The Labor Day holiday is here and you've probably made your plans. Are you doing the cooking this year or are you going out? In either case, it would be helpful to consider the following:
On Labor Day, how unpleasant would it be for you...
to have one holiday treat
not at all slightly moderately very
to not eat all you want
not at all slightly moderately very
to stay on your diet
not at all slightly moderately very
to miss out on seconds
not at all slightly moderately very
to tell people you're trying to lose weight
not at all slightly moderately very
to limit your drinking so you can stay in control of your diet
not at all slightly moderately very
How did you answer? Did you think of any other unpleasant possibilities?
Forewarned is supposed to be forearmed, but this is not always the case. It’s best to prepare for the unpleasant by making a plan for how you’ll cope. Make a good plan with lots of specifics.
Plan for what will keep you away from the “very” unpleasant and deliver you to the “moderately” unpleasant. And plan for going from “moderately" to “slightly” unpleasant as well. The more pleasant you make it the easier it will be for you.
After all, on Labor Day of all days you deserve a rest. Put the travails of the dieting work behind you, and stay on or at least close to your diet by anticipating the rough spots and planning for them.