Part 4 - A Pinch Of This…A Dash Of That: Key Ingredients To Successful Weight Management

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By Mia Bolaris-Forget

If you’re the type to bite off more than you can chew, literally, and you want to shed your “insecurities” (aka….those “nasty” extra pounds) especially before “The Big Day”, you may just relish these little morsels for helping you sink your teeth into the sweet taste of success.

· Have Faith:actually accomplish your goal, you have to believe you can. Regardless of your fears, how many “failed’ attempts you’ve had, or any other (negative) thoughts you may be having, experts assert that your biggest challenge may not be food, but self-esteem and your belief system They note that before you can take control of your life (and negative patterns you are trying to break) you must first take control of your thinking, and confidence in yourself.

· Understand and Satisfy Your Emotional Cravings: In order to combat “detrimental” patterns you must first identify their emotional triggers. Do you wear your emotions on your plate? If so, experts say suggest finding a sweeter substitute, one that won’t affect your weight, appearance, health and self-esteem.

· Lead Yourself Not Into Temptation: If your temptation too happens to be apples, go ahead, indulge, otherwise it’s probably wise to refrain from your most palatable pleasures. Professionals suggest, eliminating temptations from your grocery list and shopping cart, but also avoiding “dangerous” environments, as well as reshaping your routine to stave emotional triggers associated with excessive and unhealthy behaviors and over indulging.

· Refine Your Tastes: Experts suggest that even “negative” reinforcement can become desired. Much like the saying implicating that even “bad’ publicity is good, the same concept frequently holds true for life patterns and behaviors. We, according to professionals, continue our adverse actions because we perceive the payoff as pleasurable. In order to replace the (bad) behavior we must first redefine “pleasurable” and then make the necessary and appropriate adjustments.

· Loose Weight By Gaining Control Of Your Choices: Experts suggest eliminating foods that offer little to no nutritional value and replacing them with more balanced, calorie-controlled foods that will satisfy your taste buds and your weight loss plan.

· Get Off To A Running Start: Make exercise a part of your day, your routine and your lifestyle. Pick an activity that you enjoy and that you’ll be more inclined to stick with. Start out slowly and (gradually) challenge yourself to do more. Remember, besides helping you burn calories and reshape your body, exercise also helps stave off illness, releases endorphins (which boosts energy) and improves your self-image.

· Make It An Organized Effort: Professionals point out that your rate of success increases when you have a strong support system. They recommend joining a group or organization where you can meet others with similar goals and struggles. In addition to making new friends, you will place yourself in a comfortable, “non-judgmental” environment that will allow you to both give and receive essential feedback and support.

Next: Part 5 - Success Drive >>