QUALITY OF YOUR LIFE. We hear about the “cost of shedding excess weight.” But how often do we consider the cost of not shedding those unwanted pounds? Compared to the billions of dollars it costs to treat diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, researchers have calculated the toll that overweight has taken on our overall quality of life.
What price would you pay for increase self-confidence, a better life, improved relationships at home or work? How much is your weight currently impacting your quality of Life. If you answer “yes” that your weight is currently impacting your quality of life. The good news is that even a small reductions in excess body weight will greatly benefits when it comes to improving your quality of life.
Try this on yourself:
Because of my weight….
1. “I feel physically uncomfortable.”
2. “I feel socially unacceptable.”
3. “I am self-conscious in social situations.”
4. “I am afraid of being rejected.”
5. “I am less productive than I could be at work.”
6. “I am afraid to go on job interviews.”
7. “I feel clumsy and awkward.”
8. “I avoid social activities that involve physical activity.”
9. “I feel unsure of myself.”
10. “I am very moody.”
11. “I have difficulty being assertive.”
12. “I don’t like myself.”
13. “I feel out of control.”
14. “I spend a lot of time worrying about my weight.”
15. “I do not feel sexually attractive.”
16. “I don’t want anyone to see me undressed.”
17. “I do not enjoy sexual activity.”
18. “I have difficulty finding clothes to fit me.”
19. “I avoid activities where wearing a bathing suit or shorts is expected.”
Now, review each tip above that target areas of your lifestyle and behavior that you’d most like to improve. Check each as: (1) Always True, (2) Sometimes True, and (3) Never True. Wait awhile and go back to this survey and answer these question again. Note how your responses have changed. Give yourself credit for those areas in which you’ve improved.
(Survey and questions taken in Association with Duke University Diet and Fitness Center, Joan Horbiak, R.D.,M.P.H.)
Tags: better health, body weight reduction, excess body weight, quality of life, self-confidence