Diet Trap: Special Circumstances
How many times have you been doing great with your diet until something unexpected throws you off your game? Whether it’s a positive event (“Who can stay on a diet at a time like this? We need to celebrate!”), a social event (“ Who can stay on a diet at a party like this? Pass the dip!”), or a crisis (“Who can stay on a diet during times like this? A piece of cake will help me feel better.”), special circumstances can throw a wrench into a healthy diet.
Diet Tip: Try Small Portions
Let’s face it—some circumstances are more challenging than others, and you don’t want your diet to interfere too much with your life. If you find yourself in a situation where you feel you really can’t stick to your diet (or just don’t want it badly enough), it’s best to indulge, but on a small scale. Rather than taking it as license to throw your diet out the window (see
perfectionism), you can probably have nibbles of a few less healthy foods and maintain the feel of the occasion, but still stick close to your diet ideals. Giving yourself a little permission now and then can keep you from abandoning your diet altogether, so it’s a good trade-off for the long haul.
