Uh Oh... The Major Pitfall

So I've come to my major getting in shape pitfall.

Overconfidence

You know... When you get to the point where you start seeing the results in yourself and say "Damn! Pretty good! My hard work and focus is paying off! It won't be that big of a deal if I have a big bowl of of Extreme Chocolate Moose-tracks ice cream."

It happens to the best of us. But that one bowl of ice cream, that one trip to Burger King, that one sneaky little vice item will send you on a slippery slope back to square one. I don't want it to happen, you don't want it to happen, so let's not let it happen. So I've listed some ways to avoid this problem or overcome it when the times comes, and believe me the time will come.

1. Have that Vice Item: But plan it ahead of time. This pitfall normally occurs when we don't lay out some ground rules in advance. When you want that item, give yourself a week. Not only will this in many cases make the craving go away and increase your willpower, but if/when you do have that item, it will be much more appreciated, enjoyed, savored, etc.

2. Make yourself work for it: You know that hunk of cheese cake packs a ton of calories so why not work extra to work it off ahead of time? Make it a weekend, have a killer cardio intensive morning workout, a light (but filling) lunch, and have it as an early afternoon treat.

3. Avoid the night time: Those extra calories from whatever slice of deliciousness you have will turn into fat as you sleep it off. No good.

4. Set Mini Goals: Not one big one. It's so easy to get discouraged when the final goal is so far away. Enjoy the journey. Celebrate all of your accomplishments.

5. Reward yourself with a non-food item: I am a shoe freak! As you progress with your change towards a better you, find something you lust after. Now spend the time until you reach your goal price shopping, or if you don't have an item, but a price limit, searching for what you can get with the most bang for your buck. Last time I managed to find a pair of brown leather boots that were originally $365 for under $200 with free shipping. Booyah!

6. Don't Give Up: Come back kicking ass! Everyone has their off days. Accept it and move on.