Here is a definition of the word, CONTROL when used as a noun: “the power to influence or direct people’s behavior or the course of events.”
First, let’s provide some examples of things/situations that are NOT under our control:
- The weather
- Housing market crashes
- Stock market fluctuations
- How our favorite sports teams perform
Now, here are some examples of things/situations that are under our control:
The clothes we choose to wear that day (unless you are required to wear a uniform)
The route we take to get to work
What soap or shampoo we use in the shower
The nighttime show(s) we will watch on our favorite cable stations/streaming services
What category of “control” does our weight loss efforts fall into? On the surface, it would seem that it should most definitely be in the category of “ARE under our control”, as when you think about it, what enters our mouths on a daily basis are placed there by us…we are not being force-fed by anyone. However, clearly, this is not even close to being this simple a concept.
We have countless patients that tell me that their weight is the ONLY thing in life (other than the weather and those other issues in the “NOT under our control category) they cannot control. They control their finances, businesses they own, their children’s activities and pretty much everything else in their lives is under control…except for their weight.
How can this possibly be, as once again, what types of foods/drinks that are placed in our mouths are 1000% voluntary and self-administered?
I will write more about this tomorrow, but in the meantime, please start thinking about the “control factor” in your life as this relates to dietary choices.