Don't trust your memory

How many times have you hit a plateau, gotten frustrated and when you can't figure it out you finally just give up and ruin the great gains you just made?  Too many times to count right?  Why is that?  Because, for most of us our memory is not that good.  I have a recommended solution. 

Journal it!  If you are serious about becoming a healthy, powerful, fit and unique individual then keep a journal...do not trust your memory.  Now I must admit, I don't always do a good job of this...and throughout the last 21 weeks of my contest prep I am sure "O" has wanted to karate chop me because I was not as diligent.  Do not misunderstand me...I started with the food journal, jotting everything down...until I got to the point where I was eating a majority of the same meals on such a regular basis that I knew where I stood.  When I would make changes I would revisit the journaling to see where I stood.  Now mind you, I did the journaling prior to actually eating the food (a small piece of advice).  Heck, even the Mrs. who is absolutely stunning uses a journal when she hits a sticking point. 

If you aren't convinced about trying out a food journal (if you're not sure, don't go buy a fancy journal...just use a notebook you have laying around the house, or if you use your computer alot make an excel template), then maybe the points below will help.

• A journal lets you monitor your caloric intake.  Losing weight in the very basic form is calories in vs. calories out. 
• Writing the food down encourages you to see your food choices on paper.  This helps us to maintain our focus.
• It could help you control the urge to binge...because if you eat it you better write it down and who in the hell wants to write down that they just ate a whole bag of potato chips? 
• It allows you to track your progress and if you hit a sticking point it allows you to make slight adjustments that much easier.
• It reinforces your commitment to yourself to maintain a fit and healthy lifestyle.