Ideas for changing bad (unhealthy) behavior

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zootiesgroove
zootiesgroove Posts: 26
in Motivation and Support
Coming up is a 3-day weekend. I'm a single 40-something so normally, I would spend the entire weekend drinking and eating.. maybe touring breweries/wineries, going out with friends... everything revolving around food and drink. General debauchery.

I'm trying to have something new to replace these behaviors. I dont have any active friends and I'm afraid if left to my own devices, I'll just sit around the house watching TV until I get so bored I fall back into bad habits.

I'm looking for something that can occupy my time over the next 3 days so I can stay on track with my diet.

Ive thought about going for a hike/photographing nature, but it's going to be below freezing so I may not last that long doing that. i also thought about going bowling or the driving range, but that will be good for only a couple hours. I'm trying not to spend a lot of money either.

Any suggestions?

Replies

  • curlytoes79
    curlytoes79 Posts: 95 Member
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    Where do you live? You might want to check your state's tourism board website and see if there is a calendar of events. There may be some indoor activities going on. I do this a lot - I live in the DC metro area - and it's always fun to check out the museums and cultural events.
  • tapirfrog
    tapirfrog Posts: 616 Member
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    It's really smart of you to think about this early. I am taking notes on how to be, you know, not surprised by my own bad habits.

    Is there a way you can hang out with friends for part of the time and limit the food? Like, arrange your calories and exercise so you can go wine-tasting or order the sampler mat at the local brewery, but then go home instead of to the local sports bar for wings?

    And be sure you have something non-food waiting for you at home that you are *really* looking forward to. Like, uh, a newly-released porn DVD (I'm just spitballing here, and I'm trying not to use words like "release" or "balling" but nothing is coming out right. Coming. Oops.). Or a comedian whose work you completely love -- for me, early Eddie Izzard or any Paula Poundstone, but obviously you and I are not the same. The point is that if you have a reward waiting for you at home that you'd look forward to, food or no food, it will be easier to leave the food-centered activities on time.

    Got no suggestions for *not* eating high-cal snacks while you watch; I know for a lot of people watching goes with eating.
  • zootiesgroove
    zootiesgroove Posts: 26
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    Where do you live? You might want to check your state's tourism board website and see if there is a calendar of events. There may be some indoor activities going on. I do this a lot - I live in the DC metro area - and it's always fun to check out the museums and cultural events.
    I'm also in the DMV area, but its MLK weekend, so I'm staying away from the city. Not really a people person....
  • zootiesgroove
    zootiesgroove Posts: 26
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    Is there a way you can hang out with friends for part of the time and limit the food? Like, arrange your calories and exercise so you can go wine-tasting or order the sampler mat at the local brewery, but then go home instead of to the local sports bar for wings?

    Yeah, that's really not an option. I'm looking to avoid alcohol for at least 30 days and I'm only 5 days in. Plus if I go somewhere that serves good food or drink (especially if my friends are eating and drinking), I would be like a hungry newborn at a topless bar.
  • sargessexyone
    sargessexyone Posts: 494 Member
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    Is there some sort of hobby you might be interested in? It's good especially if it's something that keeps your hands busy. Not that you wanna crochet but I recently took that up and it's been a great help in keeping me from late night snacking. Maybe, as corny as it sounds, build a model car. Or something like that.
  • zootiesgroove
    zootiesgroove Posts: 26
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    Is there some sort of hobby you might be interested in? It's good especially if it's something that keeps your hands busy. Not that you wanna crochet but I recently took that up and it's been a great help in keeping me from late night snacking. Maybe, as corny as it sounds, build a model car. Or something like that.
    I picked up learning guitar - that helps because it keeps my hands and mind busy and before I know it, its several hours later...
  • AyeCorona
    AyeCorona Posts: 204 Member
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    As far as keeping yourself entertained and busy, I'd suggest scheduling some workout time, trying out new recipes (or find a cooking class), volunteering at an animal shelter, do something touristy, rent a series on netlix (I like boardwalk empire, dexter, true blood). Good luck :)
  • mary190136
    mary190136 Posts: 44 Member
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    I have no suggestions. But if it's any consolation, this description of yours is exactly what I'm looking for in a man to date.

