I haven't had bread in three weeks and I'm miserable. Every time I drive past What-A-Burger, I fight back tears. If you're a native Texan, you may be asking yourself why I am subjecting myself to this kind of torture.
Well, I'm on a diet like every other miserable person in America. If a group of researchers were to take a survey of why most people are unhappy right now, I'm willing to wager that most of them would credit their unhappiness to starting a diet.
Whether it be doctor's orders or trying to drop a couple of pants sizes for the summer time, people have their own reasons for changing their eating habits. Recently, I have decided to start dieting for three main reasons.
1. I spend a ridiculous amount of money on fast food during the week.
When I first decided to change my eating habits, I looked at my bank account to see exactly how much I was spending on fast food. When I saw how much I had been spending, I was beyond shocked and disappointed in myself.
Between classes, a part-time job and being the head of an on-campus organization, I have to fight to find time to cook my dinner for the week. It was easier for me to just go and get something. I didn't realize how much I was draining my account until I got the wonderful e-mail from my bank, letting me know that my account is overdrawn.
Although I haven't eaten McDonald's in a year, I'm still whipping and dipping through What-A-Burger: A true Texan's burger joint. A What-A-Burger with cheese, no onions and those fresh, hot fries hit the spot every single time. Put me on the long list of Texans who might need rehab or an intervention because it's quite possible I have an addiction to that place.
2. I can't fit my favorite pair of jeans anymore.
Like Regina George, sweatpants (and spandex capris) are all that fits me right now. It's heartbreaking, but even more motivation for me to get my eating habits under control. Honestly. Truly.
3. I want to commit to making a lifestyle change, not just a temporary change.
Baby steps and moderation are two words I have been hearing and seeing, since I have started my research on healthy eating. It takes time, patience and dedication to really get poor eating habits under control. Eating healthy is definitely a lifestyle change that is on my long list of things to do.
Hopefully, you can cross it off yours, too.