Step 2: Make Healthy Eating a Way of Life
Truth, I lost 100 pounds in two years. But, eight years later I still basically eat the same. Initially I used Weight Watchers, but any sensible plan is just as valid. The trick for me was choosing something that would work in any situation. In other words, pick something you can stay on weekdays and weekends, whether you cook or do takeout, at home or when you travel. Because, if you don't you'll quit. Quitting for me was not/is not an option. Quitting is the same as saying "I plan to gain back every ounce I lost and more." I had to choose something that I wanted to stay on for good. OK, maybe "wanted" is a stretch because I didn't want to be on a diet any more than I want to be on a budget. But, physics and economics don't care about what you want. They simply deal in cause & effect.
So, pick a plan that is going to let you have a life. That doesn't mean it is easy. Change is hard. But positive change is cumulative too. So, even though there were things about my program that I resisted, I could phase in these changes and make steady progress. (Just like you can take baby steps to gain financial security.) I have to admit, one of the things I resisted most has been recording all of my food. Not because I was cheating. But, because I had obsessed over food for so long I just wanted to live like someone who never had an issue with eating. And, it worked. I could make enough substitutions and exert enough portion control to get to my goal. But, ten years later I don't see a food journal the same way, or even generate it the same way- thanks to technology. So, what was once a chore and a stigma to me now seems a lot more of a resource to see how I can do even better. And, don't stress about the mistakes. That is why this is Step 2 and not Step 1. By making weight loss a team effort in Step 1 you are setting yourself up for permanent success whether today is a good day or not. You are not alone against a culture that is brainwashing you every day to use food for things food can never really accomplish: comfort, celebration, entertainment, company, etc. You are creating a new culture for yourself that says, really food has to just be fuel for a life where people and actions will provide all the comfort, celebration, entertainment and company I need.