Filtering Out The Negative

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Today, I want to give you the meeting summary from my Weight Watchers meeting on Saturday, April 28, 2012.

How to Be Your Own Best Friend
Is self-compassion the missing ingredient in your weight-loss plan?
Article By: Megan Gressor 

Whether positive or negative-your thoughts can impact your results on the scale. Are you often too critical of yourself? When you go off-Plan, how do you treat yourself? How do you learn to like yourself more? The same way you befriend anyone else: Take the time to get acquainted; look for the good; and be kind, supportive and non-judgmental. Here are more ways you can give yourself the love you deserve every day.

1. Make a list of your many positive qualities
Read your list often. It could include anything from being a good singer to a loving parent. List every attribute that makes you a worthwhile, likable individual.

2. Pay yourself a compliment every day
Focus on a different attribute — your clear complexion, pleasant voice, good fashion sense — and say out loud: "I love my ___." It may sound forced at first, but it's a useful counter to self-doubt.

 3. Do things you know will help you feel better about yourself
This could be anything from getting a new hairstyle to losing that first 10 pounds. Tackle the easiest first, to build confidence in future efforts.

4. Give yourself (nonfood) regular treats
Buy yourself flowers, take spontaneous day trips. You'd do these things to make loved ones feel good; aren't you worth the same consideration?

5. Spend time with those who care about you
You'll soon share their good opinion of yourself! If there aren't as many supportive people in your social circle as you'd like, consider ways of expanding it to increase your chances of positive feedback. Ask yourself: "Who will help me feel good about myself?" Apart from your immediate circle, consider neutral outsiders.

6. Avoid situations that reinforce self-doubt
This could involve re-examining long-established relationships — perhaps with a critical relative or colleague who is continually reinforcing damaging self-perception. Are you forever seeking another's approval but never getting it? Rather than simply taking the criticism, you could:
• Retreat from the relationship a bit.
• Stop hoping for approval.
• Respond more assertively to harsh remarks (Example: "I feel bad when you call me 'stupid.' I would prefer that you addressed me with more respect.")

7. Try a little kindness 
Instead of beating yourself up whenever you goof up, give yourself the benefit of the doubt, same as you would anyone else. Focus on your achievements, not faults. Chances are, once you start looking, you'll be surprised at just how many there are!