I am 24 and I am struggling on this journey..

I have found that I really enjoy coming up with healthy alternatives to my favorite foods. Pasta, for example, has been replaced by spaghetti squash. I simply roast a spaghetti squash, peel out the flesh into "noodles," and then top it with my favorite pasta sauce. I satisfy that Italian food craving for a fraction of the calories.

Instead of thinking as these little substitutions as "diet foods," think of them as a fun way to try something new or discover a new dish that you will crave. I actually crave this dish now!

And as for chocolate, I'm sorry, but there's just no substitution for me! I allow myself a very small square of high-quality dark chocolate and I savor it! I make sure to eat it slowly and really get that chocolate taste. When you take time to notice the texture and the flavor, you can satisfy that chocolate craving with just a tiny nibble!

But sometimes, during "that time of the month" when I need A LOT of chocolate, I make myself a low-cal hot chocolate by blending 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk, 2 Tbsp. cocoa powder, 2 packets stevia powder, and a dash of vanilla extract. It comes out to about 60 calories for a good-sized mug of cocoa and the antioxidants in the cocoa powder are super good for you!

Keep it up. You have to want it more than anything else. And remind yourself how proud you'll feel every time you turn down that piece of cake or extra helping of dinner. It feels good to be mentally strong! Before you know it, you'll be physically strong and confident in your own skin!

On a more psychological note: Figure out what you really love to do--physically--and start doing more of it...For example, today I didn't eat all that well, but I mowed the lawn for over an hour (big yard) so I burned a lot of calories. If you find some fun activities, it will help you with everything else. Make some time for yourself within your (undoubtedly) busy life and it will help!