|
Syosset, New York - If you own a dog or have kids at home, you're more
likely to make a New Year's diet resolution than if you own a cat or have
no kids. And if you make that resolution, you'll probably comply better if
you're compassionate, social, manage time well, have a good memory and
seek personal growth.
Those are just some of the fascinating findings of a nationwide survey of
600 people on dieting habits conducted by Executive Solutions.
"People with children and dogs may have more demands on them than
childless people or owners of low maintenance cats," said Glenn
Livingston, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist and CEO of Executive Solutions.
"Those demands may push them to eat more for comfort - especially around
the holidays - and feel more pressure afterwards to undo their "sins.'"
The study revealed that of the 38 percent of the population that makes
dieting New Year's resolutions, about one in five will succeed long-term.
"One important element of success is compassion, particularly for oneself
in allowing for slip-ups without being overly punitive," said Dr.
Livingston.
"Another is being social and dependable. Resolution "winners" often join a
group or commit to dieting with a buddy.
"Managing time well is another key, because time-stressed people often
grab whatever food is convenient, not what's best."
Good memory and observation skills help, too - remembering what you ate
and when, pinpointing food triggers and consciously avoiding situations
that prompt overeating.
Those who "explore their inner life" by reading self-help books, taking
classes, analyzing their dreams, doing yoga or relaxation training more
easily deflect thoughts of eating and fill up dangerous "boredom" moments
with activity rather than food, the study showed.
"If these traits aren't "you," don't despair," said Dr. Livingston.
"Instead of making a dieting New Year's resolution, resolve to work on the
qualities of winners so when you do diet, you're more likely to succeed."
For a free dieting personality analysis, including your odds of success
with a New Year's resolution, log onto www.DietTypes.com. For a detailed
survey report, go to: www.DietTypes.com/NYR.htm.
Executive Solutions is a full-service international marketing research
firm established in 1984 which specializes in the latest qualitative and
quantitative research methods and counts numerous Fortune 500 companies as
clients.
| 
