showing up even on busy days

✔ Patience—trusting the process when progress feels slow

✔ Realistic expectations—knowing that 0.5–1 pound per week adds up to big results over time


When you focus on building habits instead of chasing quick fixes, your results last for years—not just weeks.


Ready for Lasting Results? Let’s Do This Together


If you’re tired of diets that make you miserable and want a plan that actually works for your lifestyle, our 1:1 coaching is for you.


You’ll get a personalized plan, accountability, and support every step of the way—so you can feel better now and create results that last.


Comments


Nourished With Emily.png
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Facebook

© 2025 by Nourished With Emily. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Website designed by Ryle Designs

bottom of page