A Permanent Fix to an Unhealthy Body

There is a Chinese proverb that says, "One cannot refuse to eat just because there is a chance of choking." The meaning is that you shouldn't be afraid to try something just because there is a slight chance you'll fail.

We've all heard the claim that we need to stop dieting ... and instead make lifestyle changes to our daily routines and habits. And it doesn't take a rocket scientist to know it's true - LASTING changes in our body shape and health only occur through permanent changes in our lifestyle. But how frightening does that sound? It takes us out of our comfort zone! That's why people continue to try diet upon diet upon diet. Because it seems "short-term, doable, less painful than a full-scale lifestyle change." But in reality, it's the yo-yo dieters who suffer in the long run. The goal, if reached at all, is usually short-lived. Once the diet is over, old habits and lifestyles reign again. And lo and behold, the weight and poor health come back with a vengeance.

My challenge to you is to not be afraid of failure. Yes, there's always a chance we'll fail at anything we try, but the courageous are not deterred by that chance. The only thing you have to lose if you fail, is you remain overweight and in poor health. The thing you have to gain if you succeed is an entire new life with a healthy body and a healthier future.

So get out of your comfort zone and get away from the old-school notion of dieting. Do yourself a favor and don't be afraid to "choke." Make one healthy lifestyle change today...just one. And do it for a few weeks. It could be as simple as choosing to park farther away from work, or taking the stairs to your apartment, or walking a half hour every day, or drinking an extra glass of water, or adding one fruit to your meal... Simple, small changes. Begin to feel the success. Then build upon your success - until your new lifestyle choices have become your "old" way of doing things. The only permanent changes that will occur with your body are the ones that result from lasting, healthy, lifestyle choices.

One cannot refuse to eat just because there is a chance of choking.