    "Coming up is a 3-day weekend. I'm a single 40-something so normally, I would spend the entire weekend drinking and eating.. maybe touring breweries/wineries, going out with friends... everything revolving around food and drink. General debauchery."
  • pps7
    pps7 Posts: 46
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    Watch the NFL playoffs!

    Allow yourself one meal where you go out with your friends and enjoy food and drink. Just don't so it constantly for 3 days.
  • missbp
    missbp Posts: 601 Member
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    Do you belong to a gym? If so, start the weekend mornings there. Take your time with your workout. I find if I get a good workout in, in the morning, I am more inclined to not blow it by eating crap.

    Also, maybe try finding some friends that live healthier lifestyles.

    I'm not sure where you are, but I am in NY and hiking in the cold is actually pretty enjoyable. The key is to wear the right gear.

    Lastly, maybe check out a Krav Maga class or another type of martial arts. I am actually considering this.

    Good luck!
    M
  • krist3ng
    krist3ng Posts: 259 Member
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    * Cleaning your house/apartment would be practical and active, though not much fun
    * Hit up the gym/go for a run outdoors (after about five minutes you won't feel the cold anymore)
    * Try to master a new song on guitar
    * If you're veging out in front of the TV, practice guitar scales, that way you won't be snacking (hehehe)
    * Hang out with friends in non-food-oriented context, or invite friends over for dinner (healthy dinner)
    * Volunteer
    * Take a nice nap

    Edited to add:

    *If you don't have a gym membership/don't feel like going out, try out some body weight exercises in your home:
    http://greatist.com/fitness/50-bodyweight-exercises-you-can-do-anywhere
  • zootiesgroove
    zootiesgroove Posts: 26
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    I have no suggestions. But if it's any consolation, this description of yours is exactly what I'm looking for in a man to date.

    "Coming up is a 3-day weekend. I'm a single 40-something so normally, I would spend the entire weekend drinking and eating.. maybe touring breweries/wineries, going out with friends... everything revolving around food and drink. General debauchery."
    Hahaha! just my luck :p
  • tapirfrog
    tapirfrog Posts: 616 Member
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    A newborn at a topless bar! I must use that comparison somewhere; I just hope I have the control not to do it on company email.

    ... and wow, if you're also staying off alcohol for 30 days and you're 5 days in, can you please sell me some of your self-control? That is really impressive.
  • zootiesgroove
    zootiesgroove Posts: 26
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    A newborn at a topless bar! I must use that comparison somewhere; I just hope I have the control not to do it on company email.

    ... and wow, if you're also staying off alcohol for 30 days and you're 5 days in, can you please sell me some of your self-control? That is really impressive.
    Boss won't find that amusing? Haha
    Its a bit easier to avoid the hooch during the week. 3 days off and a brewery trip with the guys planned tomorrow? That's a different story.. I think there will at least be a couple tasters in my future.
  • lizziebeth1028
    lizziebeth1028 Posts: 3,602 Member
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    Weekends are always a big challenge! I usually make sure I get a few really good calorie burning workouts for damage control. But basically it boils down to good old fashion willpower. Gone are the days of 4 5 6 7 8 however many cocktails and then a 2am trip to the all night diner for a huge omlette and hash browns after the bars close. Excess just doesn't have a place if you are trying to lose weight or maintain. Ultimately you're going to have to cut down on the drinking when you're out and stick to lower calorie beverages. Moderation and willpower!
  • zootiesgroove
    zootiesgroove Posts: 26
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    *If you don't have a gym membership/don't feel like going out, try out some body weight exercises in your home:
    http://greatist.com/fitness/50-bodyweight-exercises-you-can-do-anywhere
    This is awesome :) thanks
  • TXEXrunner
    TXEXrunner Posts: 178 Member
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    +1 on the gym activities, even if it is for part of one day. It's something to get you out. Also consider taking the car out and getting it washed - in another town; burn time on the road if gas isn't too much. Thought bowling would be good too, although not sure how much that costs these days. Any indoor pools that you can get to (back to the gym suggestions)? Catch a matinee' (and the cost of snacks will kill any temptation you may have for them)! Also think about volunteering your time or giving blood. Sounds like there are a lot of good ideas from others - a mix of these should easily fill up three days. Not sure where DMV is, but possibly a friend connection like one of your posts offered would be a good change of pace too!! Good luck - post your results and let us know how it goes!

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