The Power of “Don’t”

There is power in the word "don't".

When I "don't" do something, I am in control.

There is no rule that is forcing me, no obligation that I am under, nobody else telling me what to do.

Let's say you want to drop a few pounds and lean up, so you adopt a different eating strategy, for instance participate in "Sizzlin' Summer Slimdown".

Don't say you "can't" eat something on S3, because that is simply not true.

You CAN do whatever you want.

Think about it - the rules of fat loss did not change because you chose to get serious about it, they just came into clearer focus and become more important in the "now" to you. 

Most of us don't like "rules", (especially those of fat loss) but some of us sure need them - I am first in that line!

Here's an example; You decide that from this point on you are only going to eat 3 meals a day, with no snacking. That is your new "rule".

What do you say when you are offered popcorn during the movie you are watching?

What do you tell your own self when you want that last piece of pie in the fridge?

"I can't because I am on this stupid diet" makes you a victim, and we all like to play the victim.

"No thanks, I don't eat more than 3 meals because I am learning to control my hunger" demonstrates an exercise of free will that is a emotionally and psychologically very powerful. Jedi mind tricks if you will. YOU are in control because you made a decision, not because some diet guru made it for you.

And can we talk about that word "Decide"?

We use that word very flippantly.

The root is "cid" or "cis".

Homicide. Suicide. Scissors. Decide.

All the same root - "cid" or "cis" - "to cut or to kill".

What to wear to the gym or whether to drink Dunkins or Starbucks is making a choice, not deciding.

"Deciding" something means you cut off or kill all other options.

Did you really "Decide" to participate in Sizzlin' Summer Slimdown, or is it something you are merely choosing to do until the going gets tough?

If you truly made a decision than anything that is not part of S3 is off the table for you.

Do you understand the power of that?

There is no choice to be made anymore, and that is liberating, not restrictive.

You "don't" do it because YOU decided not to, and YOU matter.

Don't ever forget it.

Coach Dean