I’ve tried all sorts of diets in the past – keto, vegan, carnivore, intermittent fasting – you name it. None seemed to work for me. Controlling my weight and eating habits had always been a struggle.
But then, something clicked last year. I started living and embodying the person I envisioned myself to be. I romanticized my lifestyle, including my food choices, and found a sustainable way to live healthily and happily in my body.
Instead of obsessing over being skinny, I focused on being content and healthy. I chose habits that I genuinely enjoyed and that I could stick to for the long haul without feeling deprived.
Visualizing my ideal body and setting clear goals was my first step. I wrote them down and imagined myself living in that body, enjoying delicious foods while feeling amazing every day.
This process helped me uncover deep-seated issues that were holding me back, like inherited unhealthy eating habits from watching my mom struggle with diets. Understanding these patterns allowed me to reframe my thoughts and stop self-sabotaging.
I also found it crucial to fill my mind with new interests and hobbies to distract from obsessive thoughts about food. Instead of viewing food as the enemy, I focused on portion control and moderation while enjoying foods I loved.
Studying the habits of naturally slim individuals was eye-opening. I adopted practices like eating slowly, mindfully, and with smaller portions. While it was tough to emulate their lifestyle entirely, I cherry-picked what worked best for me.
Keeping myself accountable was key. Tracking everything I ate honestly helped me establish realistic eating habits and tackle binge-eating tendencies.
A shift to an abundance mindset helped me fight food cravings and maintain a healthy relationship with food. I found that taking probiotics significantly reduced my junk food cravings.
Planning for occasional indulgences, like a buffet visit with healthier options, prevented feelings of deprivation. I shifted my focus from glorifying food to appreciating the nutritional value and enjoyment of my meals.
Exercising regularly made my new lifestyle non-negotiable. Weightlifting and strength training not only helped me gain muscle and increase my metabolism but also empowered me.
Constantly reminding myself of my improved health and happiness from these new habits prevented self-sabotage and kept me motivated. Identifying triggers and addressing underlying issues like gut health supported my progress.
Within months, I went from 145 to 105 pounds, predominantly shedding fat while eating foods I loved and maintaining my health. I attribute my success to romanticizing the weight loss journey and avoiding deprivation.
Mae Alice Suzuki is an inspiring YouTuber who guides her audience on healing, empowerment, and chasing dreams.
The author’s views and opinions are solely their own.