Change Your Mind-Set to Start Losing Weight: Part 3

By Kristen Gunderson, Nutrition Educator

Over the past few weeks I’ve shared two unhealthy mind-sets when it comes to losing weight, along with healthier alternatives. First, I discussed having a specific action plan. Second, I reviewed the perfectionist mentality. Today, let’s talk about cheating!

Tip 3: Accept the idea that there is no such thing as “cheating” when it comes to eating, only choices

Another mind set to grasp is the idea that cheating really is non-existent. There is only choosing. Is this a new thought for you? This is especially true after you are educated and know why certain types of foods are terrible for you.

Referring to a behavior as “cheating” feeds a defeatist attitude, which leads to feeling like a failure, which enables you to give up, which is really the ultimate failure. Along the way, you also have not really owned up to the actual behavior. And you probably know better. We all do.

Let’s look at how choosing versus “cheating” can change the outcome for you.

Choosing:

For example, if you CHOOSE to have a piece of pie, knowing the sugar will cause you pain, the trans fats will decrease your metabolism, the gluten will make your stomach churn and the dairy will make you break out, you have made a conscious decision to live with the consequences of eating the pie. The pie really might be worth it to you (Let’s say it’s your birthday and you really want to eat a slice of pie). The good news is that by making this a conscious decision (I am choosing to eat the pie now) you make it easier to choose to eat a healthy meal or snack AFTER having the pie.

Cheating:

If you eat the pie and label it as “cheating,” it’s much easier to let yourself off the hook and let that cheating mentality snowball to the next meal, the next day, and possibly all the way to next Monday, when you will “be good” again.

The bottom line: Instead of viewing food choices like candy, cake, pastries, etc. as cheating, look at these decisions as choices. Take responsibility for the choice and move on. Make a conscious decision to make a better choice at your next meal or snack and set yourself up for success.