Discussion Board

Part of an interesting article in todays Guardian Newspaper on WW, gyms, weight and a couple of adult things. Well worth reading the whole article.

"We humans have a deeply conservative instinct that we should know our place: paupers should stay in hovels and kings on thrones. Gyms should be full of fit people exercising, diners full of fat ones eating. Everyone just being and no one trying. It's the trying, the aspiration, that people find threatening – trying to get a better job, move somewhere nicer, lose weight. And that's why those who are doing it feel vulnerable.

Can Weight Watchers outlets thrive on the high street? I hope so, but I doubt it. More than they're ashamed of over-eating or buying pornography or missing a train, people are ashamed of wanting to change themselves. They fear they can't and that others will resent the attempt. That's why fat people exercise by night."

http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree ... htwatchers

In regard to shame, I figured this out a few years ago and like to challenge people with it:

Most people want to be part of the 10% in regard to their health, success, happiness etc. but...they want to do what the 90% are doing. If you are unwilling to march to the beat of a different drummer, I am sorry to tell you that you will likely be much fatter and sicker than necessary.

In regard to resistance to changed, I like this quote: "Many would rather fail than change and succeed."

I am grateful for this community of those who are willing to follow the unpopular but very helpful guidance provided by Dr. McDougall, Jeff Novick, RD and others here.

Isn't it great to be part of the 10%...or at least on the way to becoming part of the 10%?

That article seems a bit harsh, although they may be right. Ashamed of wanting to change? Lots of people want to change, it's the failure or the past failures they're ashamed of. Tons of people jump on the latest diet bandwagon, Atkins, Paleo, whatever it is - no shame there. Then it doesn't work and we slink off to the next quick fix or indulgent plan.

Still, there's that old caution of people sabotaging your diet - encouraging you to eat just one slice of roast, or try their special cake.

Pinkrose makes a very strong point about the importance and value of community in supporting change, especially this community which is so helpful to everyone. It is harder to change all by yourself. Not only the advice but the example of others is incredibly supportive.