Let me just start by saying: I love carbs. Bread, pasta, rice, - don’t even get me started on croissants. For the longest time, trying to lose weight felt like a constant war between my goals and my cravings. And the worst part? Every time I “failed,” I’d spiral into guilt and shame, which just made me want comfort food more.
But things started to change when I stopped looking at this like a willpower issue and started approaching it holistically.
1. I Got Curious, Not Judgmental
Instead of berating myself for craving carbs, I began asking why. Was I tired? Anxious? Bored? Avoiding something? Most of the time, the craving wasn’t really about the food. It was about needing a break, comfort, or even just hydration.
Now, when a craving hits, I pause and check in with myself:
What am I really hungry for?
Sometimes it’s rest. Sometimes it’s reassurance. And sometimes, yes, it’s just a craving - but at least I’m responding consciously now.
2. I Feed My Body, Not Just Restrict It
One of the biggest mental shifts was realizing that the more I restrict, the more my brain fixates. So I stopped demonizing carbs. I include whole, fiber-rich carbs in my meals, quinoa, sweet potatoes, fruit, and yes, even bread now and then. The difference is, I pair them with protein, healthy fats, and veggies so they actually satisfy me instead of setting off a blood sugar rollercoaster.
The guilt is gone because nothing is “off-limits.” That’s freedom.
3. I Created Rituals Instead of Rules
This was a big one. Rules feel rigid. Rituals feel grounding.
Now I start my day with a short prayer or quiet time, a glass of water, and a nourishing breakfast. I light a candle before dinner. I journal when I’m feeling overwhelmed. These small things keep me grounded and remind me that this isn’t just about weight, it’s about wholeness.
4. I Stopped Trying to Do It Alone
I began opening up about my struggles to friends, to my husband, and even to God. It felt vulnerable at first, but it reminded me that healing happens in connection, not isolation.
I also started following people who talked about food and weight from a grace-based perspective - not shame. That alone changed everything.
5. I Celebrate Wins That Have Nothing to Do With the Scale
Did I say no to a binge and take a walk instead? That’s a win.
Did I eat mindfully and stop when I was full? Win.
Did I show kindness to myself after a hard day? Big win.
Weight loss is not the only sign of progress. Mental peace, emotional clarity, and restored confidence? Those are the real milestones.
I’m still on this journey. Some days are easier than others. But more and more, I’m learning that overcoming the urge to overeat carbs isn’t about white-knuckling through temptation. It’s about listening to myself, nourishing my body, and giving myself permission to grow slowly - with grace.
And you know what? That feels like real success.