Something we already knew - thinking about someone with good self-control boosts our own self-control.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34881243...alth-behavior/

This is one reason why hanging out here is so important - especially reading the success stories, which include people who are successfully staying on their eating plans, exercising, as well as those who are maintaining. (I check the maintainers forum everyday for new role model heroes.)

Ooh, I like that! I *love* to read posts by Chicks who are further down the weight loss path than I am, and I do feel as if they influence me

Absolutely - social networking for a like cause is very very effective.

I love you guys!

Years ago I went to Weight Watchers. I was one of the people who loved the meetings. This is like that, only it is the whole world, in that room, and we don't need a leader because we all help and encourage each other.

How interesting, especially the part about how being around people who have positive or negative self-control impacts a person's behavior. I know staying on plan is most difficult when I'm with my two best friends who are both obese. And I know that I have had an easier go of it since my husband jumped aboard.

3FC keeps me level. I need to see both the ups and the downs. The ups remind me that I can do this too, and the downs let me know that I'm not the only one who has bumps now and then.

Just reinforces even more why I think Ya'll are so freakin awesome!

interesting - and yes, definitely a reason why this place is so valuable!

Well said!

I definitely would have fallen off the wagon had it not been for 3FC. I've found a lot of support, but I've also found a lot of education. I've never dieted before - I've lost tons of weight, but it was always on accident and not because I set out to lose it - so I was clueless at where to start and what to do. I'm very greatful for having found it!

It is great to know that when my physical friends are not too helpful in this journey, my online friends give the support and strength that I need.

Hey, I agree ladies. You all are so good for me. I feel positive vibes every time I come. They are coming right back to each and every one of you. Together we can get through this. 3FC has absolutely been paramount in my weightloss efforts. Before I was a member here I was at another WL website but it was so sleepy--like an old folks home--so humdrum. I feel just the opposite here--this is almost like a great big ole' weightloss party on the web! LOL--except we are only serving healthy stuff for the nibbles!

Oh, and I agree about seeing the ups and downs. It really helps. I am really finding my balance and "getting" that this is a lifestyle change and a true journey.

I agree too about seeing the ups and downs. If I only saw ups, I would feel like I am the only one who struggles!

I peek at the Maintainer's Forum all the time just to prove it's possible--folks here are so encouraging.

But "more research is needed"??? Didn't our Mamas tell us this?

On the other hand, does this mean my DH's food choices would be even worse if I weren't around to be a good example?? Shudder..........

Sometimes it's a big thought that someone shares that really resonates with me, but other times, just a phrase that sticks with me. I remember someone using the phrase about "pulling up big girl panties" in reference to acting like an adult instead of giving in to toddler-like demands of emotional eating and/or not sticking to plan. I've actually reached down and pulled on the waist of my still-bigger-than-I'd like undies to stop reaching for something in the grocery store that I shouldn't. Hope no one's looking, but it works for me!