4 Tips to Nix Negative Self Talk

Redbook

ByREDBOOK

Here are four common, self-deprecating diet phrases that weight women down, as well as four smart word swaps that help build a healthier mind-set.

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1. Replace "I cheated" with "I chose."

The word "cheating" implies that you're an untrustworthy person who's broken a potentially unrealistic diet rule (such as, "No dessert until I've lost 20 pounds"). Instead, take responsibility for your behavior -- say, "I chose to eat that piece of cake." Doing so puts you back in the driver's seat and empowers you to make decisions in the future based on what makes sense for you in the moment -- not on what some too-strict diet dictates.

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2. Replace "I can't lose weight" with "I can lose 3 pounds."

The first statement simply isn't true: Most people can lose weight. But saying you can't mentally closes the door on the possibility. Instead, set a realistic goal that you know you can reach, even if it's losing just 1 pound. Then, when you hit your mark (and you will), you'll trust in your own abilities -- and you'll feel excited about setting more goals.

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3. Replace "I was bad" with "I'm proud of myself."

Judging your behavior as "bad" only reinforces that behavior. For instance, if you're bad, and bad people eat cookies, then you might as well have another cookie. A better bet: Honestly assess what you ate throughout the day, then focus on one of your more healthful decisions, such as opting for a salad over fries at dinner. Recalling a choice you're proud of will remind you that you're not totally off track -- so why veer off any farther?

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4. Replace "I can't eat that" with "I can eat that."

Focus on all of the delicious foods you can enjoy when you're eating healthfully. As long as you keep an eye on portion sizes, nothing is off-limits -- even the occasional slice of cheesecake! Remember, completely depriving yourself of any food will only make you crave it more -- and up the odds of a bingefest later.


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