====================== Do You Give Yourself A License To Eat? ======================
"If I lose weight, it's a license to eat. If I gain weight, it's a license to eat."
It's easy to be "reactive" to changes on the scale, either up or down.
Some people have responded to this problem by avoiding the scale altogether.
While that solution may be helpful, it would be better if we could learn not to "overreact" to a number on a scale.
Not "overreacting" means being more even minded, being able to remain calm no matter what the scale says.
For this reason, I actually LIKE the scale - for both accountability and the fact that it REQUIRES emotional management skills.
If the number is higher than you want, then it's the ability to manage disappointments and setbacks - being able to see it as a temporary setback and not abandon yourself emotionally.
Here are some tips:
1. Be prepared when you step on the scale that you may not like what you see. Be willing to accept whatever you see.
2. Know that weight can fluctuate by several pounds even if you do everything right.
3. Strengthen the ability to calm yourself in the moment, when you feel frustrated or upset, and not be overwhelmed by it. "Stay calm . . . stay calm . . . and make a plan."
If the number is lower, then you have to be careful not to sabotage yourself.
If you've been restricting and/or vigilant about what you eat, then there's a little kid inside that wants to come out and play!
You may also be scared of success and uncertain about how to handle it, and/or hang onto it.
Here's some tips:
1. Stay calm and review what you may have done that helped you get to this point.
2. Know that weight can fluctuate from day to day, and there will be ups and downs. Stay on your plan (you do have one, right?)
3. Relax and acknowledge your success, but do NOT celebrate with food!
Strengthening your emotional management skills will help you in all areas of life.
Don't let the scale throw you into the bushes!
Over time small steps make a huge difference.
There's a difference between interest and commitment. When you're interested in doing something, you do it only when it's convenient. When you're committed to something, you accept no excuses; only results.
Second mini goal finally reached - another 5 lbs lost, for a total of 10. WooHoo! Next mini goal:
That is so, so true. The scales have always been my worst enemy. They could make a good day awful in a fraction of a second. And yes, I've celebrated with food when I reached a goal and comforted myself with food when I didn't. I'll be reading this one often.
