We Tell it Like It Is

So, this is the #1 resolution I'm guessing for many people. About 3 yrs ago, I lost over 40 lbs. and have been able to keep it off. Over the holidays this past year, I gained about 5 lbs so I have to get that off asap. Here's what I have done to lose the weight and keep it off:

1) A SERIOUS lifestyle change. Either you commit 100% to it or don't do it at all. I had the moment when I told myself this is it; I will not tolerate being fat & unhealthy anymore. For me, I stopped eating things I could live without: meat, fast food, & pop (which I will still have maybe a few times a year in a cocktail). And I stuck with that.

2) The bad things I love, which are sweets & beer/wine, I still allow myself once a week (with the exception of the holidays). I eat other things in place of sweets during the week (dried fruit). I forced myself to eventually be convinced fruit could replace chocolate.  

3) I had temptations, cravings, withdrawal, etc. but I suffered through it without giving in and it all eventually went away.

4) I got addicted to exercise. It takes about 30 days to form a habit. I forced myself to run 3-5 miles a day, 4 days a week until I felt guilty NOT doing it and it became a regular part of my life without question.

The key is to stick with the self-punishment and know that you are doing something good to your body. Your old eating habits/lack of exercise is the true self-punishment to your body. WILL POWER. WILL POWER. Your new healthy habits will eventually turn into the norm for you and it will get easier.