There is a problem inherent in all weight loss programs...they are utterly compliance-dependent. Weight loss programs are, by definition, comprised of a series of steps. If these steps are not taken, even the most efficacious program will fail. If the steps are taken successfully, even an average program will yield some results.
Underlying each step is a decision (do or not do) and behind each of these decisions are mental and emotional phenomena and mechanics. These must be understood and resolved before any program is undertaken. It was the great Sun Tzu who said, “Victorious warriors win first and then go to war, while defeated warriors go to war first and then seek to win” He was correct... the mental game must be won!
What follows is a 3 step plan to win the mental game and achieve weight loss results.
Step One - Choose Certainty
It is commonly believed that certainty is a conclusion based on proof and experience. This is incorrect. Certainty is a choice. Don’t believe it? Think back to a time when you just knew something for sure even though you had no proof or experience in the matter. Conversely, have you ever doubted something that was an established “fact?”
We seem to hold on to doubt because we perceive it will protect us from failure or imagined harm. This is a terrible strategy as doubt kills possibility. Its presence tends to dictate both if we will participate in some beneficial activity and how we participate in the activity once chosen.
It can be difficult to know which path to choose when it comes to a topic as hotly debated as weight loss. It is certainly the case that some programs are more effective than others. Do your research. Make sure you’ve chosen a sound and sensible program (If you are not sure which weight loss program to participate in, check out this article).
Once you’ve made your decision, choose to be certain it will work! It is, in fact, up to you. Leave your doubts at the door. They will not benefit you. Half-heartedness and constant questioning of the path you’ve already chosen has never been, and will never be, a strategy for achieving outstanding results.
Step Two - Be Aware of Resentments
Nobody wants to begin a weight loss program. Nobody wants to be in a situation where they have to lose weight. It is a “have to” and it runs directly counter to one of our greatest desires...the desire to be free. Let’s face it: we want what we want when we want it and we dislike constraints intensely. Weight loss programs are nothing if not constraints against freedoms and pleasures. This brings with it many resentments which lead to internal conflict. “I don’t want to do it. But I have to. But I don’t want to. But I have to. And on and on...
So, we grit our teeth and use our will power to overcome. This strategy can work, at least for a while. The problem is that it involves force and will ensure the war continues. There can be no victory when the enemy is ourselves!
The solution, then, is that we must first become aware of our resentments. Oh sure, we know the feeling of resentment but what, specifically, do we resent?
What “freedoms” are we “sacrificing?” Write it down. Shine the light of truth on it and see if those resentments don’t release their grip a bit.
Step Three – Gird Yourself for the Effort
Effort is an inherent and necessary component of any weight loss program and, yet, we are often unprepared or unwilling to expend it. We assume that effort (along with energy, money and time) are scarce resources and that giving them up will feel painful, like we're giving away pieces of ourselves. Be assured, these resources are renewable and limited only by the perception that they should be held onto tightly.
How much effort are you willing to put forth? How much are you not? Find the limits of your willingness and you may find how likely you are to achieve your desired results.
Or better yet, follow the advice set forth by Grant Cardone in his terrific book, The 10X Rule and be willing to multiply your efforts by 10X. You will then be assured of success.
Summary -- Each of these topics can probably fill an entire book. In addition, they each affect each other in various ways;
Uncertainty will lead to resentment and a lack of willingness to expend resources. Resentment will lead to uncertainty and a lack of willingness to expend resources. An unwillingness to expend resources will certainly lead to uncertainty and resentment. The solution to these problems starts with the awareness that they exist and a willingness to take them on. Sometimes we forget about how strong we really are and what we have overcome in our lives. If you find that you've forgotten, please use this as a reminder and know that you are appreciated.
Dr. David Rendelstein offers an all-natural, fully customized scientific approach to fat burning, weight loss and improved health, with offices in Cranford, Marlboro and Toms River. For more information, please call 908.325.5192.
This article appears in the April 2019 issue of Natural Awakenings Magazine Monmouth Ocean edition. Click here to subscribe, thanks :)