I’ve started and restarted my health and fitness journey many times in my life. When I started once again back in October, I vowed to myself that I was starting for the VERY LAST TIME! I was so determined to make it work this time. Since then, I’ve had a few missteps, but every time I’ve picked myself back up again before I wandered too far off the path.
I still struggle with emotional eating. I’ve been tracking things in my fitness journal though, and I’m starting to see some patterns. There are specific situations and relationships in my life that make me want to turn to food. Anytime I have to deal with my ex-husband or feel like a negative situation is completely out of my control, it makes me want to throw in the towel and give up on myself. I know that makes no sense. Maybe it’s because in the moment, I feel like life is crappy, so I might as well enjoy something — and for me that’s food.
The old me would then proceed to eat everything in sight for the rest of the day thinking I had already ruined the day, so I might as well enjoy it! How stupid is that? Yet I’m pretty sure I’m not the only one who does it.
Make Decisions Instead of Excuses
But two things have changed for me. First, I eat mindfully. This means I also plan to eat off plan mindfully. If I feel like having a piece of chocolate or a cookie, I make a conscious decision and then I ENJOY it. This way, the experience lasts and feels positive.
Second, I take one day, one meal, one bite at a time. If I mess up, I don’t quit on myself and vow to start over again tomorrow. At the very least, I start over with the next meal, and sometimes I’ll even stop myself in the middle of a plate full of something I shouldn’t eat and throw it away. Then I make sure my very next bite is an intentional one.
Just take one small step at a time. And while you’re out there today making decisions instead of excuses, learning new things, and picking yourself up when you fall, remember that you are one day closer than you were yesterday!
Join the Conversation!
Are you an emotional eater? Have you developed any tricks to shake yourself out of it and get back on track? I’d love to hear any tips you have to share!
Photo courtesy of kjnnt | freedigitalphotos.net
