The 80/20 Method

If you've ever started a diet and found yourself "falling off the wagon" after just a couple weeks, one of the biggest reasons is that conventional thinking, especially with fad diets, is that you have to be perfect all the time. 

That way of thinking just isn't realistic, and often leads to failure. In reality, we aren't perfect. Vacations, holidays, social plans, and just life in general can be an obstacle to eating healthier. However, the 80/20 method plans for this.

This method helps both psychologically and physiologically. 

Mentally, it gives you room to enjoy yourself. By accepting that you won't be perfect, and aiming instead for the goal of 80% healthy, 20% other, you give yourself room to take life's challenges in stride. That way when you have a big trip coming up, you're thinking about which SPF of sunscreen to use and not worrying about making sure you have a perfect diet.

Physiologically, your body is most likely used to the sugar and flavors of unhealthy foods. Going completely cold turkey acts in some ways similar to cutting off smoking or drinking. Your body will crave those types of foods and may make you feel deprived without them. Slowly decreasing the amounts of those foods in your diet will give your body time to adjust and before long you'll be craving an apple instead of a cupcake.

Lastly, it's important to cut yourself some slack. Just by trying to live cleaner, you're taking a big step! It's OKAY to have a cookie or slice of pizza here or there. What matters is you're not having that slice of pizza every day. Appreciate even the smallest wins, and just aim to be better than the day/week/month before. Progress may seem slow, but you'll be surprised at how quickly you create healthy habits!