IMMEDIATE GRATIFICATION VS. LONG-TERM RESULTS

We all want things; and we want them now. This is known as immediate gratification, or the desire to experience fulfilment or pleasure without delay. Although short-term indulgence can bring satisfaction, it can really have a negative impact on something you are trying to achieve in the long-term. For example, buying an expensive handbag when you are saving for a mortgage, or more germane, eating a large domino’s pizza during a weight loss diet. We are not saying you shouldn’t enjoy the things you like in life by any means, however it is important to weigh up the pros and cons of such decisions and how they affect long-term goals.

Keeping on track It is imperative to remember that the things we want most in life usually take the most time to achieve. Weight loss in particular is a marathon and not a sprint, it’s not a quick process and can take a while to reach your long-term goal, although it is always worth the wait. There will always be distractions and obstacles along the way, for example, you might often crave a chocolate bar or two. Overcoming these kind of obstacles and doing this consistently is key to staying on track. You need to set yourself reminders as to why you are on this journey, maybe change your mobile wallpaper to a picture of yourself at a weight that you are aiming to get back to, and every time you feel a wobble off track, just refer back to that motivation!

Healthy alternatives Finding healthy alternatives to the unhealthy meals and snacks that you crave the most will help you to make a lifestyle change that will help you to maintain your goals for the long term. This will also not only help you to overcome distractions and obstacles, but will make your journey a lot easier. We have a large range of healthy meal and snack recipes that can be used as alternatives. For example, you could try our Lemon & Poppy Seed Vegan Cookies instead of high sugar biscuits or cookies and our Cinnamon Protein Donuts rather than a cheeky Krispy Kreme.

Satisfaction The need for immediate satisfaction is one of the contributing factors to failure or poor results when following a weight loss plan. Sure, eating a whole tub of ice cream or a McDonalds’s big mac is a satisfying feeling, but the feeling of achieving your long-term goal is even more fulfilling. It is vital to keep this in mind whenever you feel like you may be tempted to fall off track.

Keep it enjoyable Although we are being quite harsh (only because we want you to achieve the best possible results), we still want you to keep your diet enjoyable. The odd treat from time to time is fine and will not harm your results. Research actually suggests that we are more likely to adhere to a long-term diet when we have a treat to look forward to on the weekend. This is why our Slender Plan is designed to give more flexibility and freedom at the weekend. That being said, it is important to remember your goals and that the long-term result is always better than short-term gratification.

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