Taming the Inner She-Jerk

INNER SHE-JERK SMASH!

One of my biggest challenges is the mental part of getting healthier.  I can go for days on a positive swing but the day I have the slightest misstep, I turn into a raging jerk who really loves to stomp all over myself. I hold myself to higher standards than I would an employee and I know my own weaknesses, so I'm pretty damn effective at being mean. 

In an effort to make my weight loss maintainable from a mental health standpoint, I modified an idea I saw on Pinterest.  I've been writing the things I have to be proud of (decisions, accomplishments, etc) on little pieces of paper and dropping them into a vase. When I start going into self-hate mode about my "failures," I can present myself with evidence to the contrary. 

I had initially intended to fill the vase with fun and positive memories from the year since I have a terrible time recalling the little moments.  I'm kinda glad I didn't because I'm really excited about this modification! I think it is a great way to remind myself that one misstep doesn't undo months of progress.

This morning I got to add "Went to the gym by myself when I had an excuse not to go." to my vase.  That's a big one! I burned a lot of calories and got some much needed teyie-time.  I don't want to lose sight of what an accomplishment that is when I am faced with a situation that challenges my goals. 

What do you do to stop the negative inner voice?