I’m a very goal-oriented person, used to setting clear objectives. So the first thing I do is write down my goal. For example: “I want to weigh 117 pounds!” (but the goal has to be realistic; I know that I look my best at this weight, so I strive to maintain it). Then, I create rules or pathways to achieve that goal.
Rule #1. Don’t follow any diets!!! The best diet is simply to eat a little less! My body doesn’t handle long breaks between meals well: I eat often and in small portions, or if I’m not eating, I drink water or tea.
Rule #2. Exercise every day.
Rule #3. Once every 1-2 weeks, I have a detox day (I only drink still mineral water or kefir) or once every 2-3 weeks, I do a mono-diet for 3 days (only rice, or only buckwheat, or only apples, etc.). This is very important and beneficial for the body overall.
Rule #4. I write my goal in a goal notebook and then forget about it.
I believe this is the most important of all the rules: everything should be done easily and with joy. Once it becomes a strict rule, there will always be temptation to break it, and setbacks will be inevitable. Then, out of frustration, you might even end up “eating your feelings.” For me, there are no hard and fast rules—these are just recommendations I give to myself. You simply need to choose a lifestyle that brings you joy, makes you happy, doesn’t require superhuman effort, and harmonizes with your circumstances. In short, you need to lead a healthy lifestyle and make it a personal recommendation! 🙂