Steve Siebold is author of the book Die Fat or Get Tough; 101 Differences in Thinking Between Fat People and Fit People, and a mental toughness coach whose goal is to equip other with the mental toughness to lose weight. He was a professional athlete that ended up being 40 pounds overweight. He got tough and lost the weight and says he is in the best shape of his life. Over his years of research he learned things that shocked him. Here is some of what he learned as far as the different between fit and fat people.
Overweight people eat for pleasure – fit people eat for health
I have found this to be true. For some eating is a very pleasurable experience, almost like recreation. Of course that will lead to excess weight.
Overweight people believe diets don’t work – fit people believe people don’t work
Diets don’t work because what is called for is a life change. People want an easy out. I know since I want one as well. Sadly, one does not exist.
Overweight People are waiting to be rescued from obesity – fit people know no one is coming to the rescue
I agree with this statement. I have heard the mindset of someone obese that screams they need help from an outside source. The problem is that an outside source can only take you so far. At some point it is all up to you.
Overweight people believe diets are fads – fit people believe diets are strategies
In many ways this is true. But there are fad diets and overall diets are bunk. The strategy mindset will help you develop a realistic diet that will allow you to stay healthy. For weight loss the strategy is burning more calories than you eat.
Overweight people eat emotionally – fit people eat strategically
Being on both sides of the fence…that is completely true.
Overweight people see exercise as a burden – fit people see exercise as a privilege
Again, being on both sides of the fence…that is completely true. I am surprised at my change of heart on exercise. For me it is burden because of the sharp contrast of what I could accomplish when I was in shape.
Overweight people make excuses for being fat – fit people know there is no excuse
True, true.