Intentions - what goes wrong?

Our intentions were initially well-meaning. Life surprised us and in a few hours we did the opposite of what we promised.

Yes, I’m referring to our everyday pledge for a change. Make a daily commitment to adhere to your prescribed diet.

The scent of uncertainty lingers in the air when, in a twist, life takes unexpected turns. What you set out to do isn’t what happens.

It’s worth asking - why? Why exactly do my mind and body refuse to obey my command?

Scientists have asked the same question. They then sought to find the answer.

The good news? It wasn’t your intention.

But there were plenty of other reasons. Social cues tracked as the most significant reason for your desires to go astray. Think of friends and family asking you to eat. “Just this once,” they may say.

Cravings came second. Your body is indicating to you that whatever you ate wasn’t enough. You needed seconds.

Stress came in third. I have spoken before of the production of cortisol when stressed, which feeds on sugar creating cravings.

Availability came next. You passed something that looked like food. Your body cued you up to indulge. Before you knew it, you had emptied out the refrigerator.

So what can you do?

Understanding your triggers is a great start. Learning the time of day when you get triggered is a valuable insight. If you are extremely troubled, maintain a journal. You will find a pattern.

Once you find your pattern, it will be easier for you to address your issues.

To illustrate, my triggers occur in the evening. It is always for salt. My ability to give in or not is very binary. If I am in the flow and disciplined, I won’t give in.

If I am relaxed about what I am doing and self-indulgent, I will eat the store.

What does your day look like?

Reach out to me on twitter @rbawri Instagram @riteshbawriofficial and YouTube at www.youtube.com/breatheagain