I Must Change

We have great power in our emotional minds to make both positive or negative choices. We are not powerless to our previous habits of eating more than we should, or not exercising. To develop the positive side of our emotions, however, takes effort. Daily we are bombarded by negative news on the T.V. or radio, or by the negative opinions of others. In this environment you must decide to tap into your positive mind, and decide to make choices for yourself that lead to the outcomes you want for yourself.

If it is weight loss, then first set a goal in your mind: "I am GOING to do this.” Know that you now will have to make healthy choices of foods and portions, but also know that the ultimate outcome is the great feeling that you will have accomplished what you set out to do.

Let's simplify this: If you say, "My goal is to lose 2 pounds this week;” then ask yourself, "Why?” The answer may simply be: "To feel better about myself.” Then comes the "How?” Ask yourself, "What do I have to do to achieve this?” Likely, it will be simply having smaller portions of food throughout the day, and having healthy snacks, especially in the evening. If you achieve this for just one day, at the end of the day you will feel good about yourself. That is, YOU decided to make a positive choice about eating patterns that will last a lifetime. (All because YOU decided to change.)

Similarly, we know exercise is necessary. But, you may feel tired from the day. You have two choices: to do something or to do nothing. Ask yourself, "Why should I do this?” Again, the answer most likely will be: "I'll feel better.” Once again, you are making a positive choice if you choose to do some activity. Put a few days, weeks, months together of exercise and I guarantee you will discover a new vibrant, healthy fit person inside that body. All because YOU decided to make a positive (not a negative) choice.

It is not easy to change mental habits. You have to work at it daily. It takes a lot of patience.

Think about your goals.

Decide why you want those goals.

Then begin making positive choices about eating and exercise.

Know you are the beneficiary of healthy and empowering habits.

You can do it!

Keep working at it!

Dr. Doug