Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Rediscovery of Self II

The behavior aspect of the Weight Watcher program is actually integrated into all phases and areas of the lifestyle change.  My behavioral thoughts are what dictates what I order at the restaurant or what I write on my shopping list or how I prepare meals or whether I am able to better control the snacks I might have during the day. 

As I see it, my behavior is the sum of thoughts and rationale about the journey and the 'end game', so to speak.  I don't know the Weight Watchers biblical explanation about behavior, but I do know how I have reasoned with myself to understand the where's, why's, how's, when's, and what's of the whole ordeal.  It truly is an undertaking of huge proportions, in that, it requires that we look deep within and challenge ourselves to carry out the whole.  This is not a diet, it is a mindset to start a challenge, map out the course of action, and fight through to the end.  Then, and here's the really hard part, we have to live this for the rest of our lives in order to maintain that goal and not gain the weight back over time.

In order to move through this journey with a positive attitude requires knowing what has been eaten so far that day and just how much can be eaten for the spontaneous dinner out on the town.  It's always best to have at least one day to plan for a restaurant visit to facilitate healthy choices during the day and also when deciding what to order from the menu.  The Internet gives a huge boost to dining out because most restaurants have on-line menus including nutritional information.  Those of us doing Weight Watchers have to pay attention to total fat, carbs, protein, and fiber which tells us how many points our food will cost us.  And, this is why it's important to plan ahead, know what you're going to order, and stick to it.

Thirteen years ago I quit smoking after 34 years, so I told myself that if I could quit the tobacco addiction then I could absolutely reduce my weight and keep it off.
As we modify our eating behavior we learn just how strong our will power can be if we stay focused and determined.  I haven't stopped enjoying cherry pie or mashed potatoes, I 've only stopped the frequency and portions that caused problems.  It's the behavior, the mindset.

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