What's wrong with the "I'm ugly and awful until I lose weight" approach to weight management? It may, in some cases motivate a person to lose weight, but the approach has pitfalls - it's inaccurate! What you weigh has nothing to do with your character. This isn't to say you shouldn't embark on a weight management program.

 Studies show that losing even 10 percent of your weight can result in significant improvements in your health. People who like themselves, however, are much more likely to want to take good care of themselves. Because they respect and value who they are, they are motivated to take care of their bodies.  Here are some helpful suggestions for participating in a positive weight management program.

(1) Tell yourself that you are a person of value even if you never lose another pound; (2) don't put your life on hold until you lose weight – if you do, you're left with little else to do but think about what you'll be eating for your next meal and you increase your preoccupation with food; (3) don't assume that you can't look good until you lose weight - you are so much more than just your weight. If a few weeks go by and you haven't lost a pound, focus instead on the numbers that really matter - like blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, etc.

Barbara Linchey, Certified Health Advisor with Take Shape for Life, holds unique group meetings in Walnut Creek on Tuesday nights dealing with the mind, thoughts, consciousness, habits and attitudes, and how these elements affect weight management. Call (925) 932-1332 for more information or e-mail her at barbara_linchey@yahoo.com

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