Make Your Diet Work

It is just human that for most people ‘diet’ might just mean miserable, punishing and never-ending deprivation! Whether you do this thing called ‘diet’ on your own steam or whether you follow a scientifically and professional state-of-the-art program, the number one priority to successfully complete it, is a change in attitude.

To change your attitude is better said than done, I agree. But here are some valuable tips to assist you and keep you focussed through your endeavours:

1. The first step is to decide you really want to change. Make a list of the benefits you believe will result if you succeed in following your diet. Remember to regular check how you make progress with these benefits.

2. Set yourself realistic goals – it is a pipe-dream to believe that weight gained over 5-10 years can be lost in a week or two.

3. Implement a food or eating journal or diary and keep it every day – remember to be honest and precise.

4. Temptations will be there and it is human to succumb to it – but, one mistake won’t mean the end of your diet. Do not collapse in guilt. Make peace with yourself, remove those things or thoughts that lead to the temptation and carry on with your diet.

5. Serve yourself small portions on a small plate. It will look less skimpy; and you do not need to eat different food from the family. You can still eat family favourites but serve yourself one-third less than before.

6. Eat slowly. Taste your food. Do not allow other family members or companions to rush you.

7. Build support for success. Educate those close to you to reinforce your efforts. But, dieting and eating habits are your responsibility. Do not expect somebody else to control your actions.

8. Act thin. Walk confidently at any weight and you will look better and feel better.

9. Look at yourself in the mirror once a day but weigh yourself only every week or two. The reason is that weight fluctuates from day to day and these fluctuations can discourage you.

10. Get some form of exercise regularly; at least three times a week. Even a brisk walk with the dog will suffice.

Once you reach your desired weight do not revert to your old eating habits. Keep up the good work and compliment yourself on accomplishing something terrific.