3 Tips to Help Strengthen Your Self-Control

Are you in control when it comes to food? This is a tough question to answer, simply because so many of us seek solace in tempting aromas and sweet and salty snacks.

If you worry that you may not have the self-control to resist certain foods, here are some tips that will help you overcome temptation.

3. Not Quite Cold Turkey…

Quitting cold turkey can sometimes make things worse. The key to being successful on any healthy diet is to gradually train yourself to resist certain foods. This is important if you are ever going to be independent and accountable in your own actions.

Eat healthy during the week, but don’t be afraid to eat a piece of chocolate or enjoy a slice of cake every now and then. Just make sure it's always followed by something healthy. This will help you see these foods as a reward, rather than a necessary part of your diet.

Eventually, as your body adjusts to new healthy eating habits, your temptation for these foods will become less and less powerful.

Ultimately, your desire for these foods should go away completely.

2. Keep Reminders Handy

Pick out a picture that represents who you want to be in your future. Take this picture, and post it in areas where temptation seems to be the most prevalent.

Make multiple copies and place them everywhere—on your refrigerator, on your kitchen cabinet, on the computer screen at your office—places where junk food or sweets seem to be lurking.

Another tip—move your scale out of the bathroom and put it in your kitchen. It may seem weird, but it makes a lot of sense. This will serve as a powerful reminder when preparing your meals. It will serve as a reminder that whatever you put into your body will have a direct affect on that scale.

1. Don’t Be Afraid to be Distracted

When all else fails, don't hesitate to distract yourself.

Take yourself away from the temptation by going outside, or occupy your mind with a side project. Find a hobby that suits your interests, or just look for an excuse to walk outside—better yet, go to the gym.

If you want to distract yourself with healthy food, research a new recipe and cook up something different.

If you want to hone in on developing your culinary skills, take an evening cooking class so you can learn how to cook healthier.

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