Holiday Parties Tough When Trying to Losing Weight

I was watching a re-run of a Ruby episode the other night, and Ruby said something I think most people struggling to lose weight have felt at one time or another. She said: "I feel like I'm being punished."

If you're trying to lose weight and all the thin people around you are indulging at restaurants or at holiday parties, it certainly can feel unfair. And that feeling of injustice can add another layer to the body image issues that often accompany obesity. In addition, holiday parties can leave many overweight people feeling self-conscious -- worried about what they're going to wear and feeling judged for every bite they take.

I've dealt with weight issues, and I've had those feelings. I've wondered if the person at the check-out counter is thinking, "Wow. She really doesn't need that candy bar." To succeed at weight loss, it's important to accept who you are and know that, while losing weight, things aren't always going to be fair. In addition, we're often harder on ourselves than others are. Rather than wondering about my buying a candy bar, most cashiers are probably just thinking about the end of their shifts.

If you're facing holiday get-togethers while trying to lose weight, check out these tips for sticking to your plan and enjoying the party without guilt or worry.