Monday, November 19, 2007

Little Teale Rant.

While I understand that everyone will not feel the same way as me, this is just my opinion about what is right for me.

I hate when people tell me "go ahead and indulge, you deserve it" or "you've been doing so well, one day won't hurt your progress" or "you should treat yourself, it's a special occasion".

Specifically I'm talking about Thanksgiving, but it can apply to a variety of situations--birthdays, holidays, eating out, etc. I understand that some people "treat" themselves with food on special occasions. That simply is not logical for me. I became over 300 pounds from a lot of days treating & rewarding myself by using food. I'm obviously trying to do something about that, but it's somewhat irritating when I find people saying things that would ultimately sabotage me.

I know that the people that have said some of those things up there are not deliberately trying to say things that would make me "fall of the wagon" so to speak, but everyone's battle is different. What is good for one person is not good for another. So while "treats" might be great for others & motivation to get back on track the next day, "treats" are like a timebomb for me, how long until I "treat" myself with food for every good thing that happens? I am trying very hard not to continue associating food with emotions... and that not only means using food as comfort, but also using food as a reward.

8 comments:

Daniele said...

That's all very true Teale. I have been doing this myself.. even now in my new lifestyle, I sometimes think ' a piece of cake won't hurt' before I eat it.

Not associating food with emotion is the hardest thing. I applaud you for your attitude and how far you have come already.

Angela Power said...

I hear ya girlfriend loud and clear. Only you can make the judgment call if you are entitled to a "treat." FOr me it can be a scary slippery slope and most people don't understand that.

Twix said...

I agree not associating food with our emotions is hard.

As my children have gotten older we thought about this some and switched gears. We try to do other things unfood related for celebrations or what not. Maybe it will affect a whole nother generation differently and for the better.

Thank you for being there for me! ((hugs))

FAT BRIDESMAID said...

It took me a long time to figure out that so many times when people were urging me to "treat myself" it had very little to do with me and more to do with their own insecurities. It's hard to pass up treats on special occasions, and once someone else has given in it makes them feel better to see they're not the only one indulging. So if someone tries to pressure you just smile and politely decline. Then congratulate yourself on being a strong person. And then maybe imagine your future thinner self in a smokin' hot bikini. Why not?

Heather said...

I hear you..all of those "treats" and "indulgences" got me to where I was, over 200 pounds. You make a lot of sense and you just have to find away to turn off those voices that are saying it ok. I think people sometimes say it because we all think that is what the person wants to hear, that its ok to splurge. And it is ok, if that is what the person feels comfortable with. but you do what works for you because its working!

Lauren said...

I hear you, I'm trying to battle compulsive eating and compulsive shopping, which means I need to try and find another way to treat myself without spending money or eating. any thoughts?

Diana Swallow said...

I think there are people out there who want to see us fail, I know its sad to say but I think its true. Sure there are a few people who really think you deserve a "food treat" but its up to us to let them know that food isn't how we treat our selves any more.

Hayley said...

I personally do not believe in treating yourself with food, it will take you downhill from there - meaning once you start binge eating, there is no stopping