Does the scale control your mood and motivation?
For many people, stepping on a simple machine could ruin a perfectly good morning.
Let’s say you woke up, your stomach felt kind of flat, you knew you have been religiously following your eating and exercise plan and keeping track of what you ate in your food journal. You just couldn’t wait to put on that new skirt, you were feeling very svelte. Then, before hopping into the shower, you decided to step onto the bathroom scale to see your reward for all your hard work and…you gained a pound?! How could that be? The sun shining outside your window felt more like storm clouds and rain. Your heart sinks then turns to anger in a split second and there goes your motivation. You even mutter “why bother”
Does this scenario sound familiar?
This may sound a little far-fetched, but for those who weigh themselves everyday (and for some — several times a day), this is a very real depiction of how an inanimate object could play such a powerful role in feelings on a daily basis.
It is not uncommon for long term waist watchers to develop an UN-healthy relationship with their scale. The number on the scale becomes more then a measurement of weight it becomes a measurement of self worth, and is closely linked to feelings of depression and low self esteem. This daily ritual can become a negative force (or positive depending how the numbers end up for that day)
According to the National Weight Control Registry, an organization of over 10,000 members who have lost weight and kept it off, 75 percent of registrants reported that they weigh themselves at least once a week, and it is this consistency that contributes to their success. For these waist watchers, and in similar studies, it has been shown that a weekly weight check helps keep dieters on track, and in these cases, the scale could be a useful tool.
When you have a long journey to your weight loss goal it is important that you develop a healthy relationship with your scale. Up or down it is about being consistent and staying the course. You body has its own timing. Daily weight changes are a natural part of the function of your body. It is neither good or bad. It is what it is. You just need to stay on track and keep track of what you are doing and make adjustments along the way to see consistent (not daily) results.
The scale is only one measure of success; decreasing numbers need to be coupled with a reduction in portion sizes, a balanced varied diet, physical activity and an overall sense of empowerment and well-being.
Do a self assessment
How would you rate your relationship with the scale?
Has a number on the scale ever caused you to lose your motivation?
Or changed your course of action for the day?
If you are weighing daily, do you find this is a help or a hindrance to your weight management?
See also: My Scale is a liar and Build Success by Appreciating your Progress
Source: Everyday health Bonnie Taub-Dix MA, RDN, CDN
