How do I stay focused

[Lou0309]

I am really struggling to not "cheat" when my family cook their dinner, and also i have had to not sit with the family when they are eating their dinner. I get so depressed, especially over the weekends, when i don't have work to distract me. How do i stay focused??? :(

[James G Beckerman, M.D.]

I think it's important to treat yourself on a regular basis.  Remember that weight loss or living a healthy lifestyle is a long term goal - and pizza once in a while is just a part of life.  It may be helpful to structure in some meals that you really enjoy - start with once a week.  You can look forward to it during the week and then have fun on the weekend.  But stay as disciplined about your splurge as you are about the other twenty meals of the week.

Another strategy is to really think about what the rest of the family is eating.  If you're eating healthy, why aren't they?  It seems that if everyone is part of the solution, then there won't be as much of a problem.  Stick with it - I know how hard this can be.

[bluekoolaid]

I agree, don't deprive yourself.  I've lost 42 lbs before I found this website.  The way I've done it is to just try to eat in moderation, if I mess up by eating b/c I'm bored or whatever, the next day I just get back on track.  When I used to beat myself up over having donuts, or eating too much one day, I'd give up since I thought I had to be perfect.

I cut out soda, and switched to diet soda.  I'm sure that in itself allowed me to drop ten pounds this past year.

I also try not to eat late in the evening.

[James G Beckerman, M.D.]

Absolutely!  Keep up the good work!

[Lou0309]

Thank you James, I suppse I thought that having a "treat" once in a while would sabotage all of my efforts, sometimes it's hard to see the bigger picture. Thanks again for your words of encouragement... :)