Why Haven’t I Lost Weight?

For the past decade, my doctor has been telling me to lose ten pounds. It sounds simple enough: eat less, especially carbs, and move more. But even though I know what to do, I haven’t done it. This struggle is a lot like what many Canadians face with saving for retirement. Knowing what to do and actually doing it are two different things.

1. Unhealthy Eating Habits

I love a juicy 16 oz ribeye (medium rare, please) with white rice. Do I really need 16 ounces of steak? Could I switch to potatoes, which are lower on the glycemic index? And do I need to snack on potato chips while watching the Jays lose? Maybe carrot and celery sticks could help with my weight. Often if I can overcome some of my bad choices, I might make a dent in the weight issue.

It’s the same with saving money. We know we should put away a portion of our paycheck, but we often spend on things like a new fishing rod instead of adding to our TFSA. Yet, by having the discipline to set aside even a small amount, we can make a dent in our savings goals.

2. Lack of Physical Activity

I sit at a desk all day, staring at three computer screens, so finding time to exercise is tough. Scheduling a workout at 6 am before the day starts is crucial for me. If I sleep-in, chances are I won’t get any exercise that day.

Saving money is much like exercise – you need to do it. We stress the "pay yourself first" strategy is key. Look at your spending - can you save $50 a week? By cutting out my daily coffee habit, I saved $50 each week. We can help you invest these savings each month.  As a matter of fact, we'll take it right from your bank account before you have a chance to spend a penny! (Hence pay yourself first.)  I guarantee you won't miss it and it will be habit-forming.   Often, we coach our clients to increase the savings yearly.  You'll be surprised how quickly the funds will grow and you'll be motivated to save more.

3. Emotional Factors

I crave certain foods and use eating to cope with stress. In 2008, during the Financial Crisis, I gained a lot of weight from “treating myself” too often.  In moments of boredom, potato chips solve the problem.  I know that giving into these cravings and coping mechanisms isn’t healthy or productive.

It’s similar with money. “Treating yourself” doesn’t mean buying a designer bag every time you’re stressed or have a bad day. Examine your relationship with money and understand what it truly does for you.

4. Slow Progress

I know I won't drop 10 lbs. overnight - but it's frustrating not seeing immediate results.

Building wealth also takes time. The "Rule of 72" shows that at a 6% return, your money doubles in 12 years. At 8%, it doubles in 9 years. Patience and consistent investment yield rewards. It’s about time in the market, not timing the market.

5. Social Influences

Peer pressure, social events, and cultural norms can make healthy eating and regular exercise hard. Fad diets can mess up our disciplined approach. The grapefruit diet of the eighties drove me away from the fruit forever!  IT worked in the short term, but it wasn’t sustainable.  What we need are evidence-based strategies focused on balanced nutrition, portion control and regular physical activity for long-term success.

The media often throws a wrench into our long term approach to wealth creation.  It is easy to be deterred by headlines filled with geopolitical concerns, tax changes, high interest rates and market fluctuations.  At the Mah Investment Group with over 35 years of investment experience, we emphasize time-proven investment strategies, steering you clear of fad investing (like Cannabis and dot-com stocks) and warning you of hot tips.

6. Knowledge is Paramount

Understanding the basics of nutrition, portion control (getting over the shock of how tiny a 6 oz steak is!), and effective weight loss strategies can be overwhelming and confusing. A dietitian or personal trainer can help navigate this and keep you on track with your long-term weight loss goals.

The Mah Investment Group is your financial coach. We help you set realistic financial goals and provide personalized guidance, education, and support. Importantly, we help you stay focused despite the "noise" that can distract from your financial goals.

Until there’s an Ozempic for wealth management, we’re here to help. Build More with Mah.