Behavior Modification Does Work

Once you've figured out what to eat and how much of it to eat in order to lose weight and keep it off successfully, you need to start sticking to that plan in order for it to work. It doesn't matter what you know if your actions don't follow through. So, assuming you've been reading this blog long enough to get where I'm coming from on what and how much to eat (and if you haven't, read my archives), I have some simple behavior modification suggestions for you.

1. Notice the circumstances surrounding when you have cravings for foods that you should avoid. A friend of mine said she used to keep her PC near the kitchen, so every time she used it she ended up wandering into the kitchen for a snack. After moving the computer to a different part of the house, she stopped getting the cue to eat every time she checked her messages. The same philosophy applies if that donut shop is on your way to work--change your route!

2. Make a plan before you hit the party food table. Are you going to focus on just one food you crave, or are you going to taste everything? How many times are you going to fill up your plate? If you think about your actions before you do them, you'll be less likely to slip up.

3. Make a plan before you look at the restaurant menu. Is this your day to splurge and indulge? You better make up for it tomorrow. If you can't make that commitment, stick to the healthiest choices and savor your food.

4. Make a plan before you visit that relative who always pushes unhealthful foods on you. Are you going to let him or her guilt you into eating that huge portion of lasagna? Or are you going to have a snack before you leave the house so you won't be so tempted and will still like yourself later? Your choice.

The idea is to be mindful of what you're doing when it comes to your eating choices, and not letting circumstances decide your actions for you. A little planning ahead can do wonders for your resolve and your success.