A common tendency for New Year's resolutions "makers" is setting the bar too high and getting fried before they can actually complete their ultimate goal. Whether the goal is to lose 10 lbs, clean out the attic of total clutter, donate extra time to an animal shelter, or quit smoking, the initial intention is simply focused on the end result:
"I WILL FEEL SO MUCH BETTER WHEN I REACH MY GOAL..."
Humans LOVE quick fixes and instant gratification. Is it realistic to get in the car for a 500 mile road trip and expect to be there in 57 minutes? Um, nope.
What do we do on long road trips? We listen to music, we take in the scenery, we think and have inner reflection, we play I-spy-with-my-little-eye games, and we stop along the way for a pit stop or to take pictures of cool stuff. All of the aforementioned makes the road trip MUCH more enjoyable. It takes the same amount of energy to be happy or miserable. YOU are ultimately the one who chooses how to expend your precious energy. So choose wisely.
How will you reach your goals and continue on a path of self-improvement? The great way to start is to write your resolutions or goals down on a piece of paper that you will be able to see everyday. I sometimes tape my goals on my bathroom mirror or my front door so I can see them every time I get ready to take on my day!
Want to shed some pounds? Don't do a crazy crash diet. DIETS DON'T WORK IN THE LONG RUN. Let's keep it SIMPLE and just focus on food today. Exercise ideas will be in another blog. Try some of this food for thought:
Have smaller portions. Use a salad plate instead of a dinner plate so you'll be less likely to pile on more food than you should eat.
Eat balanced meals (healthy fats, lean protein, & friendly carbs) more frequently throughout the day. Skipping meals (especially breakfast) is not a fun or smart way to lose weight.
Add more fiber into your daily cuisine. High fiber foods like veggies, oatmeal, and brown rice are GOOD CARBS, low on the glycemic index and will make you feel full so you are less likely to overeat.
Go easy on the sauces. Ask your server to bring you dressing on the side. You may be avoiding up to 600 calories! You can also try using lemon juice and balsamic vinegar for your salad instead of a high calorie dressing.
Water does a body good. Drink a cup of water before you start to dive into your food. You will feel fuller and not have the usual desire to eat UNTIL you are full. Let your stomach and brain meet in the middle. It takes about 20 minutes for your brain to tell you how full you actually are. Your stomach will appreciate your patience.
Variety is the spice of life. Instead of going for the same types of food every single day, try mixing it up. Some of my favorite cuisines include those of Japanese, vegan, Mediterranean, macrobiotic, and anything organic :)
