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Re:Why Calorie Counts Are All Wrong by mikeash on Monday August 17, 2015 @12:00PM (#10073884)
> get your desires under control

OK... got any specific tips for that part? Because you've done the diet equivalent of saying "just go really fast" when describing how to get into orbit.

Re:Why Calorie Counts Are All Wrong by throw7 on Monday August 17, 2015 @02:19PM (#10075010)
It's different for everyone, because everyone is different. I'm not trying to be cute. Somehow, you need to find that in yourself. That spark can come from anywhere though.

We (tech people) live such sedentary lifestyles that I'd suggest just a direct command of 1. WORK OUT (at least 20minutes of raised heartbeat each day) and 2. EAT WELL (whole foods/balanced/non-processed diet)... Are you doing this now? Well, get off your lazy ASS and BIG BELLY and JUST DO IT! :)

Re:Why Calorie Counts Are All Wrong by mikeash on Monday August 17, 2015 @02:28PM (#10075083)
You're totally right that everyone is different and there's no One True Solution here. Which, I guess, is kind of what I was trying to point out.

I think your 1 and 2 are excellent bits of advice, even if convincing yourself to maintain them in the long term can be tough.

Re:Why Calorie Counts Are All Wrong by angersock on Monday August 17, 2015 @12:12PM (#10074001)
Interesting analogy...both problems involve large bodies. :)
Re:Why Calorie Counts Are All Wrong by rancur on Monday August 17, 2015 @12:23PM (#10074098)
start with what Jesus said. 'Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.'
Re:Why Calorie Counts Are All Wrong by mikeash on Monday August 17, 2015 @12:30PM (#10074158)
I'm afraid that's even worse. I have a much harder time willing myself into believing in Yahweh than I have willing myself into not eating that extra slice of cake.
Re:Why Calorie Counts Are All Wrong by rancur on Monday August 17, 2015 @12:44PM (#10074286)
sorry to hear that. both work great for me
Re:Why Calorie Counts Are All Wrong by mikeash on Monday August 17, 2015 @12:53PM (#10074362)
Different ability to exert willpower is part of natural human variation. Don't assume your personal experience makes for an accurate baseline.

However, I would not count being able to will yourself into believing things as a good thing!

Re:Why Calorie Counts Are All Wrong by rancur on Tuesday August 18, 2015 @12:31AM (#10077610)
keep telling yourself that. Powerful people take responsibility. Chapter 7.
Re:Why Calorie Counts Are All Wrong by mikeash on Tuesday August 18, 2015 @10:38AM (#10079401)
Take responsibility for what?

For what I eat? Sure.

For failing to think that the myths of a certain group of Levantine tribes are not literal truth? That's not the sort of thing one needs to or even can "take responsibility" for.