Very often diets just simply don’t work. You start with the best intentions hoping to finally achieve your perfect weight. You have failed before but you know this time it will be a success. Yet, something happens and you either can’t shift any kilos or, if you are successful, very quickly put the weight back on again.

What happens? It is possible that the reasons of your excessive weight are psychological and that you are unconsciously sabotaging yourself. If that is the case, a simple exploration of your past might help you get rid of these internal barriers. Ask yourself these 10 questions and try to answer them as honestly as you can. The better understanding of the roots of your behavior will help you achieve clarity, set clear goals and succeed at last!

 

  1. How long ago have you decided that your weight was a problem?

Often our relationship with food changes as a reaction to an important life event. Understanding an emotional need behind your hunger will help you deal with the consequences.

  1. Could you describe a typical mealtime in your family of origin?

Was the whole family eating together or people took their meals separately? Did you look forward to a family meal or was it to be endured?

  1. Were you made to eat everything that was on your plate, even if you did not like the food? It is possible that you still keep doing that out of habit.
  2. Were there any sayings about food that were popular in your family?
  3. What was the attitude to fat/thin people in your family of origin?
  4. Was it assumed that you look like someone in your family? (parent, uncle etc.) Very often children are given certain “roles” within the family that might be completely unrelated to the child’s real character and even looks.
  5. Was it a custom in your family to express love and care with food – nice meals, sweets and special treats?
  6. Was anyone in your family struggling with weight issues? How were these problems talked about?
  7. In your culture of origin, were large people considered healthier than thin people? In some cultures thinness is associated with illness, so you might be unconsciously putting on weight as a “health protection”.
  8. If you tried to lose weight as a young person, was your family helpful and understanding or unsupportive?