Overindulgence- Dieting and more

A goal without a plan is just a wish.
-Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Dieting can be seen as an effort to reset the body's balance to a healthier weight. Yet the effort to establish a new weight can make us feel off-balance or even deprived.

Our current methods of maintaining ourselves have worked, at least to some degree. Changing those methods is inherently stressful. If we don't find ways to deal with that stress, our frustration will continue to build.

If we let our frustration continue to build, we make ourselves susceptible to an impulsive decision that takes us off our planned course. Depending on the scale and duration of it, you can call this an overindulgence, a binge, a relapse or just a poor decision.

Make a list of all the reasons why you want to lose weight. List the ways you can deal with uncomfortable feelings; call a friend, take a walk, etc. List the resources you have to help you (including Insight Associates). Look at these frequently, and use them, to help you avoid feeling deprived of what you want in terms of food.

Plan to reward yourself when you achieve important milestones; this can help limit your feeling deprived.

If an incident happens, stop as soon as you are aware of what you are doing.

Talk to someone who can support you as you get back on track.

Don't beat yourself up with guilt.

Return to your plan immediately.

Start to deal with your underlying frustration next.

Look out for food substitutes like overspending, alcohol or drug use, gambling, etc.

Make a plan to help you work out the situations that caused the frustration.

Ask for the help you need.

Recognizing this simple process can help you cope with overindulgence incidents quickly and effectively. Talk with friends and participate in local programs that will help you to be successful.

Live Well.