Forgive yourself if you slip, cheat, or make a mistake

We have cultivated bad eating habits for years.  If you are truly addicted to refined carbs or junk food, know that there are both psychological and physical aspects to the addiction.  It may take a few days to get all effects of the food out of your system.  Some programs refer to this as ketosis.

Try to avoid your addicting foods on a daily basis but don't give up if you slip.  I tend to go back over the 1st 3 steps of OA,  When I make a decision to turn my life and my will over to the care of God as I understand him, I begin to realize that I am not standing by myself trying to prove myself to God.  We should always be willing to ask God and our fellow support group members for help.

I told my wife this morning that intending to avoid addicting foods for Lent is a noble idea.  But, I might as well say that I plan to avoid those foods forever.  In truth, we only have today.  That is why most 12 step programs work one day at a time.  When does the day begin?  It starts as soon as you are free from the addictive food.  If you slip, cheat, or make an eating mistake, your new day starts as soon as you try to stop eating the addictive food. 

Do not say that "I've blown it today and will start back on my program."  I can say from many years of experience that that next day of clean eating may be months or even years away unless you resolve to stop having your addicting foods immediately.  Pray for help.  Post here or on another Forum.  This may be a time where the Main Forum would be helpful since someone is always responding to posts there.  You do not have to agree with any responses.  Just by posting your intent someplace, you are taking a step on the road to recovery.  And, recovery lasts a lifetime one day at a time.  sjbob

sjbob I totally agree with you when you say don't say "I've blown it today and will start back on my program."   I've learned from many years of telling myself I will diet "tomorrow"  that tomorrow never comes.   Finally I decided not to diet but live a healthy lifestyle from Dec. 9, 2009.   Now there is only today. TODAY I can manage to get through without sugar or simple carbs I do not want or need. TODAY I have been a success.  I have committed to 40 TODAYS with ya'll and I'm so happy to be here.  Thank you for supporting us with your helpful words.

Cheryl

I've learned over the year that when I screw up I have to put it aside immediately.� Like today and my no carbing.� Today should have been meatless, but I was unprepared so I winded up with breaded fishsticks and shrimp.� That does not mean I need to finish the package.� It was 'emergency' food. I have to get right back on track.�

Great post Bob- and your right- chances are- we may fail- but don't stop trying!!