My Enemy the Scale

I used to think getting on the scale was like going to the dentist – something I would put off until there was no other option. I didn’t want to visually confirm what my clothing was already telling me – I was gaining weight, seemingly overnight! It was depressing so I indulged in all the feel-good food that I shouldn’t be eating. I knew things were getting out of hand but I stubbornly refused to step on that device which seemed to be designed to measure my failure pound by unflattering pound. Passing the mirror I wondered who that chubby person was looking back at me.

This time, however, I have a new attitude. I look at the scale as my friend and guide, gently letting me know when to cut back or reminding me how good I’ve been. I will use it often. But how often is the question - every day, every couple of days, once a week?

Unfortunately there is no clear cut answer as to which is the best strategy. It is totally a personal choice. On one hand a daily weigh-in helps insure you keep yourself on track. If you overindulged you would see the bad news right away and do something about it rather than put it off until the damage is overwhelming. On the other hand I’m already obsessed with food, I don’t need another obsession.

I chose to weigh myself once a week. I’d rather wait than keep an eagle eye on my poundage. The National Weight Control Registry found that most people maintaining their weight weigh themselves more than once a week and nearly 4 out of 10 people weigh themselves daily. I never have been know to follow the crowd.

What about you? How often do you weigh yourself?