When it comes to weight loss, being aware is 50% of the solution.
Be aware of your thoughts.
I am thinking a lot about food right now, picturing it even. I'm imagining what it tastes like.
I wasn't expecting this, and it caught me off guard, so I'm just gonna give in and eat it anyway.
When will I ever be able to have another burger this good? I have to eat it, NOW.
I deserve a bowl of ice cream tonight. It's been a long day
Be aware of your stress.
Traffic is a nightmare. I'm late again.
If my kid screams one more time, I'm gonna lose it.
I can't believe he just said that. He is so insensitive.
By boss waited until 6 o'clock to throw this at me?
Be aware of your feelings.
Annoyed.
Disappointed.
Overjoyed.
Sad.
Irritated.
Tense.
Elated.
Being aware means not allowing your internal thoughts and feelings to go unchecked so that they spiral into an urge to overeat. It moves the subconscious into the forefront where it can be processed rationally. When we ignore the drama that develops in our minds each day, it just festers and builds. Then we wonder why we feel so desperate to unwind with food or alcohol every night.
Become aware of what's going in your mind, then you can recognize it while it's happening.
This is when the magic happens.
You become the watcher.
Here you observe what your brain makes your life mean. Here you can switch from reactionary mode into purposeful mode. You can make decisions, not based on how you feel in the moment, but what is in your best interest long term. Here you can take charge of your future.
What about the other 50%?
The second part of the solution requires going deeper. It's when you become aware of how you think and feel, but don't know how to take action to get the results you want. I have a strategy for that work, too. You can find it here.
~Molly