The mind drama of french fries....

I was having dinner with friends, and I made a comment on how fabulous the fries look that the waiter was carrying over to the table next to use. I jokingly said “I wonder if that gentleman would mind if I had a couple”. Her reply was “I didn’t think you liked fries”. My answer was that I loved French fries. Especially fries served with cheese and ranch dressing. She seemed shocked. I then explained that I don’t like the feeling in my stomach afterwards and all the stupid mind drama. Have you ever experienced the mind drama of why did I eat that? Why did I give in? Why could I not just have one or two? I used to obsess about French fries, chips and salsa, and triscuits and cheese. Once I started eating them, I felt like I could not stop. Now, I send my brain to “the afterwards” feeling and know that I don’t want that mind drama of again “why did I eat those” and “I have no willpower” plus the feeling of blah and heavy from all the grease and carbs. Try it, think about how you want to feel and remind yourself of what you will feel once giving in.

It took me lots of practice but it is something that I still have to use. Once you make it important on wanting to feel good in your body, you will be surprised how much easier it gets. I wanted to share something that I heard from another coach. She calls this the ABCD approach. Aware, Breathe, Curious, and Decide. When you are tempted to order the big cheeseburger and fries or the grilled chicken remind yourself of the ABCD method:

Aware of the choice and the consequences (further from your goal or the healthier you)

Breathe so you can relax and check in with your mind!

Curious on why you are so tempted and what are your options

Decide: You make the choice but think of how you will feel during the time of the meal or snack and the afterwards effect.

I loved this! It is something that I just heard and thought the anagram ABCD might help! What was also fun is she added E and F to expand. Envision your Future! How cool. If you want to have a future of a healthier new you, before you fix the bowl of ice cream….be AWARE, BREATHE, CURIOUS, DECIDE, and remember who your becoming E and F (Envision Future self).

I liked it or you could simply say, no I want to feel this afternoon, so I am not going to indulge in that huge cookie!

Hope this helps!