How dieting is like a traffic jam

My scale must be broken. I'm only 3 pounds from a goal I set for myself, but no matter what I do, I can't get my scale to budge. I've tried eating less. I've tried eating more. I've added in more strength training and made my daily walks longer. I'm stuck...and frustrated. I know the scale will move again and that my hard work will pay off, but losing weight is frustrating when you're working hard and not making any (observable) progress toward your goal.

That's why I love this article from Sparkpeople that compares dieting to a traffic jam. If you've ever spent time stuck in traffic, you might be able to see how the two compare. Here's a condensed list of diet "driving" tips to help you on your weight loss journey:

• Quit focusing on your destination and enjoy the ride.
• Pick up a passenger (or weight-loss buddy) for company.
• Follow your map and stay the course, even when progress seems slow.
• Expect stops and starts. They're a normal part of the journey.
• Go with the flow. Don't change lanes, slam on your brakes, or get frustrated.
• Never take shortcuts.
• Don't go too fast, or you could hurt yourself.

I feel a little better after reading that article, but I'll feel a whole lot better when my scale starts "working" again!