I just had a 100 calorie package of Nutter Butters. There were only a few tiny cookies in the package, so, of course, I’m thinking about eating more. Not only does this remind me of why I don’t keep desserts, especially cookies, in our house, but it also reminds me of how easy it is to slip into “All or Nothing” thinking.
“All or Nothing” thinking is a cognitive distortion and an unhealthy way of thinking. Things are either black or white or good or bad. I choose “good” and eat no Nutter Butters, or I choose “bad” and may as well eat as many as I want. There is no middle ground or healthy balance. This cognitive distortion is very popular among people working towards behavioral change such as with eating a healthier diet, exercising more or abstaining from substances such as alcohol or cigarettes.
If I have more Nutter Butters, then I may think “I’ve blown it – I may as well eat them all..” If I miss going to the gym for a couple of days, then I may think “Nah… Why bother?” It makes me feel bad about myself and my doings (or not doings) and that’s not a healthy way to live or be.
The thought “What can I do to make this day better?” is a much healthier way to think when you eat too many Nutter Butters. Maybe that means eating lighter for dinner (ie: soup or salad), going for a short walk after dinner, or adding 10 extra minutes to your workout the next day. Finding balance and middle ground is what it’s all about. It’s the only way to stay consistent living a healthy lifestyle!
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