The biggest lesson I learnt was saying no to dieting. I would stop myself from eating most of the things I had done previously, but it didn't help me it all. I was left feeling tired and hungry constantly, which made me realise this wasn't the way forward.

Of course I cut down on chocolate, sweets and fizzy drinks and replaced them with healthy snacks, but I didn't cut them out completely. I still have a pizza for tea with a can of coke every now and again, and there's nothing wrong with that.

When you try cut something out completely, you will crave it so much more, and it will become harder and harder to resist temptation. If or when you finally do give it, you will feel so guilty for doing so and it comes as a massive confidence knock. When instead you can indulge in the odd treat every now and again whilst still maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle.

I personally chose to start calorie counting instead. This may or may not work for other people, and this is completely fine. But for me, I have so far lost a stone through doing this, and I'm extremely happy with that. If I finish work and fancy a burger, I'll have one. Providing I haven't consumed many calories that day. If I've already had a lot, I won't have one. This way I still get to satisfy cravings without cutting things out completely, but I still have the ability to turn things down if I probably shouldn't have it that day. 

It would be pointless me calorie counting if I was going to give in every day and eat what I wanted for tea, but if I can afford to eat it then there is nothing wrong with doing so. If I can't, then being able to turn it down and replace it for something healthier, keeps you motivated and you're less likely to give in. The more you give in, the harder it will get to say no, and you'll eventually find yourself back to square one.

I can well and truly say that I am happy with the way I eat! There are lots of people out there that eat healthier and exercise way more than I do, but it's all about finding the balance and way of doing things which is right for you. Something that works for you, may not work for me and vice versa. We're all different.

Beth x