Do You Use the 80/20 Rule?

by Valorie Delp | More from this Blogger

01 Aug 2007 04:17 AM

Maybe for someone with a will of iron steel, this type of indulgence is not necessary. But for us mere mortals who are tempted by cheesecakes, nachos and the occasional soda, the 80/20 rule can be a lifesaver for our motivation! The 80/20 rule is basically as it sounds. . .that you eat healthy 80% of the time and indulge yourself a little 20% of the time. If you struggle with binging, this is something for you! (And by the way, if you're following the Mission Possible series in my blog or in the forums, this is my 'dieting' rule.)

It basically works, exactly like it sounds. You eat healthy foods for 80% of the time and you allow yourself small indulgences 20% of the time. In reality this makes a lot of sense and although it's not a strict 'dieting rule' who wants to stick to a rigid diet 24/7? I know personally, I do better sticking to anything when I know that I will get some type of 'reward' for it.

Pre-planned Indulgence

The best way to use the 80/20 rule is to plan your indulgences in advance. It is important to do this for two reasons. First of all, you're much more likely to eat a 'reasonably' sized indulgences if you have planned it in advance. Secondly, planning helps you say 'no' to sweets and junk that crop up during your day. If you want that unexpected junk food then you have to give up what you've planned. Also, you are more likely to pass up something worse for you if you know that eating that extra apple will 'buy' you that treat later.

For some people, this is an excellent way to stay motivated. Weight loss is a long and sometimes arduous endurance race. Winning small 'trophies' on the way can really help people avoid the binging/fall off the wagon cycle.

Learn more about Valorie Delp

Hello everybody! My name is Valorie and I am one busy lady! When I'm not writing or editing for families, I am busy trying to get my brood of 5 in line.

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