Regret...and what to do about it.

Regret.

That is exactly what I felt when I woke up Monday morning after going out with friends on Sunday and eating and drinking in a way that wasn’t the “new me”.  But, it was the “old me” for many years.

“I know better.”

“Why do I still do this?”

Those were the two thoughts that started their incessant loop in my head for hours until I could manage to get them under control.  And the only thing those two thoughts did was make me feel bad about myself. They made me beat myself up.

They did NOTHING to help me move forward or learn something from the situation (like what were my triggers? What were the thoughts that started the cycle?)

You see, I spent 20 years reinforcing those old habits, and they don’t just magically disappear.  Although I didn’t know it back then, every time I said yes to things I didn’t want to do, I reinforced that habit.  And the brain likes habits - they’re shortcuts that don’t require energy.

If you are trying on new habits with your eating and way of thinking, cut yourself some slack!  Sliding back into an old habit loop (aka doing things you are trying to give up) doesn’t mean there is anything wrong with you!  It was just a habit loop that your brain fell back into.

So what do you do?

1. Refuse to engage in negative thoughts about yourself or the situation.  Remind yourself that it was just an old habit and there’s nothing wrong with you.  

2. Put on your detective hat and start figuring out what you can learn from the situation.  What information can you pick out that would help you the next time you’re in a similar situation?

This new you...she requires practice.  And every time you engage in a way that reinforces the person you are trying to become, you are building a new habit.  Be patient and keep doing the work!

And if you need more guidance, I can help!  Schedule an exploratory call!