I’m often asked what my secret weapon was to lose 150 lbs. People assume I’ll say it’s exercise or a very restrictive diet, but actually, it’s neither. I believe that my top secret to success in losing weight and getting healthy was my mindset: perseverance, dedication, and a burning desire to not let yourself sabotage your progress.

Is nutrition important? Very. Is exercise important in weight loss? Not really, but it is beneficial. But without a mindset that allows you to stick to the diet, change your lifestyle, and resist temptation, none of the other stuff matters.

It’s like anything else in life worth attaining: A degree, certification, award, promotion, or just a job well done. It takes work, dedication, and perseverance. Losing weight and getting healthy is no different.