In Nicomachean Ethics, Aristotle writes: “For the lesser evil can be seen in comparison with the greater evil as a good, since this lesser evil is preferable to the greater one, and whatever preferable is good”.
So, I guess the idiom that we have heard “Choosing The Lesser Of Two Evils” can be attributed to the great philosopher, Aristotle. This concept holds lots of relevance to the choices we make in many aspects of our lives. Sometimes we are faced with making a choice between two options, neither of which is a “good” one. However, by choosing rhe “Lesser Of Two Evils” we can mitigate/minimize the damages that occur from going down that road as opposed to the more treacherous one.
Let’s bring this concept to the weight control arena. Here are a few examples of when “Choosing The Lesser Of Two Evils” holds relevance:
- You are in a situation where everyone around you is drinking alcohol and you are being urged to join them. A light beer or glass of wine would be the “lesser of two evils” if the other choice was a Pina Colada.
- You are driving on the highway for a prolonged period, it is lunchtime and the next exit signs show several fast food restaurants and an IHOP. The “lesser of two evils” would be choosing the IHOP as a better protein and salad is offered than at the McDonalds or Burger King.
- You are desirous of an after dinner snack. That tastes sugary. Opting for a no sugar jello with a 15 calories per tsp whipped cream is a lesser “evil” than diving into a bag of M&Ms.
There are many other situations that occur when we are faced with not-so-great choices of food/beverages. Try at all times to choose the “Lesser Of The Two Evils”. By doing so, you will enhance the chances of long-term weight control success.
Anyone out there remember Carlos Santana’s “Evil Ways”…all the way from Woodstock, 1969.
