The Battle of the Office Snacks

So, as I'm waiting for my lunch to heat up in the microwave, I stood and ate my Brussels sprouts while I stared at the raspberry crumb and the ginger chocolate chip bars; also knowing that there was a container full of fudge in the refrigerator.

I think I've already proved that I have no will power.  So, how have I been successful on this road to health?  I try to remove all temptation and avoid my triggers.

I've learned that I cannot keep chocolate chips in my house.  I even fooled myself into thinking that I can finally practice the rule of "everything in moderation".  I can't.  I admit it.  I no longer have my favorite peanut butter in my pantry because I know, just because I don't have the chocolate chips, it doesn't mean I won't go to town on that jar with just a spoon.  Maybe someday I can partake in the wonder of White Chocolate Wonderful, but that is just not the case right now.  I don't trust myself with it.  And it's not only peanut butter and chocolate, it's any kind of sweet.  If I'm being honest, it's not only the sweet stuff either.  Hummus chips (with sea salt!).  I can't buy those anymore because I snack incessantly while I'm cooking dinner and then, before I know it, dang it all the bag is gone.  Oops, I Did it Again.

This is exactly how I quit smoking (April 9th will be 8 months, folks.  Can I get a "woot woot").  I just stopped.  I refused to be around people who smoke and I had to stop drinking any kind of alcohol for a time.  These were triggers.  I couldn't even SEE a pack.  It helps that the restaurants/bars in North Carolina are smoke free, but even now, it's still hard when I'm with people who are smokers.  I don't want to deny them, but it's hard when you're the only one left sitting when everyone else goes outside for a puff or two, doing what you "want" to do, but know you "can't" or you'll never be able to stop again.

So how do I deal with the onslaught of yummy office snacks and all other temptations?  I fall off the wagon sometimes.  No doubt about that.

But then I remember.

I want to be around for a while.  I'm not ready to be done with this life.  I believe, and hope, there is still something I'm meant to do with it.  Something good.

I want to be healthy and I want to be happy.

I want to run.

Far.

So, a little advice.  If you find yourself in a situation when you're having a staring contest with temptation, just ......remember.

And don't try the Brussels sprouts route.  It doesn't work.