
EPISODE 120: If You Need Motivation to Lose Weight, You're Doing It Wrong (Do This Instead)
Outsmart OvereatingShow Notes
Most people don't struggle with weight loss because they lack discipline. They struggle because they're chasing the wrong fuel: external validation.
In this episode, Steph and I break down why motivation built on compliments, scale drops, and "wow you look amazing" energy eventually collapses and what actually keeps you consistent when that attention disappears.
Because it will disappear. The scale stalls. People stop noticing. Life moves on. And suddenly you're left asking: "Do I even want this anymore if nobody's clapping?"
Here's what we get into and what you can start applying today:
Why external validation (compliments, scale loss, deadlines) works… until it doesn't
The real reason motivation fades (and it's not laziness)
How to build intrinsic motivation that actually lasts
Why "boring" habits (like eating without distraction) are where real change is built
The difference between outcome goals and identity-based process goals
How to create your own internal reward system so you're not dependent on the scale
A simple exercise to reconnect to your deeper "why" in under 10 minutes
If you're tired of starting over every Monday, this episode will help you stop relying on hype and start building something you can actually sustain.
You can also connect with Leslie & Steph on Instagram.
Be the first to know when we're opening the doors to our signature psychology-based weight loss program, Outsmart Overeating (and get exclusive access to early bird discounts and fast action bonuses), join the Interest List.
If you want to learn how to not-only lose weight, but also lose the struggle along side it, you can get started by taking the Weight Loss Psychology Quiz: Discover Your Diet Personality Type
More from Outsmart Overeating
"It's just a few bites." "A little won't hurt."
You've been "so good" for two weeks. Your jeans button without a fight. Then one night you're in the pantry with a box of Goldfish wondering what on earth just happened.
"I don't want to deprive myself."
You were on point all week. Then somebody brought cookies to the office, you had one, and the whole day was shot. So you finished the box and swore you'd start fresh Monday.
100 days is not a small number. It's enough time to build a habit, stress-test it during the holidays, and walk into January already ahead instead of starting from zero.