Small Steps

A journey of a thousand miles begins with
a single step.

Lao-tzu
Try This:
 
On June 19th I knew the following week was going to be a challenge and I made plans to survive it and actually thrive.  I successfully maneuvered through the week and here is the first lesson I learned.

Lesson #1:  Desserts can seriously undermine my intention to make healthier choices.

Going into the week I had my sugar cravings under control and all the healthy choices seemed to be effortless.  I had planned my meals and got my exercise in where and when I could.  Then, as part of the plan, I enjoyed a celebratory dessert (a birthday mini Cinnabon).  Actually my plan included 2.  But what I didn't realize, was that the first one would be a trigger to eat the second and both would trigger cravings that I wasn't ready for.  I didn't realize the consequences of eating that dessert until the next morning when I ate one malasada, then another and then some other pastry.  I could feel the buzz and rush and the general unwellness of having eaten too many sweets.  After I finished devouring the pastries, I was able to stop long enough to know that I did not want to continue down that path.  Instead, I wanted to get back to feeling energized and in control of my choices, so I focused on foods that would satisfy me without triggering more cravings.  It took several more days to bring what I call my sugar fiend in check, but I got a chance to really see and feel what sweets do to me.  I am now better equipped and more willing to say 'no thanks'.

What will I do differently next time?
  • Eat dessert first.  Seriously, that way I can wash the sweet taste away with something savory and filling.  It's worked before.
  • Eat a bigger breakfast with a bit more protein than usual the morning after.

What will I do the same next time?
  • Plan meals and snacks.
  • Find time to relax and move.
  • Let others know that it will probably be a stressful time and that I need their help and understanding.
  • Accept that I did my best in the moment.
  • Celebrate just how far I've come.
What triggers your food fiend?
How'd it go?

Did you acknowledge that you did your best last week?
Check This Out:


Now Eat This!: 150 of America's Favorite Comfort Foods, All Under 350 Calories
by Rocco DiSpirito by Ballantine Books
Paperback ~ Release Date: 2010-03-02
List Price: $22.00
Our Price: $14.96
Buy Now

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Quote:


What is necessary to change a person is to change his awareness of himself.

Abraham Maslow
My Journey:
Shawndra's AFTER
I've lost weight twice before but I gained it back eventually.  This time I'm determined to keep it off and I realize that it's not a one time fix.  It's a journey.  And as with all great journeys, you learn as you go. 

I take these small steps with you each week because I also need to build and maintain the habits and behaviors that support me in my journey.  Thanks for joining me each week.  Have fun and enjoy your life!

more about my journey


Shawndra's BEFOREForward to a Friend




photos
above:  Shawndra,  2008 by Perceptions Unlimited

right:  Shawndra, Christmas 2003
 
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Shawndra Holmberg
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