How do I Stick to my Dieting Plans?

Despite the best of intentions, it can be difficult to stick to dieting plans. There are a few different methods that some people find useful; it is best to try different things until you find something that works for you, as each person's eating preferences and habits are different. For example, some people find that one of the best methods for sticking to dieting plans is to simply not keep tempting food in the house.

Some foods are simply too tempting to avoid when you are trying to diet. For instance, if your trouble foods are chips, cookies, or candy, rather than trying to keep them in the house and only eat them in small amounts, you might choose to not buy them at all. Replace these snacks with healthy snacks such as crackers or carrot sticks, and reach for those when you get the urge to snack.

Involving your friends and family in your dieting plans can also help you stick to them. That way, they won't ask you if you want various foods all the time, and they will be able to offer you support and encouragement. Food in the workplace can also be a challenge when trying to stick to dieting plans; bring a healthy lunch every day and bring a snack as well, rather than getting something out of the vending machine when you get a craving.

Some people find that saying a positive affirmation to themselves can help them stick to dieting plans. Rather than being discouraging or beating yourself up after you make a mistake on your diet, resolve to try again and do better next time. It may also be beneficial to create specific meal plans ahead of time, and not deviate from those plans.

If you decide in advance what you are having for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, for example, you will not have to think about it during the day, and will not develop cravings for different foods. Try new, creative recipes with healthy ingredients to stay interested and to actually enjoy your diet. Moreover, allow yourself a treat that you crave every now and then so you do not feel deprived. In addition, some people find that resolving to eat only at the table, and not scarfing down lunch at your desk or sitting on the couch eating a giant bowl of ice cream, is a simple and easy way to help stick to a dieting plan.