The Head Game

Weight: 222.2 -- I've been stuck here for a few days now. Not a good sign.

I read a blog post about whether it is better to try to change habits one step at a time, or to leap in full force. The writer initially believed that making one change at a time is the way to go, but now makes a case for leaping in and changing all bad habits at a time. He suggests that the one-habit--at-a-time method, bringing about slow change, may set us up for disappointment and loss of motivation as the pounds come off slowly. Perhaps this is what I am experiencing. I seem to lose weight nicely for a few days each week and then add a pound or two, even when I think I'm still eating reasonably. I admit I haven't been doing my fledgling exercise routine for the last 3 days, and I have no good reason for that. The writer also said that if we try to change everything that is a bad habit, even if we fail at some, we probably change more habits than we would if we only changed one thing at a time.

Last night I watched a Biggest Loser finale and was touched as I always am, at the phenomenal dedication of the participants. They hold nothing back in the gym, at the table, anywhere. I have to admit I am not there.

So does anyone have good ideas about how to stay motivated and focused? I think that, for me at least, the biggest difficulty in losing weight and improving my fitness lies between my ears. I need help with the mental aspects of this pursuit.