So this past week I have been on a cleanse diet just to prove to myself I can stay committed to something. I am super lacking in self-control, especially when it comes to food, and will chase after cravings no matter how unhealthy they might be. So I decided to go on a week long cleanse diet, not only to get my body a little healthier, but mostly to prove to myself I could stick to it, just by will power and making up my mind.
So here is what I learned:
1. I really LOVE hamburgers. They are God's gift to man.
Diets should not be a thing if they take such wonderful things out of your life. Also, I really missed Whataburger. Living in Texas, I was bound to drive by at least 5 on my way to anywhere... and the fries!!! Let's just say its been a long week.
2. I have a problem saying no
This was the hardest part: my friends want to go get ice cream... "I can't." I learned that this is probably an issue in a lot of areas of my life. If I want something I go for it, sometimes without thinking whats good for me first. Making up my mind to say no, was really hard, but I have learned from this challenge for sure.
3. It's so important to have accountability in life in general
I cannot stay committed. I would not have stuck to this diet if it had not been for my best friend constantly going "You have made it this far. Why would you quit? It would all be for nothing!" Also, I distinctly remember her yelling at me, "NO! GO EAT A BANANA!!!" when I was complaining of wanting sweets and carbs. Its really easy for me to bail on rules especially when I set them for myself. Its super important to have friends in your life who have your back, especially to keep you from doing dumb things like bailing on your diet.
4. Self-control is hard!
This diet was a real challenge for me to stick to, especially when my roommate and I have goldfish sitting within arms reach all the time. I would have to remind myself I had to just glance and move on. Not reaching for something so good and so easily attainable.... Well this is what I wanted to build in myself, and this diet truly gave me a lesson in self-control.
5. It was totally worth it!
I feel so great!! As the week got on it got a little easier, because the closer to the end I got, I realized I couldn't back out anymore. I was proud of myself for lasting so long, and I learned life lessons along the way. It was a challenge that I can say I have completed!
At the end of it all I can say, I am definitely planning on allowing Whataburger too be part of my weekly meal plan again... But I'm inspired to do better and live healthier, remembering that self-control doesn't come naturally, it's okay to say no, and to never take good friends for granted!!