"Little changes to your current eating style, like downsizing portions or preparing foods differently, can add up to big results," says Stettner. Totally cutting yourself off from comfort foods or snacks that you crave is not a good move because it increases the chance you will overdo it the next time your will breaks and you load up on chips. Some of the best weight loss motivation is a little wriggle room. Often, people simply lack the motivation to get started or lose their motivation to keep going. To make things worse, the way you approach weight loss can drain your weight-loss motivation. For instance, setting unrealistic goals can throw you off track and even detract from your determination and drive. To fuel your success, use these 12 science-backed tips to stay inspired, excited, and oh-so-motivated while you lose weight. 1. You need to cut out only 150 calories a day to lose 15 pounds in a year, so start small to have a better chance at maintaining your weight loss motivation. Starting and sticking to a healthy weight loss plan can sometimes seem impossible.