Dealing with the "Slips" in our Dietary Goals.

Mistakes are the portals of discovery.
-James Joyce

Setting goals for ourselves is the basis for making positive changes in our lives. A good goal leads us in our chosen direction and is reasonable and attainable. But having reasonable expectations for ourselves can be a challenge.

If we believe we should always be perfect then we are setting ourselves up to fail. We follow our plans carefully to reach our goals but we have to allow for some imperfect moments.

Slips, backslides, and relapses, are all part of the learning process. We can become angry, frustrated, and demoralized by our mistakes. These feelings can further distract us from getting back on track quickly to keep moving forward.

So what do we do to help maintain balance between our goals and our actions?

• Follow your plan closely, but don't expect perfection.
• Don't give in to negative self-talk that might derail your efforts.
• Use positive self-talk to counter the negative.
• If you are fixated on your efforts to the point of frustration, then take a planned break from your regimen with a small (not overly-indulgent) reward for what you have accomplished. Then immediately get back on track.
• Recognize what you need and ask for it. Others want you to do well and they want to help.
• Vent your concerns and get the support you need.
• Don't quit. The only real mistake is in not trying.

Remember that one of the keys to living well is Balance. Sustainable lifestyle changes are measured over time, not by one meal or one incident. Pace yourself in your efforts. You can do it.

Live Well.