An often-heard term when we were children was “I Give Up”. This proclamation would be used when we essentially felt that we could not complete a task or game such as finding the person hiding in “hide and Seek”, trying to solve a difficult algebra equation, attempting to fix a broken item, etc. As adults, we similarly will fall into the “I Give Up” mentality when the frustration occurs surrounding a mission we embark on that does not result in the desired outcome.
Moving the discussion to weight control (what a surprise, huh?) it is a very frequent occurrence when a person attempting to shed weight ends that journey to “give up” when results are not seen. Why continue on a weight control journey if your efforts do not result in the desired outcome?
Taking a step back and exploring the necessary steps for losing weight, it is key to focus on the behavioral patterns that resulted in the weight gain to be “given up”. We must, to either a small or large extent, “Give Up”:
- Ingesting too many carb-containing foods
- Regular use of alcohol containing drinks
- Sleeping in late as opposed to getting to the gym
- Snacking on derailing foods after dinner
- Highly processed, convenient microwavable meals
Many more bullet points may be added to this list of “Give Ups” required to successfully control weight.
It is very important that we do not allow ourselves to “GIVE UP” on trying to “Give Up” those eating/drinking behavioral patterns that are needed to achieve a higher level of health and happiness. The short term gratification brought to us by those unhealthy behaviors are not nearly as significant as the long term gratifications that come from successful weight control.
Several years ago my son and I went to see KC and The Sunshine Band in concert at a casino in Portsmouth VA. KC moved great on the stage but I was shocked to see him at least 100 pounds heavier than he was in the 70’s. Maybe he “Gave Up?
