Many of the same motivational tips that may have helped you reach your weight loss goal can enable you to retain your ideal weight. Here's a collection of the most helpful:

•  A lapse is a small mistake or return to old habits. This can happen when you have a bad day and overeat or skip exercise. A relapse is when you go back to old habits for several days or weeks. Remember that having a lapse or relapse is not failing. You can get back on track.

•  Think about whether you feel hunger (gnawing in your stomach) or urges (mental cravings for food). When you feel an urge, set a timer for 15 minutes and wait, or do something else before eating. This will teach you to delay your desire for food.

•  Try to use other ways to respond to life's stresses besides eating. Take a brisk walk, start a new hobby, or calm yourself through meditation.