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How to Actually Get Results from Your Health Journey: What I Wish I Knew Sooner

Updated: Apr 8

So, you’ve been thinking about making some changes. Maybe your energy levels are low, the weight isn’t budging, or you just want to feel better overall.


You’re finally ready to start taking action—but where do you even begin?


I’ve seen so many people dive into new health routines with the best intentions, only to feel lost, frustrated, and stuck within a few weeks. And honestly? I’ve been there too.


So, before you start throwing money at expensive programs, supplements, or the latest trending diet, here’s what I wish I had known at the start of my journey—five key things that will save you time, maximize your results, and actually make your efforts worth it.



1. It’s Not Just About Weight Loss. The Bigger Picture Matters.

For the longest time, I thought weight loss was the only thing that mattered. If the number on the scale went down, I was winning. If it didn’t, I was failing. Sound familiar?


But here’s what I learned: weight is just one piece of the puzzle.


Your metabolism, hormones, gut health, sleep, stress levels, and daily habits all play a role in how you feel. If you only focus on weight, you might miss the real reason you’re struggling.


Before you start any new routine, ask yourself:

  • How’s my energy throughout the day?

  • Am I sleeping well, or waking up exhausted?

  • Do I feel constantly bloated or sluggish?

  • How’s my stress level?


Because sometimes, the problem isn’t what you’re eating—it’s how your body is responding to everything else going on in your life.


2. Be Honest About Your Habits—No Judgment, Just Results

I used to downplay my bad habits. I’d say I “mostly” ate healthy, even though my nightly snack habit was definitely adding up. I’d say I was active, even if my workouts were occasional at best.


It’s so tempting to tell ourselves we’re doing better than we actually are, but here’s the thing—if you’re not honest about your habits, you can’t fix them.


If you’re struggling with:

  • Emotional eating – Acknowledge it.

  • Inconsistent workouts – Own it.

  • Falling off track – Recognize why it happens.


There’s no shame in where you’re starting, but you have to be real about it to make progress.


3. Know Your Baseline—Track What’s Actually Happening in Your Body

One of the biggest mistakes I made was trying to “fix” things without knowing where I actually stood. I’d try to lose weight without knowing what my metabolism was doing. I’d assume I needed more energy without checking if I was low in essential nutrients.


Before making major changes, get a clear picture of where your health is at.


Some key things to track:

  • Your weight, but also your body composition (muscle vs. fat loss)

  • Sleep quality (Are you waking up tired?)

  • Hormones & metabolism (Are you struggling with slow progress no matter what you do?)

  • Nutrition (Are you actually getting enough protein, fiber, and healthy fats?)


You don’t need to obsess over numbers, but having some data helps you make smarter decisions. It’s like using a map instead of wandering aimlessly.



4. Set Realistic Expectations. Results Take Time (But They’re Worth It)

I get it—we all want fast results. But the reality is, sustainable health changes don’t happen overnight.


Here’s what happens when you do things right:

  • Your energy improves before the scale moves.

  • Your sleep gets better before your body changes.

  • Your digestion feels smoother before your clothes fit differently.


Instead of asking, How fast can I lose weight?, ask yourself:

  • What’s a realistic, sustainable goal for me?

  • How can I track progress beyond the scale?

  • What’s the best way to stay consistent when life gets busy?


Shifting your focus from quick fixes to long-term consistency is what actually creates results you can keep.


5. Have a Plan for Accountability—Because Motivation Fades

Motivation is great, but let’s be honest—it doesn’t last forever.


I used to start a new routine feeling super excited, only to lose steam after a few weeks. What changed everything for me? Having accountability.


Here’s what worked:

  • Tracking progress – Whether it was a fitness app, a journal, or taking progress photos, I needed something to keep me on track.

  • Having support – A coach, a friend, or a group that kept me accountable when I wanted to quit.

  • Planning for setbacks – Life happens. Having a backup plan meant I didn’t fall completely off track when things got tough.


If you’re serious about making real progress, set up your accountability system before you even start. It’s the #1 thing that will keep you from giving up.


Setting Yourself Up for Success

If you’re ready to make a real change, don’t just wing it.


Take the time to set yourself up for success so you’re not just spinning your wheels.


Here’s what to remember:

  • Think beyond weight loss – Your metabolism, sleep, stress, and hormones matter just as much.

  • Be honest about your habits – No judgment, just progress.

  • Know your baseline – Track what’s actually happening in your body.

  • Set realistic expectations – Small, consistent changes are better than drastic, unsustainable ones.

  • Have an accountability plan – Because motivation will fade, but consistency wins.


At the end of the day, the goal isn’t just to “get healthy” for a few months—it’s to create habits that actually last a lifetime.


So tell me—what’s one thing you wish you had known before starting your health journey?


Drop a comment below, I’d love to hear your thoughts! 


Want support that actually makes sense? Start your journey today!


Michael Stephens is the founder of The GLP-1 Source, a platform built from personal experience navigating the overwhelming world of health, fitness, and GLP-1 medications. After struggling to find clear, reliable information in a sea of conflicting advice, Mike created this website as a straightforward, no-nonsense resource for those looking to make informed decisions about their health. Whether you're exploring GLP-1 medications, optimizing your fitness, or building sustainable habits, The GLP-1 Source provides practical insights, expert-backed tips, and real-world guidance to help you on your journey to a healthier life.
Michael Stephens is the founder of The GLP-1 Source, a platform built from personal experience navigating the overwhelming world of health, fitness, and GLP-1 medications. After struggling to find clear, reliable information in a sea of conflicting advice, Mike created this website as a straightforward, no-nonsense resource for those looking to make informed decisions about their health. Whether you're exploring GLP-1 medications, optimizing your fitness, or building sustainable habits, The GLP-1 Source provides practical insights, expert-backed tips, and real-world guidance to help you on your journey to a healthier life.


 
 
 

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