Change is Hard – So Let’s Make it Easier!

Have you ever thought, “I know what I need to do, I just have to do it!”? Moving from the “knowing” to the “doing” is such a common barrier for all of us because, let’s face it, change is hard. And when it comes to making changes for weight loss? Really hard! But did you know that the approach most people take to lose weight can make it even more difficult?

The Not-to-do Approach
Many people attempt weight loss through a lens of deprivation - what we call a “not-to-do” approach: “Don’t eat this!”, “Don’t eat that!” and no matter what, “Stay away from those!” There are serious challenges with this approach. First, there are just so many not-to-do’s out there! Many of the most popular foods today are also highest in calories, and every day more of these foods are introduced into the marketplace. Complicating matters, most people bring a history of eating higher calorie food with them as they’re trying to lose weight. You could say they’ve developed a habit of eating high calorie food – and that is a very tough habit to break. Finally, there’s the simple fact that it’s a lot harder to say “No” to food than it is to say “Yes.” And that’s what the not-to-do approach rests on, saying, “No” to food… all the time. Take these challenges together and it’s no wonder that this approach is very popular.

A To-do Approach​
So, here’s how to make weight loss easier: practice a “to-do” approach. To-do behaviors are the focus of the diet plan for several good reasons: There are a select few to-do’s versus unlimited not-to-do’s. This keeps the task clear, which helps you stay focused and committed. The to-do’s can be easily measured. When you practice a to-do, you can assign a value to it and easily add it to what you’ve already done. This feels good, like you’re pushing a rolling ball downhill. In contrast, how do you measure not eating cake, avoiding cookies, or skipping pizza? To-do behaviors follow a simple rule we call “Eat More for Better Weight Loss.” We’ve found that the more you do of the to-do’s, the more likely you are to stick to the diet, and the better you do with your weight.

The Bottom Line
Your weight loss success comes down to practicing new “to-do” behaviors to build new, healthier habits. Focus only on the things that will help you be successful. This approach is simpler, more motivating, and easier than trying to think about all the things you shouldn’t be doing. And it can help you feel more successful.

“The secret of change is to focus all your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” – Socrates