As I’ve already said (probably several times) bad habits and cravings are the devil when it comes to dieting. Let’s deal with habits first. It takes me a good week or two to get into the dieting “habit.” The hardest thing is developing the new habit of preparing all of my meals. I mean actually preparing them. Not just grabbing something or relying on fast food. This is a new routine and I have to resist the temptation to add any of my favorite sides. To be honest, Carol does much of the dinner cooking, so we’re really talking about the rest of the day. The first week I had the enthusiasm of the new start, but I know the coming weeks and months will mean a mental battle to stick to the food plan.
So how to stay motivated and deal with cravings? My diet suggests scheduling a cheat meal once a week. It’s only one cheat meal, not an entire day of cheating! But I can add in a favorite item. The cheat can be something like hash-browns with breakfast, or a slice of pizza for lunch, or mashed potatoes with dinner. Afterward, it’s right back on the plan with my next scheduled meal.
The plan also suggests taking a few photos – probably for motivation. I suppose seeing the picture will help me strive for the goal? Although they said take front, side, and back pictures at the beginning, I only took a front. Maybe I’ll consider the others this week. Then I’m supposed to post the photos on my mirror – an inspiration to imagine how I might look without those pounds? I haven’t done the posting part. Honestly, seeing pictures of my fat person are not motivating, they are just depressing. But I’ll consider it.
Bad habits and cravings do seem more difficult to abate at a restaurant. It would be easy to blow my diet in one meal. To stick to the plan, I have to be diligent in ordering … dinner: grilled meats, steamed vegetables (no butter), salad (no cheese) with either fat-free dressing or vinaigrette. I usually just use vinegar and oil. I use so little dressing that it’s not really a factor. Lunch: a salad with protein of some kind. Breakfast: eggs or oatmeal. And that’s it.
So, how did I do today? I was invited to lunch with Carol and her kids for some mother’s day time. They are always so kind to include me in their celebrations. This test of my commitment went a little askew, however. Not that I ate stupidly or ordered a huge meal, I just made the wrong choice. That’s my fault for not sticking with what I know to be the right thing. I also need to renew my avoidance of anything with cheese when eating out (or in, for that matter)!! Lesson learned.
http://sansbs.net/menu-day-13/
Mom shared the email you sent her. I really enjoyed reading all of your blog. I think weight loss/healthy eating would be so much easier with a personal chef. It’s hard to prepare meals every day. Keep up the good work!
Thanks Sue!