Making the Change for Good - Part 2
Yesterday I reviewed the first initial stages of change a dieter goes through to be successful. Today I will continue with a few more pertinent stages starting with the action stage.
4. Action: This is where real commitment and work takes place. It also the phase where many a failing occurs. You have to actively and willingly participate in the steps involved to lose your weight. You have a real gut level of true acceptance of the fact that there has to be real change around your eating behaviors.
For example, emotional eaters need to address underlying issues. They
will have to endure the discomfort of not eating as a balm to the
stressers of life. Couch potatoes will have to get off the couch and
move more. Many of you will have to shop, plan and prepare healthier
meals instead of relying on fast foods. None of this is comfortable or easy at
first. These actions require effort but the rewards will
be great!
5. Maintenance: Many people think this is the end when it can be the most challenging stage of
all as it requires a person to maintain all the positive behaviors that
have been acquired to achieve success. It's easy to fall into old habits when complacency sets in. This is why
it's always important to frequently affirm why you are making the changes in the first place and acknowledge your efforts. Another aspect to this is to
realize that you will in all probability recycle through the various stages. Just don’t give up and you will get there.
Maintenance is not the end here. I'm not done! There is more to come yet tomorrow!
